conditionsstroke

Stroke is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die.

There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding into the brain.

Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of stroke.

Symptoms of stroke can occur suddenly and include numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech; trouble seeing in one or both eyes; trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination; and severe headache with no known cause. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms are present.

Treatment for stroke depends on the type and cause. For ischemic stroke, treatments may include clot-busting medications or procedures to remove the clot. For hemorrhagic stroke, treatment may involve surgery to control bleeding and reduce pressure on the brain. Rehabilitation is often a key part of recovery, helping individuals regain lost function.