A Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), more commonly known as a stroke, is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood flow to the brain is hindered or cut off.

The lack of oxygen supply to the brain cells can cause them to die, leading to long-lasting effects such as paralysis, speech, and memory problems, and sometimes death. In this article, we will discuss the different types of strokes, their risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Types of Strokes

There are two main types of strokes:.

Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot or debris blockage stops the blood flow to the brain. This type of stroke is the most common, accounting for around 87 percent of stroke cases.

Plaque buildup in the arteries is the most common cause of blood clotting.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and leads to bleeding in the brain, causing damage to surrounding brain cells. This type of stroke accounts for around 13 percent of all strokes.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of having a stroke. These include:.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a stroke usually emerge suddenly. The most common signs and symptoms of a stroke include:.

Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, usually on one side of the body
Difficulty in speaking or understanding speech
Vision problems, blurry or blackened vision, or loss of vision
Dizziness, unsteadiness, vertigo, or loss of balance or coordination
Severe headache that occurs suddenly and without any known cause

Diagnosis

Stroke requires immediate medical attention. A doctor will review a patient’s medical history and conduct a physical and neurological examination. The patient may undergo several tests to determine the type, location, and severity of the stroke.

These tests include:.

Blood tests
Computed tomography (CT)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Carotid ultrasound
Cerebral angiogram

Treatment

The treatment for a stroke depends on the type, location, and severity of the stroke. It aims to restore blood flow to the brain, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of future strokes. Treatment options include:.

Ischemic Stroke

Clot-busting drugs
Endovascular procedures, such as thrombectomy
Anticoagulants, such as warfarin and heparin
Platelet aggregation inhibitors, such as aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor
Carotid endarterectomy, or surgical removal of the plaque that blocks the blood vessels in the neck area

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Surgery to repair blood vessel abnormalities or stop bleeding
Medications to control blood pressure
Intensive care to closely monitor the patient’s condition

Prevention

The best way to prevent a stroke is to minimize the risk factors. This can be achieved by:.

Controlling high blood pressure
Quitting smoking
Managing diabetes and cholesterol levels
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight and diet
Reducing alcohol intake
Treating sleep apnea

Conclusion

A stroke is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding the types, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of strokes can help reduce the likelihood of debilitating effects or even death.

Reducing the risk factors for stroke through lifestyle changes and medication can go a long way towards staying healthy and living a long life.