A stroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Understanding the four types of stroke, their causes, and warning signs can save lives and reduce long-term disability.
1. Ischemic Stroke (Most Common)
Ischemic strokes account for about 85% of all strokes. They happen when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot.
a. Thrombotic Stroke
This occurs when a clot forms inside an artery that supplies blood to the brain, often due to atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty deposits).
Risk factors include:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
b. Embolic Stroke
An embolic stroke happens when a clot forms elsewhere in the body (commonly the heart) and travels to the brain.
Common causes:
- Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation)
- Heart disease
- Recent heart surgery
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds, causing pressure and damage to brain tissue. Though less common, it is often more severe.
a. Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Bleeding occurs within the brain tissue itself.
Common causes:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Head injury
- Blood-thinning medications
b. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Bleeding happens in the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering it, often due to a ruptured aneurysm.
Warning signs may include:
- Sudden, severe headache (“worst headache of my life”)
- Neck stiffness
- Loss of consciousness
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA or “Mini-Stroke”)
A TIA is caused by a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Symptoms are similar to a stroke but resolve within minutes or hours and leave no permanent damage.
Important:
A TIA is a serious warning sign. Many people who have a TIA go on to have a major stroke within days or months if preventive care is not taken.
4. Cryptogenic Stroke
A cryptogenic stroke is one where no clear cause is identified, even after extensive testing. This type highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and lifestyle management.
Common Warning Signs of Stroke
Remember the acronym FAST:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services immediately
Other symptoms may include:
- Sudden confusion
- Loss of vision
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Severe headache with no known cause
Why Awareness Matters
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, but many strokes are preventable. Managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking significantly reduce risk.
Early recognition and quick medical attention can mean the difference between recovery, disability, and death.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of stroke empowers individuals and families to act quickly, reduce risk, and seek appropriate care. Whether ischemic, hemorrhagic, or transient, every stroke is a medical emergency that deserves immediate attention.
Awareness saves lives.
