Types of Stroke and Treatment
Just as strokes have many effects, they also have many causes. Learn the various types of stroke and related treatment.
Ischemic Stroke (Clots)
Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed. It accounts for 87 % of all strokes.
Hemorrhagic Stroke (Bleeds)
Occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures. The two types of weakened blood vessels that usually cause hemorrhagic stroke are aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The most common cause of hemorrhagic stroke is uncontrolled high blood pressure.
TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
Called a mini-stroke, it’s caused by a serious temporary clot. This is a warning sign stroke and should be taken seriously.
Cryptogenic Stroke
In most cases, a stroke is caused by a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the brain. In some instances, despite testing, the cause of a stroke can’t be determined. This is called a cryptogenic stroke.
Brain Stem Stroke
When stroke occurs in the brain stem, it can affect both sides of the body and may leave someone in a ‘locked-in’ state. When a locked-in state occurs, the patient is generally unable to speak or move below the neck.
Treatment
In leading causes of U.S. death, stroke used to rank fourth. Now it's fifth. The higher survival rates are largely due to medical treatment advances.
The right care — done the right away — can save both lives and quality of life.
Additional Information you need to make informed decisions
Let's Talk About Types of Stroke Resource Series
More Resources
Updated Guidelines for Treating Acute Ischemic Strokes
The guidelines have changed. New guidelines could make more stroke patients eligible for treatment. Learn about the update and use our Acute Ischemic Stroke Toolkit to put them to work.
Prevent another stroke
1 in 4 stroke and heart attack survivors will have another. Yet up to 80% of strokes and heart attacks may be prevented with a combination of medication, such as aspirin,* and healthy habits that can have a big impact. Use these resources to help prevent a secondary stroke.
Recent Stroke? You Don't Have to Do It Alone.
Many people do recover from stroke. Learn from those who met their recovery goals and find post-stroke resources.