What is Stroke: Types, Symptoms & Risk Factors

A stroke is a serious condition when the blood supply to your brain is either interrupted or reduced. Without blood, brain cells die quickly. This may lead to long-term damage, disability, and even death. Knowing the basics about stroke can enable you to recognise the warning signs and act fast to save a life. This blog will explain the various types of strokes, common symptoms, and some risk factors that increase the chances of having a stroke.

Types of Stroke

There are three main types of strokes, including an ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and transient ischemic attack. Each type has causes and effects different from one another, but all deal with diverse manners in which the brain is affected.

• Ischemic Stroke: Most strokes originate from a blood clot or any other substance blocking an artery. This causes blockage of the inner lining or builds up fatty deposits in the arteries supplying blood to the brain. Because of the blockage, a section of the brain does not get the oxygen and nutrition it needs, resulting in the death of brain cells. 

Ischemic strokes are the most frequent type, making up around 87% of all strokes. They can occur suddenly and unexpectedly, so it's important to identify the symptoms quickly. 

• Hemorrhagic Stroke: A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when there is bleeding in or around the brain resulting from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain. Bleeding exerts pressure on brain cells, thus causing damage. The two most common hemorrhagic causes include high blood pressure and aneurysms. 

While they are less common compared to ischemic strokes, hemorrhagic strokes can be very severe. The immediate concern that necessitates medical attention mainly relates to reasons for survival and recovery. 

• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A transient ischemic attack is a "mini-stroke," which for a short period of time, blocks the blood supply to the brain. TIAs have the same symptoms experienced in a stroke but usually last for only a few minutes to a few hours.

Although the symptoms may go away quickly, a TIA is a major warning sign that a full-blown stroke could happen in the future. It’s better to see a doctor right away if you experience a TIA.

Symptoms of Stroke

Recognising the symptoms of a stroke can make a huge difference in getting help quickly. The faster a stroke is treated, the better the chances of minimising long-term damage. One easy way to remember the main symptoms is the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T.: 

• B: Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination, difficulty walking, or dizziness.
• E: Eyes: Blurred or double vision, or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• F: Face Drooping: If one side of the face droops or feels numb, this could be a sign of a stroke. Ask the person to smile and see if one side doesn’t move as it should.
• A:  Arm Weakness: If one arm feels weak or numb, it could indicate a stroke. Ask the person to raise both arms and check if one arm drifts downward.
• S: Speech Difficulty: The person may have trouble speaking. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, and then you observe whether he is having any difficulty doing so.
• T: Time to Call Emergency Services: If any of the above-mentioned symptoms are developed by a person, then this is the time to take quick action and immediately call the emergency services. 

Other symptoms include sudden confusion, trouble seeing, a severe headache, or trouble walking. It's important to seek medical help right away, even if the symptoms seem to improve on their own.

Risk Factors for Stroke

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of having a stroke. Some risk factors are within our control, but many are not. Here are some common risk factors:

• Age and Family Medical History: Perhaps one of the biggest risk factors relating to stroke has to do with age. Once you are over the age of 55, your risk can double with every passing decade. If you have a family medical history of stroke, then your chances could be higher as well.
• High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. It puts extra strain on blood vessels, making them more likely to burst or become blocked. Keeping blood pressure under control is key to lowering your risk.
• Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and makes the blood more likely to clot. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of stroke.
• Diabetes: Suffering from diabetes puts one at an extremely high risk for stroke because this disease damages blood vessels and increases one's chances for clots. Controlling the sugar level will minimise this risk.
• High Cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol can lead to fatty deposits in the arteries, which can cause blockages. Keeping cholesterol levels in check can help keep the blood flowing smoothly.
• Lack of Exercise and Poor Diet: Insufficient physical activity, combined with a diet rich in junk food, leads to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol levels—all of which heighten the risk of stroke. Engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a nutritious diet are essential for stroke prevention.
• Alcohol and Drug Use: Heavy drinking and drug use can increase blood pressure, as well as result in other conditions that put people at risk for stroke. Reducing or avoiding alcohol and drugs will decrease these risks.
• Heart Disease: Conditions like atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat, can increase the risk of stroke. Heart disease can cause clots to form in the heart, which can then travel to the brain.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

While some risk factors are beyond your control, there are many lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your chances of having a stroke. Here are some simple tips: 

• Nutrition: The focus shall be on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods high in salt, added sugar and unhealthy fats should be limited.
• Exercise regularly: At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Exercise has helped to control weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
• Quit Smoking: If you smoke, quitting can reduce your stroke risk immensely. Talk to your doctor about strategies to help you quit.
• Limit Alcohol Intake: Stick to recommended limits—up to one drink a day for women and two for men.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can raise blood pressure. Find ways to relax, like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or hobbies you enjoy.
• Monitor Health Conditions: Keep an eye on blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help catch potential issues early.

Conclusion

Knowing the different types of strokes, their signs, and risk factors is important for taking care of yourself and others. Acting quickly is crucial when a stroke happens. The sooner you respond, the better the results. Being aware of the warning signs and managing your risk factors can lower your chances of having a stroke, leading to a healthier life. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How does high blood pressure increase the actual risk of stroke?

High blood pressure leads to the damage of blood vessels. As a result, they become prone to clog or burst. This may lead to an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.

Is it possible to prevent strokes altogether, and by which healthy modifications can the risk be minimised?

Yes, many strokes are preventable. Healthy lifestyle choices that include eating a proper diet, good exercise, not smoking, and managing stress will go a long way in reducing the risk. 

How is a stroke diagnosed?

The diagnosis is based on physical findings, imaging studies like computed tomography, and blood studies that assess risk factors and the type of stroke. 

What are the treatments for stroke?

The various treatments for strokes depend on the type of stroke and may include clot-busting medicines if the patient has suffered an ischemic stroke; surgery may also be needed, along with rehabilitation therapies to regain lost skills. 

What is the Golden Hour, and why is it important?

The "Golden Hour" refers to the critical first hour after a stroke occurs. Immediate treatment during this period significantly improves the chances of recovery and reduces the risk of long-term damage. Prompt medical attention is crucial to achieve the best possible outcome.