Define stroke
A stroke is a medical condition that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, resulting in the death of brain cells. This disruption of blood flow can be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or by the rupturing of a blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Strokes can cause various symptoms, including sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, dizziness, and severe headache. Strokes require immediate medical attention as they can lead to long-term disability or even death.
A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is disrupted or reduced, leading to temporary or permanent loss of brain function. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
There are three main types of strokes:
1. Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying blood to the brain, leading to reduced blood flow.
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks, causing bleeding that damages brain cells. Hemorrhagic strokes are less common but tend to be more severe.
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Also known as a "mini-stroke," a TIA is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. The symptoms of a TIA are similar to those of a stroke but typically last only a few minutes to a few hours and do not cause permanent damage.
Common symptoms of a stroke include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, sudden confusion, severe headache, dizziness, and difficulty walking or loss of balance.
If you suspect someone is having a stroke, it is essential to call emergency services immediately for prompt medical attention. Time is crucial in treating a stroke, and early intervention can minimize damage and improve outcomes.
A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, resulting in the loss of brain function. Strokes can be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or by the rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
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