Understanding Strokes

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is either blocked by a blood clot or disrupted by bleeding in the brain. Because the brain controls movement, speech, vision, and vital body functions, even a short interruption in blood flow can result in permanent damage.

Strokes are classified into several main types:

• Ischemic stroke: Caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain (most common)
• Hemorrhagic stroke: Caused by a ruptured or leaking blood vessel in the brain
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA or “mini‑stroke”): Temporary blockage with stroke‑like symptoms
• Brainstem stroke: Affects the brainstem and can disrupt breathing, balance, and swallowing
• Cryptogenic stroke: Stroke with no identifiable cause after testing

Stroke facts and statistics

Signs and symptoms of a stroke

Recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can significantly reduce brain damage and save lives. If you suspect a stroke, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.

FAST/BE FAST warning signs of stroke

Use BE FAST to recognize the first signs of stroke quickly:

• B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• E – Eyes: Sudden changes in vision, such as blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• F – Face: Drooping or unevenness on one side of the face. Ask the person to smile to check.
• A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm. Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward.
• S – Speech: Difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or inability to understand speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
• T- Time: Time to call emergency services immediately. Every second counts, as quick treatment can minimize damage and improve outcomes.

Who is at risk for stroke?

Strokes can affect anyone, but certain individuals are at higher risk, including:

• Adults over age 55
• People with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
• Individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib)
• Smokers
• Those with a family history of stroke

Race, sex, and lifestyle factors can also influence stroke risk.

Causes and risk factors for strokes

Strokes are generally caused by either a blockage of blood flow (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Other causes include transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often referred to as mini-strokes.

Common risk factors

Several factors increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke, including:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Sedentary lifestyle
• High cholesterol
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Atherosclerosis (thickening of the artery walls)

How is a stroke diagnosed?

Diagnosing a stroke involves a comprehensive process. Your doctor and emergency team must determine your type of stroke before a proper treatment can be provided. The following ways are how your physician will properly diagnose your stroke:

• Physical exams: Assessing symptoms and physical responses.
• Imaging tests: CT or MRI scans to pinpoint the cause and severity.
• Blood tests: To identify clotting issues or risk factors like high cholesterol.
• Other tests: Such as angiograms or echocardiograms to examine blood vessels and heart function.
• Medical history: A review of your symptoms, past and present, and their onset, previous medical problems or operations, and any illnesses that run in your family.

Recovering from a stroke

Recovering from a stroke is a unique journey for each individual. The extent of recovery depends on the type of stroke, the area of the brain affected, how quickly treatment began, and the intensity of rehabilitation.

Although there is no cure for stroke, meaningful recovery and improved independence are possible, even months or years after the event.

Life after stroke often involves adapting to physical, cognitive, or emotional changes. Support systems, assistive technology, continued therapy, and education can help stroke survivors and caregivers navigate recovery and improve quality of life.