Stroke

Call 911 in case of an emergency.

Elderly man sits next to his wife on a park bench, with a hand on her shoulder
Elderly man sits next to his wife on a park bench, with a hand on her shoulder

Stroke care can’t wait

Capable of happening to anyone at any time, a stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Because it can lead to brain damage, it is essential to be seen quickly by our multidisciplinary team of specialists.

The first in Michigan to offer Vivistim® Paired VNS™ therapy, Corewell Health’s Comprehensive Stroke Centers provide advanced diagnostics and treatments you may not find anywhere else. Our experts can help you overcome ischemic stroke (caused by a clot), a hemorrhagic stroke (caused by bleeding), as well as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke.”

The warning signs

If you or someone you know may be experiencing a stroke, remember to BE FAST.

BE FAST

Balance

Look for sudden loss of balance or coordination

Eyes

Vision problems in one or both eyes

Face

Drooping or uneven face (ask the person to smile)

Arms

Weakness or numbness in one arm (ask the person to raise both arms)

Speech

Slurred speech (ask the person to repeat a simple sentence)

Time

Call 911 immediately if any symptoms appear

Ways to prevent stroke

When it comes to stroke, there are things you simply can’t control, including age, family history, or a previous stroke or heart condition. However, 80% of strokes are preventable. Areas you can work on include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, lack of exercise, and diabetes. For everything from stress management to leading an active lifestyle, check out our Wellness & Lifestyle Resources page.

Diagnosis and treatments

Comprehensive stroke expertise across Corewell Health

Corewell Health is nationally recognized for excellence in stroke care, with two hospitals — Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals -Butterworth Hospital and Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak — designated as Comprehensive Stroke Centers by The Joint Commission. These centers offer advanced treatments like clot-busting medications, thrombectomy, and pioneering therapies such as Vivistim® Paired VNS™ and neurostimulation for improved recovery. Additionally, 13 Corewell Health hospitals have earned Primary Stroke Center certification, reflecting a systemwide commitment to evidence-based care that saves lives and shortens recovery.

The Joint Commission and American Heart Association comprehensive stroke center certification badges

Need deeper understanding?

Speak with a specialist to learn more or get a second opinion to confirm a diagnosis or to validate treatment.