Recognizing the Signs of Stroke and the Importance of Fast Action
Every Aspirus hospital provides emergency stroke care across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota
10/29/2025
Dr. Fawzi Hindi, Aspirus Neurosurgeon
In recognition of World Stroke Day on October 29, Aspirus Health is raising awareness about the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking immediate care. Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States, affecting more than 795,000 people each year according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota, every Aspirus hospital has an Emergency Department equipped to identify and treat stroke symptoms quickly.
“Stroke care begins the moment a patient arrives at the Emergency Department,” said Fawzi Hindi, MD, Aspirus Neurosurgeon. “Our teams are trained to act fast, perform imaging, and start treatment immediately. Through our coordinated system and telemedicine support, we ensure that patients receive expert stroke care at every Aspirus location.”
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts. Recognizing symptoms early is key to limiting brain damage and improving recovery. Health experts use the acronym BE FAST to identify the signs of stroke:
- Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- Eyes: Blurred or double vision
- Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
- Arm: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
- Speech: Slurred or difficult speech
- Time: Call 911 immediately
Aspirus hospitals are part of a coordinated stroke network that connects Emergency Departments, imaging teams, and neurologists across the system. This structure ensures consistent, high-quality care close to home, supported by real-time specialist consultations through telemedicine.
“Stroke response depends on a team effort,” Dr. Hindi said. “Our hospitals use the same evidence-based approach to deliver rapid, effective treatment and coordinate advanced care when necessary.”
Aspirus Health’s systemwide approach to stroke care reflects its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality emergency response and treatment for patients throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota. For more information about stroke symptoms, prevention, and care, visit aspirus.org/stroke-care.
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