Stroke Center

The Stroke Center at Vassar Brothers Medical Center is a recognized as a Designated Stroke Center by the NYS Department of Health. New approaches to the treatment of stroke are saving more patients from potentially disabling effects; timing and clinical expertise are critical to ensuring the best possible results for each individual.

The acclaimed team at the Stroke Center is committed to providing the Mid-Hudson Valley with the highest level of care in the diagnosis and rehabilitation of stroke patients. This multidisciplinary team includes physicians, neurologists, RN's, dieticians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and case managers.

Rapid Diagnosis

When treating a stroke, every second counts. To obtain a rapid diagnosis, Vassar Brothers has a state-of-the-art 64-slice CAT Scanner located right inside the Emergency Department.

Stroke Support Group

Vassar Brothers also offers a Stroke Support Group for patients and family members. This group meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Please call (845) 483 - 6319 for more information.

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

If you or someone near you has one or more of the following symptoms, ACT NOW- Call 911 and get to a hospital immediately:

Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg - especially on one side of the body.
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding.
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Understanding Types of Stroke

Transient Ischemic Attack (TtA) is a "mini-stroke" that occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery for a short time. Symptoms usually last only a few minutes and may be early warning signs of a stroke.

Ischemic Stroke is when blood vessels become clogged or narrowed cutting off blood flow to brain cells. This is the most common type of stroke.

Hemorrhagic Stroke is when a blood vessel ruptures in or near the brain.

Prevention: Reducing Your Risk

The most important steps you can take to avoid a stroke are maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes the following factors: