What Are Strokes Called in the Very Smallest Blood Vessels?

A stroke is a restriction of the blood flow in the vessels of the brain. A number of conditions such as blood clot or a ruptured artery cause stroke. It is a serious medical condition that can cause permanent damage or death. Ischemic stroke and hemorrhage are two types of stroke. Any symptoms such as loss of consciousness, severe headache or vomiting demand immediate medical attention. The smallest blood vessels are known as capillaries. These tiny vessels can experience hemorrhage or an event known as petechia.

Ischemic Stroke

• A blood clot in an artery leading to the brain causes ischemic stroke. When this occurs, nutrients and oxygen cannot reach brain cells and, if not treated immediately, brain tissue may die. Although other causes exist, the most common cause of ischemic stroke is narrowing of the arteries in the neck or head brought about by cholesterol deposits in those locations.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage

• An intracerebral hemorrhage happens when a faulty blood vessel within the brain bursts and blood leaks into the brain. This condition can happen in a capillary as well as a vein or artery. Intracerebral bleed damages brain cells by increasing pressure in the brain. The event typically happens in the basal ganglia, cerebellum, brain stem or cortex area of the brain. High blood pressure causes this type of hemorrhage, though infection, tumor or trauma may also be the cause.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

• The subarachnoid space refers to the area surrounding the brain. When a bleed occurs here, it is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Cerebral aneurysm, a tiny abnormal swelling in an artery, causes a vessel to rupture and lead to this condition.

Petechia

• Petechia is a small bleed from a broken capillary. Often petechia occurs under the skin and appears as a tiny red spot. The event can also occur in the brain. According to the Wrong Diagnosis website, vasculitis or infection causes petechia in the brain. Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), a blood clotting disorder, also causes the abnormality. Petechia in the brain is rare but can be life threatening.