COVID-19: What a stroke specialist wants you to know

Dr. Richard H. Swartz is a stroke neurologist in Toronto
Dr. Richard H. Swartz is a stroke neurologist in Toronto

If you’ve had a stroke in the past, or you’re at risk, you may be extra worried about your health right now. Can busy emergency departments care for stroke patients? Does this novel coronavirus more seriously affect people who’ve had strokes?

Dr. Richard H.Swartz, a stroke neurologist with Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centres in Toronto, shares his insights into how to best care for yourself at this difficult time.

Stroke is a medical emergency. If you experience any signs of stroke — facial droop, weakness on one side, you can’t lift both arms, slurred or jumbled speech — call 9-1-1. Don’t hesitate. COVID-19 is not a reason to avoid seeking treatment for stroke. Even if your symptoms go away, you need medical care to reduce the chances of another, larger stroke. Dedicated stroke professionals are on duty in hospitals to help you. They know how to protect stroke patients from the virus.

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Publishing this article in no way serves as an endorsement from NWO Regional Stroke Network. The NWO Regional Stroke Network does not verify the veracity of information in this item and any views expressed are of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of NWO Regional Stroke Network​