Although stroke is common among older adults, many people younger than 65 also have strokes. In fact, about one in seven strokes occur in adolescents and young adults ages 15 to 49, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Knowing the warning signs of a stroke can help save lives. Identifying a stroke is one of the most proactive steps to combat it. "B.E. F.A.S.T." is an easy way to remember how to identify and respond if you suspect someone is having a stroke:
- Balance: Are you experiencing a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
- Eyes: Are you having a sudden change in vision or trouble seeing?
- Face: Is one side of your face drooping?
- Arms: Can you raise both arms? Does one drift downward?
- Speech: Are words slurred? Can you repeat back a simple sentence?
- Time: Time is crucial. If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911.
Understanding Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to or within the brain. This condition requires immediate emergency care so blood flow can be restored and long-term damage can be minimized.
There are two main types of stroke. Ischemic stroke is a cerebrovascular accident that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, depriving it of oxygen and other nutrients. This is the most common type, making up about 87% of all strokes.
Hemorrhagic stroke: This is when a blood vessel leaks or bursts, causing blood to pool in or around the brain, which can lead to brain damage.
Conditions that increase your risk include:
- A previous stroke, "mini-stroke," or heart attack (one in four stroke survivors have another stroke within five years)
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Atrial fibrillation (fast, irregular heartbeat)
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Sickle Cell Disease
Advanced stroke treatments at Sky Ridge Medical Center
The Sky Ridge emergency department has specialized teams ready to treat patients with stroke symptoms 24/7.
Recognized nationally for stroke care, our emergency care physicians and neurologists work hand-in-hand to provide fast, lifesaving treatment. We use advanced telemedicine technology to allow patients with stroke symptoms to be assessed almost instantly by a neurologist specializing in stroke care.
Additionally, Sky Ridge participates in the Stroke Alert Program, which HealthONE developed in partnership with local emergency medical services (EMS). Stroke Alert allows our physicians and EMS agencies to work together to provide seamless stroke care.
Sky Ridge is the first Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center in Colorado. The American Heart Association recognized us with the Get with the Guidelines-Stroke Gold Plus Honor Roll Elite Award. Sky Ridge has earned additional national recognition for its care and treatment of stroke patients, including:
America's 100 Best Hospitals for Stroke Care Award™ (2023, 2022)
Superior clinical outcomes in the care and treatment of stroke
Neurosciences Excellence Award™ (2023, 2022)
Superior clinical outcomes in stroke care and cranial neurosurgery
Stroke Care Excellence Award™ (2021)
Superior clinical outcomes in the care and treatment of stroke
Sky Ridge Medical Center Celebrates 20 Years of Service
Since its opening in 2003, Sky Ridge has grown into a 284-bed destination hospital with a reputation for clinical excellence and world-class service. Sky Ridge offers compassionate care through patient-centered programs.
For more information about the Neurological care at Sky Ridge Medical Center, please call (720) 225-5362 or visit HealthONEcares.com/specialties/neurological-care.
10101 RidgeGate Parkway
Lone Tree, CO 80124
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