Free stroke screening at BMHS in Lehighton

Blue Mountain Health System will recognize Stroke Awareness Month with free stroke screenings from 9:30 a.m. to noon May 5, in the second floor Next Step Acute Rehab Unit at the Gnaden Huetten campus, 211 N. 12th Street in Lehighton.

Daniel Yeager, MD, medical director of BMHS's Acute Rehabilitation Center, will screen participants for the presence of carotid bruits. Acute rehab staff will evaluate for elevated blood pressure and irregular heart rates and rhythms.

Participants will have the opportunity to review their personal stroke risk factors with health care professionals, followed by an individualized Action Plan to reduce risk of stroke.

The best treatment for stroke is prevention and knowing your personal risk factors is an important step in the process.

Participants may request a voucher for a free carotid doppler ultrasound to be performed at a future date. This is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the large carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain.

These arteries can become narrowed which can lead to transient ischemic attack (mini- stroke) or cerebral vascular accident (stroke). The test can help doctors determine stroke risk and the need for preventive measures.

Registration is required at 610-377-7070.