Learn About Strokes

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What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving it of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to significant brain damage or even death if not treated promptly.

Quick facts about stroke

795,000

Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

87

Nearly 87% of all strokes are ischemic strokes, in which blood flow to the brain is blocked.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

40

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Symptoms and signs of strokes

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

  • Sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
  • Loss of balance, dizziness, or difficulty walking
  • Severe headache with no known cause

An effective method for identifying a stroke is the BEFAST method:

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

Types of strokes

There are five primary types of strokes: ischemic, hemorrhagic, transient ischemic attack (TIA or mini-stroke), brainstem stroke, and cryptogenic stroke (unknown cause). While the core symptoms of weakness and numbness are common across all types, strokes can manifest in different ways depending on what caused the stroke.

Types of Strokes

Who is affected by strokes?

Strokes can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk. Older adults, individuals with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, and those with a family history of stroke are particularly vulnerable.

Causes and risk factors of 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.

Additionally, atrial fibrillation, a heart condition causing irregular heartbeat, significantly raises the risk. Family history and age also play a role, with older individuals and those with a family history of stroke being more susceptible.

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 are strokes 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.
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How are strokes treated?

Prompt treatment is vital for stroke recovery, as the primary goal is to restore blood flow to the brain and minimize damage. Treatment varies by stroke type and may include medications to dissolve clots or manage risk factors, surgical procedures like thrombectomy, and therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy to aid recovery.

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