There are several types of strokes, each with different causes and effects. The three main types of stroke are:
Ischemic Stroke Ischemic stroke is a type of stroke that accounts for about 83 percent of all cases, according to the American Stroke Association. Ischemic strokes occur as a result of an obstruction within a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain.
This blockage may stem from several sources, including clots from the heart or legs, plaque from the valves of the heart or other blood vessels. If a clot or plaque breaks free and travels to the brain, stroke occurs. An ischemic stroke can occur in two ways:
embolic and thrombotic strokes.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) A TIA is sometimes called a '”mini-stroke.” It is usually due to a blockage caused by platelets clumping together. After a short period of time, these clumps break up, allowing the blood flow to resume. Most symptoms resolve in 24 hours. Having experienced a TIA increases the chance that a patient will experience a full-blown stroke. It is important to determine the cause of the symptoms and thereby reduce the risk of stroke.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for about 17 percent of stroke cases, according to the American Stroke Association. In hemorrhagic strokes, a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures. Hemorrhagic stroke can be caused by a number of disorders which affect the blood vessels, including arteriosclerosis and long-standing high blood pressure. Two types of weakened blood vessels usually cause hemorrhagic stroke:
aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations(AVMs).
Learn more about: What is a Stroke? Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke Stroke Effects and Evaluation Stroke Treatment Stroke Prevention
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