The two major types of stroke are ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke.
Understanding Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die rapidly. Knowing the type of stroke is critical for determining the appropriate treatment.
Ischemic Stroke
An ischemic stroke is the most common type. It happens when an artery supplying blood to the brain becomes blocked, significantly reducing blood flow.
- Cause: Blockage of an artery (or, in rare instances, a vein).
- Prevalence: About 87% of all strokes are ischemic.
This blockage is often caused by a blood clot or a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks, causing bleeding into the surrounding brain tissue.
- Cause: Bleeding within or around the brain.
- Prevalence: About 13% of all strokes are hemorrhagic.
This bleeding can damage brain cells and increase pressure on the brain.
Comparing Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Strokes
Understanding the fundamental difference in cause and frequency is important.
| Feature | Ischemic Stroke | Hemorrhagic Stroke |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Blockage of a blood vessel | Bleeding from a blood vessel |
| Prevalence | Approx. 87% of strokes | Approx. 13% of strokes |
| Mechanism | Lack of blood flow to the brain | Blood leakage into brain tissue |
Recognizing the signs of any type of stroke and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for better outcomes.
