Comprehensive stroke care in Anchorage, Alaska
Our medical center provides a full spectrum of stroke care, including diagnosis and treatment.
At Alaska Regional Hospital, we are dedicated to minimizing the impact of stroke and other neurological conditions. To do that, our specialists treat you and your loved one with personalized treatments and care.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Free health-related information is just a phone call away. Our nurses help you understand your symptoms, treatment options and procedures. They will also help you find a provider or specialist and schedule an appointment.
Stroke care and services
As Alaska's first DNV-certified Comprehensive Stroke Center, we are prepared to treat complicated stroke symptoms. Our staff maintains the highest level of competence for treatment of serious stroke events.
Advanced stroke care
A stroke is a medical emergency where blood flow to the brain is either reduced or stopped, depriving brain tissue of essential oxygen and nutrients. During a stroke you may experience loss in brain function, movement and speech.
After our emergency room (ER) stabilizes you or your loved one, we use the most advanced technology available in diagnosis and treatment.
Stroke treatment
A quick medical response can lower the risk of serious complications and disability from stroke. This can include tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), also known the "clot-busting" drug, which should be started within hours of the onset of symptoms.
Recognizing stroke symptoms
A stroke can have severe effects on cognitive abilities, such as speech, movement and memory. The faster you receive treatment, the better. It is important to be aware of critical stroke symptoms and how to recognize them.
Identify a stroke
Remember the acronym F.A.S.T., which stands for the following:
Facial weakness — Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
Arm or limb weakness — Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
Speech difficulty — Ask them to repeat a simple sentence. Do they sound strange, or do they slur their speech?
Time to call 911 — If any of these symptoms are present, call 911 immediately.
Remember the acronym F.A.S.T., which stands for the following:
Facial weakness — Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
Arm or limb weakness — Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
Speech difficulty — Ask them to repeat a simple sentence. Do they sound strange, or do they slur their speech?
Time to call 911 — If any of these symptoms are present, call 911 immediately.
Signs and symptoms of a stroke
Dr. David Cadogan, M.D., further discusses the signs and symptoms to look out for and how the fast action may prevent death or disability.