Types of Stroke

There are three main types of stroke:

• Ischemic - caused by a clot or other blockage within an artery leading to the brain, and accounts for almost 80% of all strokes
• Intracerebral hemorrhage - caused by the sudden rupture of an artery within the brain, releasing blood inside the brain that compresses vital structures
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage - also caused by the sudden rupture of an artery, but blood fills the space surrounding the brain

Stroke treatments vary, with initial procedures focusing on restoring blood flow for an ischemic stroke, or controlling bleeding for a hemorrhagic stroke.

Remember: the faster you get help for any of the warning signs of stroke, the better your chance for recovery. If you or a loved one experience warning signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately or get to the nearest emergency room.

If you have a family history of stroke, it's important that you consult a doctor who specializes in heart care to determine your best plan of care for a healthy life. Find a neurologist today.