A stroke is a serious medical event that can have lasting effects on an individual’s health and quality of life. It occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients. When this happens, brain cells can begin to die within minutes.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen-rich blood to function properly. When this blood flow is disrupted, brain cells in the affected area are deprived of oxygen and can become damaged or die. This damage can lead to a loss of functions controlled by that part of the brain. The extent of the impact depends on the location and severity of the blood flow interruption. There are different types of strokes, each with distinct causes.
What Are the Different Types?
An ischemic stroke is the most common type, accounting for the majority of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery that leads to the brain. These blood clots often form in other parts of the body and travel through the bloodstream to the brain. They can also form directly in the arteries that supply blood to the brain.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures. This bleeding can result from several conditions that affect blood vessels, including uncontrolled high blood pressure and aneurysms. The leaked blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, causing damage.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is sometimes referred to as a “warning stroke.” It is caused by a temporary blockage in blood flow to the brain. The symptoms of a TIA are similar to those of a stroke, but are temporary. A TIA serves as a warning sign that a person is at risk for a future, more severe stroke.
What Are the Symptoms?
Recognizing the signs of a stroke is key for receiving prompt medical attention. The symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include a variety of physical and cognitive changes. A common method for remembering the main symptoms is the acronym F.A.S.T.:
- F – Face: Facial drooping, often on one side. Asking the person to smile can make this apparent.
- A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm. If the person tries to raise both arms, one may drift downward.
- S – Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty being understood. The person may also struggle to understand others.
- T – Time: Time to call for emergency medical services immediately if any of these symptoms are observed.
Other symptoms may include a sudden, severe headache with no apparent cause, confusion, or difficulty walking. The specific symptoms a person experiences depend on which part of the brain is affected.
Speak With a Neurology Expert
After a stroke, a neurologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the extent of the brain injury and develop a personalized recovery plan. Neurologists also work to identify the cause of the stroke and may prescribe medications or recommend lifestyle modifications to help prevent a future event. Long-term management by a neurology specialist is a component of recovery and future health maintenance.