BANGOR — New guidelines from the American Stroke Association recommend that select patients with acute ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot, may now safely receive a strong clot busting medication for up to 24 hours after symptoms begin.
“Following advanced brain imaging, we are pleased to be able to administer intravenous thrombolytic medication to certain patients experiencing an ischemic stroke during a much wider treatment window,” Avirag Goswami, MD, vascular neurologist, and director of Stroke Care at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, said. “The medication was traditionally limited to within 4.5 hours of symptom onset. Now advanced imaging allows us to identify patients who may still have salvageable brain tissue despite coming to the hospital later. With this extended treatment window, it is truly a game-changer for our patients.”
According to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the United States. That means someone suffers a stroke about every 40 seconds. During National Stroke Awareness Month, Northern Light Health encourages discussions with friends and family about the signs of stroke. To remember stroke symptoms, use the acronym BEFAST, which stands for:
Balance or coordination difficulties (sudden onset)
Eye (vision) changes
Face drooping
Arm or leg numbness or weakness
Speech or swallowing difficulties
Time to call 911
Why call 911? A stroke is a medical emergency, and EMS providers call ahead to the hospital to let the stroke team know a patient is coming in by ambulance. This sets a Code Stroke protocol in motion for expedited care.
“Sometimes patients are hesitant to call 911, but please don’t wait,” Angela Wheelden, BSN, RN, SCRN, nurse manager, Stroke Care, Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, said. “Time is of the essence to minimize brain damage. So, we want to help patients having a stroke as soon as we can. Timely response gives patients the best outcome.”
Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center is committed to providing evidence-based stroke care and is designated a Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission.
To learn more and find out about the next Stroke Support Group, visit northernlighthealth.org/stroke.
At Northern Light Health, we’re building a better approach to healthcare because we believe people deserve access to care that works for them. As an integrated health delivery system serving Maine, we’re raising the bar with no-nonsense solutions that are leading the way to a healthier future for our state. Our care team — in hospitals, primary and specialty care practices, long-term and home healthcare, behavioral healthcare, and ground and air medical transport and emergency care — are committed to making healthcare work for you: our patients, communities, and employees. To learn more about Northern Light Health and our locations across Maine, visit www.northernlighthealth.org.
