There are several different types of strokes, each categorized based on its underlying cause and characteristics. The main types of stroke include:
- Ischemic Stroke: Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for approximately 85% of all strokes. They occur when there is a blockage or narrowing of a blood vessel, reducing or completely obstructing blood flow to the brain. The blockage is typically caused by a blood clot (thrombus) that forms within the blood vessel (thrombotic stroke) or travels from another part of the body and becomes lodged in a blood vessel supplying the brain (embolic stroke).
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Hemorrhagic strokes occur when there is bleeding in or around the brain. There are two main types of hemorrhagic strokes:a. Intracerebral Hemorrhage: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel within the brain ruptures and releases blood into the brain tissue. High blood pressure and structural abnormalities of blood vessels, such as aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), are common causes of intracerebral hemorrhage.b. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: This type of stroke involves bleeding in the subarachnoid space, which is the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering the brain. It often results from the rupture of an aneurysm, a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): TIAs are often referred to as “mini-strokes.” They occur when there is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs produce stroke-like symptoms that typically resolve within a short period, often within minutes to a few hours. Although transient, TIAs should not be ignored, as they can be warning signs of an impending stroke.
It’s important to note that strokes can have overlapping features, and a person may experience a combination of ischemic and hemorrhagic elements. In some cases, strokes can also be caused by other rare factors, such as arterial dissections (tears in the blood vessel walls), vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), or clotting disorders.
Prompt medical attention and proper diagnosis are crucial to determine the type of stroke and guide appropriate treatment. The specific type of stroke can influence the management approach and subsequent preventive measures.