Q. How does a brain stroke happen?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
A brain stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to a part of the brain. This disruption can happen in two main ways:
Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 85% of all cases. It occurs when a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain becomes blocked or narrowed, reducing blood flow to the brain. There are two primary causes of ischemic strokes:
a. Thrombotic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood clot forms within one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. These clots typically develop in areas where the arteries have become narrowed due to atherosclerosis (a buildup of fatty deposits on the artery walls).
b. Embolic Stroke: In this case, a blood clot or other debris forms elsewhere in the body (often in the heart) and travels through the bloodstream until it becomes lodged in a smaller artery within the brain. This can happen suddenly and without warning.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke is less common but more severe in terms of potential damage. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks, leading to bleeding within or around the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes are typically caused by:
a. Intracerebral Hemorrhage: This occurs when a blood vessel within the brain bursts, causing blood to spill into the surrounding brain tissue.
b. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: This type of stroke happens when there is bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin membrane that covers it (the subarachnoid space). It is often caused by the rupture of an aneurysm, which is a weak, bulging area in the wall of an artery.
The lack of oxygen and nutrients caused by either type of stroke can result in damage to brain cells, which can lead to various neurological symptoms, including weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, and even loss of consciousness.
The risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, a family history of stroke, and age. Recognizing the signs of stroke (such as sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden severe headache with no known cause) and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for minimizing the damage and improving the chances of recovery. Treatment options for stroke may include medication, surgery, or rehabilitation therapies, depending on the type and severity of the stroke.
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