Stroke Center

Knowing these warning signs may help save a life.

The Warning Signs of Stroke

The signs or symptoms of a stroke appear suddenly:

• Feeling Numb or weak on one side of the body, can't move one arm, or face, mouth drops to one side
• Difficulty understanding others when they speak or being able to speak clearly
• Difficulty walking, feeling dizzy or falling
• Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
• Extreme headache

Should you or someone you know experience these symptoms call 911 immediately.

In the United States, stroke is the third leading cause of death behind heart disease and cancer. It is the leading cause of long-term disability.

For individuals fortunate enough to live in the Polk, Highlands and Hardee county area, Winter Haven Hospital has recently been designated as this area’s only JCAHO accredited Stroke Center. Since the first three hours of a stroke are the most critical for patient recovery, the Florida Legislature established this program to encourage Hospitals to become regional resources for their communities. Now patients who have stroke symptoms can be routed as quickly as possible to Primary Stroke Centers like Winter Haven Hospital.

For a free board certified physician referral, please call the Winter Haven Hospital Health Connection at 863-291-6705 or 1-800-416-6705.