A new hotline allows Alberta physicians in rural and urban areas to consult with stroke neurologists if they suspect a patient is having a minor stroke or a transient ischemic attack.
It provides province-wide access to specialists in Edmonton and Calgary stroke centres to assist family physicians and health care providers to diagnose and determine immediate treatment for patients.
TIA is a condition where stroke symptoms quickly subside, but affected patients have a one in 10 risk of having a major stroke hours or days later.
In 2006, the Alberta government established a stroke network to strengthen stroke prevention programs, tele-health links, primary and comprehensive treatment centres and improved after-stroke care.
The five signs of stroke are weakness, trouble speaking, vision problems, headache and dizziness.
