Inova Health System Holds Screenings Throughout May For Stroke Awareness Month

Learn the Risk Factors and Signs of Stroke

Falls Church, VA – (May 9, 2011) – Inova Health System is offering free screenings and stroke education throughout the month of May, which is National Stroke Awareness Month. Since time is critical in stroke treatment, recognizing the signs of a stroke can save a life. The faster a stroke patient gets to the emergency room, the better chance for a positive outcome.

The public is welcome to stop by at the following locations during May to learn about the risk factors and signs of stroke:

Mondays:
Inova Fair Oaks Hospital, Atrium
3600 Joseph Siewick Drive, Fairfax, VA

Tuesdays:
Inova Alexandria Hospital, Visitors Entrance Lobby
4320 Seminary Road, Alexandria, VA

Wednesdays:
Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, Main Lobby
2501 Parkers Lane, Alexandria, VA

Thursdays:
Inova Fairfax Hospital, Atrium
3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA

Fridays:
Inova Loudoun Hospital, Cafeteria Alcove
44045 Riverside Parkway, Leesburg, VA

Inova Alexandria, Inova Fairfax, Inova Loudoun and Inova Mount Vernon hospitals are designated as Primary Stroke Centers by The Joint Commission. This Gold Seal of Approval™ recognizes facilities that make exceptional efforts to meet the unique needs of stroke patients and foster better outcomes for stroke care.

Stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is blocked or bursts. Without oxygen, that part of the brain starts to die, and can cause sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, dizziness or a sudden severe headache. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. On average, someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds.

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency- and urgent-care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.