Understanding Stroke Slideshow Pictures Take the Stroke Quiz

Stroke Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Stroke is a medical emergency and seconds count. Brain cells begin to die within 4 minutes of the beginning of a stroke. Call 911 for emergency medical transport to a hospital's emergency department.

• Current treatments for acute stroke must be given by a doctor and within a short time of the onset of symptoms. It is crucial for the person experiencing a stroke to get to the emergency department as quickly as possible to get the most benefit from any treatment.
  
  
• If you think you are having a stroke or someone with you is having a stroke, call 911.
  
  
  • Do not wait to see if symptoms go away.
    
    
  • Do not call your doctor.
    
    
  • Do not take aspirin. This will be given later if needed.
    
    
  • Do not drive yourself or wait for a ride to the hospital.