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What Are the Types of Strokes?

A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery, or a blood vessel in the brain bursts, disrupting the flow of blood to the brain. The blood loss kills brain cells, resulting in permanent damage and, in some instances, death. The damage to the brain can create problems with speech, memory and movement. The two major types of stroke are ischemic and hemorrhagic. About 85 percent of strokes are ischemic, but hemorrhagic strokes are typically more severe.

  1. Embolic Stroke

    • An embolic stroke is a form of ischemic stroke. The National Stroke Association explains that an embolic stroke occurs when a blood clot forms in the body and travels through your bloodstream to your brain. The clot lodges in a narrow artery, thus blocking blood flow. This results in almost immediate physical or neurological symptoms including slurred speech or paralysis in one side of the body. Embolic stroke is generally caused by heart disease or occurs following heart surgery, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center.

    Thrombotic Stroke

    • Thrombotic stroke, the second type of ischemic stroke, occurs when a blood clot develops in the arteries of the brain. The symptoms can be sudden or may develop slowly over a period of days. Mini strokes may be a warning sign that a thrombotic stroke is about to strike. Thrombosis can occur in either large or small vessels. High cholesterol can lead to thrombotic strokes.

    Intracerebral Hemorrhage

    • The Internet Stroke Center says that an intracerebral hemorrhage occurs when a diseased blood vessel within the brain bursts, causing blood to leak into the brain. The pressure from the blood damages the brain cells, and if the blood flow is quick, it can lead to unconsciousness or death. High blood pressure is the main cause of intracerebral hemorrhage. Severe headaches, a stiff neck, confusion and weakness are all signs of this stroke type. Although they can occur at any age, intracerebral hemorrhage typically affects those at a younger age than those who experience ischemic strokes.

    Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

    • An aneurysm can burst in or around the brain, surrounding it by a blood-contaminated fluid. This is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Possible symptoms are a severe headache, weakness, confusion, dizziness, extreme sensitivity to light, a stiff neck or paralysis. Aneurysms have no known cause and can develop at any age. Because the blood spreads so quickly, it can bring swift unconsciousness or death.

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