A stroke, sometimes called a "brain attack," occurs when blood flow to an area in the brain is cut off. The brain cells, deprived of the oxygen and glucose needed to survive, die. If not caught early, permanent brain damage can result.
Recommended Related to Heart Disease
Endocarditis, Infective
Important It is possible that the main title of the report Endocarditis, Infective is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.
Read the Endocarditis, Infective article > >
What Are the Types of Stroke?
There are two types of stroke.
- Ischemic strokeis similar to a heart attack, except it occurs in the blood vessels of the brain. Clots can form either in the brain's blood vessels, in blood vessels leading to the brain, or even blood vessels elsewhere in the body which then travel to the brain. These clots block blood flow to the brain's cells. Ischemic stroke can also occur when too much plaque (fatty deposits and cholesterol) clogs the brain's blood vessels. About 80% of all strokes are of this nature.
- Hemorrhagic (heh-more-raj-ik) strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain breaks or ruptures. The result is blood seeping into the brain tissue, causing damage to brain cells. The most common causes of hemorrhagic stroke are high blood pressure and brain aneurysms. An aneurysm is a weakness or thinness in the blood vessel wall.
What Are the Symptoms of a Stroke?
The most common symptoms of a stroke are:
- Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.
- Loss of vision or dimming (like a curtain falling) in one or both eyes.
- Loss of speech, difficulty talking or understanding what others are saying.
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
- Loss of balance or unstable walking, usually combined with another symptom.
What Should I Do If I Experience Stroke Symptoms?
Immediately call 911 if you or someone you know shows the symptoms of a stroke. Stroke is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment can save your life or increase the chances of a full recovery.
Are Strokes Preventable?
Up to 50% of all strokes are preventable. Many risk factors for stroke can be controlled before they cause problems.