Different Types of Stroke
Stroke, also known as a ‘brain attack’, occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. Without the oxygen and nutrients supplied by arterial blood, brain tissue rapidly undergoes serious damage and can die in a matter of minutes. There are two main types of stroke and each can affect many parts of the brain, including the cerebrum, brain stem, and cerebellum.
- Ischemic stroke
Blood clotting is an essential aspect of how our bodies recover from injury. Some clots, however, can be fatal. Ischemic strokes occur when blood clots form elsewhere in the body (usually in the heart) and travel up into the brain, leading to a blockage of an artery supplying the brain with blood. Clots also have the ability to form on fatty plaques that are attached to an artery wall, which can also result in the blockage of a cerebral artery.
- Hemorrhagic stroke
There are no blood clots involved in a hemorrhagic stroke. This type of stroke is caused by the breakage of a blood vessel within the brain, resulting in bleeding. Blood flow is interrupted and the bleeding eventually puts dangerous pressure on the brain tissue. Patients with chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) or cerebral aneurisms are much more likely to experience a hemorrhagic stroke.
Stroke is the number one cause of adult disability and a leading cause of death in the United States. If you or a loved one experiences the symptoms of stroke, do not hesitate to act. Seriously consider seeking emergency medical attention from the emergency medical professionals of West Hills Hospital & Medical Center—our center for emergency services is dedicated to providing prompt and expert treatment for any serious illness or injury. Contact us at (818) 676-4321 to find out more about our comprehensive healthcare services.
