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Krembil Neuroscience Centre (KNC)
Neurovascular Disease- Stroke
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Toronto Western Hospital is a Regional Stroke Centre and provides the highest standards of acute stroke care. As a regional centre, the TWH stroke team also has strong partnerships with a variety of centres to ensure patients receive the full spectrum of care.
The goals of the stroke team at Toronto Western Hospital and the Ontario Stroke System are:
- Reduce the incidence of stroke
- Improve patient care and outcomes (reduce mortality and disability)
- Improve (timely) access to appropriate services
- Integrate/coordinate care across the continuum
Toronto Western Hospital is also designated as a regional secondary prevention site. The Stroke Prevention Clinic located in the Krembil Neuroscience Centre provides resources and education for individuals who are identified as being at a high risk for stroke.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The interruption of blood flow or the rupture of blood vessels causes brain cells in the affected area to die. The effects of a stroke depend on where the brain was injured, as well as how much damage occurred. A stroke can impact any number of areas including your ability to move, see, remember, speak, reason and read and write.
Five Signs of Stroke...
Stroke can be treated. That’s why it is so important to recognize and respond to the warning signs.
Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache.
Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
(Source: Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario)
