Introduction

A brainstroke, often referred to as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is alife-threatening medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a partof the brain is interrupted or reduced. This deprives brain tissue of oxygenand nutrients, causing brain cells to die within minutes. Strokes are one ofthe leading causes of death and disability worldwide, making it crucial tounderstand their causes, symptoms, and preventive measures.

This blogexplores the different types of strokes, risk factors, warning signs, treatmentoptions, and ways to reduce the risk of having a stroke.

Types of Brain Strokes

There arethree main types of strokes, each with distinct causes and implications:

1. Ischemic Stroke

Ischemicstrokes account for approximately 87% of all strokes. They occur when a bloodclot or other debris blocks blood flow to the brain. Common causes include:

• Thrombosis: Formation of a blood clot in an artery supplying the brain.
• Embolism: A clot or debris from another part of the body, such as the heart, travels to the brain.
• Atherosclerosis: Narrowing of the arteries due to fatty deposits (plaques), increasing the risk of blockages.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke

Ahemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading tobleeding in or around the brain. This type of stroke is often caused by:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Aneurysms (weak or bulging blood vessels)
• Head trauma
• Blood-thinning medications

3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Oftencalled a mini-stroke, a TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to thebrain that usually lasts for a few minutes to hours. Unlike major strokes, aTIA does not cause permanent damage, but it serves as a warning sign of apossible future stroke.

Causes and Risk Factors of Stroke

Severalfactors can increase the risk of having a stroke. Some of these factors are modifiable,while others are non-modifiable (beyond our control).

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

• Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, especially after 55.
• Genetics: Family history of strokes may increase the risk.
• Gender: Men have a higher risk of stroke than women, though women tend to have more severe strokes.
• Previous Stroke or TIA: A history of stroke or TIA raises the likelihood of future strokes.

Modifiable Risk Factors

• High blood pressure (Hypertension) – The leading cause of strokes.
• Smoking – Increases the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels.
• Diabetes – High blood sugar levels damage blood vessels over time.
• High cholesterol – Contributes to artery blockage.
• Obesity and physical inactivity – Increases the likelihood of stroke.
• Excessive alcohol consumption – Can elevate blood pressure and contribute to clot formation.
• Unhealthy diet – High sodium and processed foods contribute to hypertension.

Warning Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

Recognizingthe early signs of a stroke can save lives. The FAST acronym is ahelpful way to remember the warning signs:

• F – Face Drooping: One side of the face may droop or become numb.
• A – Arm Weakness: One arm may become weak or numb.
• S – Speech Difficulty: Slurred or difficult speech.
• T – Time to Call Emergency Services: Immediate medical attention is crucial.

Othersymptoms may include:

• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
• Loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes
• Severe headache with no known cause
• Dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking

Diagnosis and Treatment of Stroke

Diagnosis

Todetermine the type and severity of a stroke, medical professionals may perform:

• CT Scan: Identifies hemorrhages and other abnormalities.
• MRI Scan: Provides a detailed image of brain damage.
• Carotid Ultrasound: Checks for blockages in the carotid arteries.
• Echocardiogram: Evaluates heart function for clots.