Stroke Care

There are two main types of stroke:

• Ischemic stroke: During an ischemic stroke, blood supply to the brain is cut off due to blood clots, fatty deposits or narrowed arteries, causing a blockage in the arteries that feed your brain. This type of stroke can be caused by irregular heartbeat, problems with your heart valve, infections, clotting issues, or heart attacks. Most strokes are ischemic strokes.

• Hemorrhagic stroke: A hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or bursts (ruptures), putting pressure on your brain cells and damaging them. This type of stroke can be caused by weakened blood vessel walls, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or trauma such as a car accident. Hemorrhagic strokes are less common than ischemic strokes but are often more fatal.

• Transient ischemic attack: It is also possible to have a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini stroke.” During a TIA, blood flow to the brain is only blocked for a short time. These are usually warning signs of a future, more major stroke. Ask your healthcare team how to reduce your risk of stroke.

Strokes can happen to people at any age, even children. Strokes are most common in people older than 55 and in men.

You might be at higher risk for a stroke if you:

• Have personal or family history of stroke or heart attack

• Are African American, Hispanic or Native American

• Smoke cigarettes or you live with a smoker (even if you don’t smoke)

• Have uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary artery disease or high blood cholesterol

• Have migraines

• Do not get enough physical activity

• Use substances or have energy drinks excessively

Many people recover from stroke. Recovery is different for everyone and can take weeks, months or years. Some people return to normal but others may have more permanent health issues from their stroke.

Physical, speech or occupational therapy might be part of your recovery plan. The goal of these rehabilitation services are to help you regain your speech and physical ability so you can get back to your regular daily activities.

If you have had a stroke, you are at high risk for another stroke. It is important to treat the health conditions or behaviors to lower your risk of having another, more serious stroke.