22/09/2025
Stroke is a medical emergency that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die.
Types of Stroke
1. Ischemic Stroke
Caused by a blockage (blood clot) in a brain artery.
Most common type (about 80% of strokes).
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke
Caused by a burst blood vessel leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
Often called a mini-stroke.
Temporary blockage of blood flow; symptoms resolve within minutes or hours but serve as a warning sign of a future major stroke.
Signs & Symptoms (Remember FAST)
F – Face drooping: One side of the face droops or feels numb.
A – Arm weakness: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg.
S – Speech difficulty: Trouble speaking or understanding speech.
T – Time to call emergency: Immediate medical attention is needed.
Other possible symptoms:
Sudden, severe headache
Loss of balance or dizziness
Blurred or double vision
Risk Factors
High blood pressure
Diabetes
High cholesterol
Smoking
Obesity
Older age
Treatment
Ischemic Stroke: Clot-dissolving drugs (thrombolytics) or clot removal procedures (thrombectomy).
Hemorrhagic Stroke: Controlling blood pressure, sometimes surgery to repair the vessel.
Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy help restore mobility, speech, and daily function.