A stroke, often referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when there is an interruption in the blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain. Similar to a heart attack, which involves a blockage in the blood supply to the heart, a stroke causes damage to the brain and can lead to significant health problems. Medical professionals also call it a “cerebrovascular accident” (CVA).
Types of Stroke
There are two main types of strokes, each with different causes:
Ischemic Stroke:
The most common type of stroke, ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks an artery or blood vessel in the brain, limiting the blood supply. The blockage may result from fatty deposits and plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) in the arteries. Ischemic strokes account for approximately 9 out of 10 strokes.Hemorrhagic Stroke:
A hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a rupture or leaking of a blood vessel in the brain, leading to bleeding within the brain. This type of stroke may be due to an aneurysm, where a weak spot in an artery balloons out and bursts.
Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes result in the death of brain cells. Every minute during a stroke, approximately 2 million brain cells die, which can increase the risk of permanent brain damage, disability, or even death. The damage may affect key brain functions such as speech, movement, and memory. Acting quickly and seeking medical attention is crucial, as treatments are most effective if administered within 3 hours of the stroke’s onset.
Mini-Stroke: Understanding TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
A mini-stroke, also known as a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), occurs when there is a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain. TIAs cause symptoms similar to a stroke, such as weakness or tingling in an arm or leg or temporary vision loss in one eye. These symptoms may last for a few minutes to a day and often go unnoticed.
Though TIAs are temporary, they are significant warning signs. Studies show that 1 in 10 people who experience a TIA will have a full stroke within 90 days, with half of those strokes occurring within the first 48 hours. People who have had a TIA are also at increased risk of having a stroke within the next 10 years, with a 20% chance of a stroke and a 40% chance of dying from a stroke or heart attack. If you suspect you’ve had a TIA, seeking immediate medical attention is vital to prevent a stroke.
Stroke and TIA: How Common Are They?
Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, following heart disease and cancer. It is also the leading cause of serious, long-term disability. In 2004, more than 91,000 women died from stroke, accounting for 61% of all stroke-related deaths. On average, one person in the U.S. suffers a stroke every 40 seconds.
In the U.S., approximately 3.3 million women are stroke survivors. The risk of stroke increases with age, and women, who tend to live longer than men, face a higher lifetime risk of stroke. About 1 in 5 women will suffer a stroke during their lifetime, compared to 1 in 6 men. Each year, more than 370,000 women have a stroke—approximately 46,000 more than men. Stroke-related deaths primarily affect individuals aged 65 and older, with 88% of all stroke deaths occurring in this age group.
The Role of TIA in Stroke Risk
TIA is a precursor to stroke, with about 15% of all strokes being preceded by a TIA. Among women aged 65 to 69, 2% have had a TIA, and the percentage rises to 4% for women aged 75 to 79.
Conclusion
Understanding stroke and its warning signs is crucial for prevention and timely intervention. Ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can lead to severe complications, but recognizing the symptoms early and getting immediate medical help can save lives. A mini-stroke (TIA) is an important warning sign of future stroke risk, and anyone who experiences TIA symptoms should seek immediate medical care. Being aware of stroke risk factors, staying informed, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the likelihood of a stroke and improve overall brain health.