The Stroke Center at Garfield Medical Center

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America and the leading cause of serious long-term disability. Every year, about 700,000 Americans suffer a new or recurrent stroke. "Brain attacks," as they are called, can be deadly, but by recognizing the symptoms and responding quickly, the impact of strokes can be minimized.

Garfield Medical Center is The Joint Commission certified and Los Angeles County Department of Health Services Emergency Medical Services Agency (EMS) approved Primary Stroke Receiving center. There are only 34 dedicated stroke centers in Los Angeles County. We are equipped with the latest technologies available, allowing us to provide efficient and meaningful treatment

Recognizing the First Signs of Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted by either a blood clot (ischemic) or a blood vessel bursting (hemorrhagic). When this occurs, brain cells in the immediate are begin to die because they no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to function.

Look for these warning signs for stroke:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the 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

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call 911 immediately. Getting help within three hours of the onset of symptoms is vital in order to prevent permanent damage and further brain cell loss. The sooner the condition is properly diagnosed and treated, the higher the chances you can emerge with positive results.

For more information about stroke and Garfield Medical Center's stroke program, please contact us.