How Riverside's Neurology Specialists Act Fast to Treat Strokes

A stroke can happen suddenly — and when it does, every second counts. Kendra Pauley, FNP-C, a nurse practitioner with Riverside Neurology Specialists, shares how to recognize the warning signs, lower your risk, and understand the stroke care available right here in our community.

Understanding What a Stroke Is

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain becomes interrupted. Pauley explains that there are two main types:

• Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery.
• Hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain.

To help people remember the signs of a stroke, Riverside teaches the BE FAST method:

• B for Balance — trouble walking
• E for Eyes — blurred or double vision
• F for Face — drooping on one side
• A for Arms — weakness or numbness
• S for Speech — slurred or hard to understand
• T for Time — call 911 immediately

"Don't wait," Pauley warns. "There are medicines we can give if you're in a certain timeframe. Call 911 right away."

Reducing Stroke Risk

Many stroke risk factors are tied to overall health. Pauley emphasizes that controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes plays a key role. Smoking and obesity also greatly increase stroke risk.

"Diet and exercise can help," she says. "And quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to protect your brain and heart."

What Happens When You Arrive at the Hospital

When someone arrives at Riverside's ER with stroke symptoms, care begins immediately. Ambulance crews notify the emergency department in advance so the team is ready. "The ER doctor meets them at the door for a quick evaluation. Then, the patient goes straight to a CT scan," Pauley notes. The scan helps doctors rule out brain bleeding.

Riverside also partners with Rush TeleNeurology, giving patients instant access to specialists who help determine whether they qualify for clot-busting medication. This treatment can restore blood flow and limit brain damage when given quickly.

Stroke Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After the emergency phase, Riverside's neurology team works with patients to identify risk factors and prevent another stroke. "It's a lot of education on preventative measures," Pauley shares — including prescribing the right medications and supporting lifestyle changes for long-term health.

Riverside Rehabilitation and Therapy provides therapy to help stroke survivors regain strength, mobility, and independence. Having this care close to home matters. "They're not traveling up north or down south," Pauley assures. "If they're in rehab for a few weeks, family can still visit without worrying about traffic or long drives."

Comprehensive Stroke Care in the Community

Riverside is a Primary Stroke Center, meeting national standards for stroke diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. "We can give the clot-busting medicine and don't have to ship patients out," Pauley states. In rare cases where a large vessel blockage requires surgery, Riverside coordinates quick transfers for advanced procedures — but most care can be provided right here in Kankakee.

The Most Important Message: Time Is Brain

Pauley's biggest takeaway is simple: act fast. "If you notice signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately," she urges. "Don't wait or think it will go away. The longer you wait, the more brain tissue is dying."

People often hesitate because they don't want to "waste anyone's time" — but it's always better to be safe. "We'd rather you come in and let us check you out."

Recognizing stroke symptoms and getting to Riverside's Emergency Room could make all the difference. To learn more about Riverside Neurology Specialists, visit our Neurology Specialists page.