Heilablóðföll

Heilablóðföll, commonly known as strokes, occur when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes. Strokes can be broadly categorized into two main types: ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes.

Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. They happen when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage can be caused by a clot forming in a brain artery (thrombotic stroke) or a clot that travels from another part of the body, such as the heart, to the brain (embolic stroke).

Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding into the brain tissue. This bleeding increases pressure on the brain and damages cells. There are two main types of hemorrhagic strokes: intracerebral hemorrhage, where bleeding occurs within the brain itself, and subarachnoid hemorrhage, where bleeding occurs in the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane.

Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, smoking, obesity, and a history of previous strokes. Symptoms of a stroke often appear suddenly and can include weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding speech; difficulty seeing in one or both eyes; dizziness; and loss of balance or coordination. Prompt medical attention is crucial for stroke patients to minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery.