Comprehensive Stroke Care

What is a Stroke?

A stroke happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures in the brain. As a result, part of the brain does not get the oxygen it needs, so it starts to die. 

The human brain is divided into several areas that control movement and sensory function, or how the body moves and feels. When a stroke damages a certain part of the brain, that area may no longer work as well as it did before the stroke. This can cause problems with walking, speaking, seeing, or feeling.

Stroke Education Booklet

Recognize the Symptoms of a Stroke

When it comes to stroke, every second matters. Quick action can save a life and reduce long-term disability. Use the B.E. F.A.S.T. test to spot the warning signs:

• B - Balance: Does the person have sudden difficulty with balance or walking?
• E - Eyes: Does the person have sudden loss of vision, double vision, or difficulty seeing to one side?
• F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• A – Arms: Ask them to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• S – Speech: Ask them to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
• T – Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

Even if symptoms go away, it may have been a warning sign of a serious stroke. Don’t wait. Seek emergency care right away.

Learn more about the signs of a stroke.

Stroke Care at East Alabama Health

When every second counts, our team at East Alabama Health provides rapid, expert stroke care from the moment you arrive. 

• 24/7 stroke team and emergency response protocol
• Primary Stroke Center (East Alabama Medical Center)
• Collaborative care: neurologists, emergency physicians, and stroke-certified rehab specialists.
• Seamless transition from emergency care to recovery to clinic follow ups. 

East Alabama Medical Center is a "Get With The Guidelines - Gold Plus" recipient

East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) has received the American Heart Association’s “Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus” designation for demonstrating commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate stroke care through following nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

Learn More

Hear from a Stroke Survivor

At East Alabama Health, every patient’s journey matters. Behind every number and outcome is a person, a family, and a story of resilience. Our stroke team is committed to providing not only expert medical care but also the compassion and support that make recovery possible. Hear firsthand from patients who have walked this path and discover how timely treatment, advanced therapies, and ongoing support have helped them regain independence and hope.

Stroke Symptoms & Risk Factors

Learn about common risk factors and practical steps you can take to reduce your chance of having a stroke.

Learn More

Stroke Recovery & Rehab

Individualized therapy programs including physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help you regain strength and independence.

Outpatient Stroke Care

Specialized follow-up and neurological care at the Neurology Center of East Alabama to support your recovery beyond the hospital

Learn More

Life After Stroke (Support & Resources)

Resources and support for survivors and caregivers, from recovery planning to community programs.

Other Resources:

• National Stroke Association (NSA)
  800-STROKES 
  www.stroke.org
   
• American Stroke Association (ASA)
  888-4-STROKE 
  www.strokeassociation.org
   
• Brain Attack Coalition (BAC)
  www.stroke-site.org
   
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
  https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/stroke/stroke-overview