Strokes can affect anyone, at any time, and often when it’s least expected. This May, during Stroke Awareness Month, University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC) is raising awareness across the community, helping residents recognize the warning signs and understand the importance of acting fast.
Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States experience a stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Strokes are a leading cause of serious disability and death, but quick action can make a life-saving difference.
Why Early Action Matters
When it comes to strokes, time is critical. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of survival and recovery. Knowing what to look for can help protect brain function and improve outcomes.
Stroke symptoms often appear suddenly and may include:
- Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side
- Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
- Trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance
- Severe headache with no known cause
If you notice any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away. Immediate medical attention is essential.
UMC Efforts
This May, UMC is raising awareness in a unique way—one mile at a time.
The UMC Mobile Stroke Unit will be making stops across the city throughout Stroke Awareness Month, helping educate the community while also providing advanced, on-the-spot care when needed.
This specialized ambulance is equipped with a 16-slice CT scanner, allowing the care team to quickly capture detailed images of the brain. With this technology, providers can assess patients in real-time and begin critical treatment before arriving at the hospital.
The Mobile Stroke Unit team collects scans and patient data, which are immediately transmitted to neuroscientists. These specialists determine the type of stroke a patient is experiencing, allowing doctors to deliver the most appropriate, life-saving treatment as quickly as possible.
By bringing this level of care directly into the community, UMC is helping reduce treatment times and improve outcomes for patients across El Paso.
Stroke Awareness Month is a reminder that knowledge can save lives. Understanding the signs, acting quickly, and knowing that advanced care is available can make all the difference in an emergency.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At UMC, our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
