Our Services


 *Center of Excellence

Stroke Center Next Steps

Stroke Center

The first three hours after a stroke are critical. That’s when a stroke victim can be evaluated and given a clot-busting drug if necessary. But even stroke victims who’ve missed the three-hour window can be assured they will receive advanced care in Norman Regional’s dedicated stroke care unit.

Stroke Center

Norman Regional Health System has earned the Gold Seal of Approval™ from The Joint Commission for Primary Stroke Centers for the second year in a row. The Gold Seal of Approval is a clear sign that Norman Regional is compliant with the most stringent standards of performance.

Stroke is the nation’s third leading cause of death. Each year about 700,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke. On average, someone suffers a stroke every 45 seconds. Someone dies of a stroke every three minutes. With urgent and immediate care from providers like Norman Regional, people can survive and go on to live happy, healthy lives.

For symptoms of stroke to be aware of, click here.

Mission:

To provide multidisciplinary stroke care to all persons in our region - and regions to the south, to include prevention, treatment and rehabilitation with a commitment to excellence, integrity and compassion.

Vision:

Nationally recognized as a leader in stroke outcomes and rehabilitation. Most trusted resource for the outlying communities in our region for stroke education, innovation and evidence-based care and rehabilitation.

Definitions:

Ischemic stroke – An ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when blood clots or other particles block arteries to the brain which causes reduced blood flow. This deprives the brain of oxygen and nutrients and brain cells may begin to die within minutes.

Hemorrhagic stroke – Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks. This can result from a number of conditions including uncontrolled high blood pressure and weak spots in your blood vessels.

Risk factors for stroke include:

  • Family history of stroke
  • Undesirable levels of blood cholesterol
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Elevated homocysteine level
  • A previous stroke
  • Your risk of stroke increases as you age.

Stroke affects men and women equally, but women are more likely to die of stroke than men.

Blacks are at a greater risk of stroke than most other races, due partly to a higher prevalence of high blood pressure and diabetes.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis for your face, arm or leg, usually on one side of your body
  • Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden blurred, double or decreased vision
  • Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or loss of coordination
  • A sudden, severe headache or an unusual headache, which may be accompanied by a stiff neck, facial pain, pain between the eyes, vomiting or altered consciousness
  • Confusion, problems with memory, spatial orientation or perception

If you or someone you are with experience any of these symptoms seek emergency care immediately by calling 911 or being taken to the hospital.