Cryptogenic Stroke or Stroke of "Unknown Cause"
A Patient's Guide to Understanding Strokes of Unknown Cause
In most cases, a stroke is caused by a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the brain. But in some instances, despite testing, the cause can’t be determined. Strokes without a known cause are called “cryptogenic”.
Because approximately 1 in 4 stroke survivors will likely have another stroke event, finding the cause of the stroke will help your physician treat the cause of your stroke and lower the likelihood of another event. Having a cryptogenic stroke may be frustrating and overwhelming, but with a proper diagnostic work-up and collaboration with your healthcare team, you can take part in finding the cause of your stroke and help prevent another one from occurring.
Below, we have information and resources that can help you and your loved ones partner with your healthcare team and find answers around cryptogenic stroke.
Cryptogenic Stroke Patient Tools
- What to do when you have had a stroke of unknown cause (Video)
- A Patient Guide to Understanding Strokes of Unknown Cause (PDF)
- The Known and Unknown of Stroke Infographic (PDF)
- Cryptogenic Stroke Collaborative Care Video Testimonial (Video)
- Testimonio de atención colaborativa de ataque o derrame cerebral criptogénico(Video)
- Cryptogenic Stroke Survivor Story Overcoming the Unknown (Video)
- Cryptogenic Stroke Postcard(PDF)
- Una guía para que el paciente pueda comprender qué son los ataques o derrames cerebrales de causa desconocida (PDF) Patient Guide to Understanding Strokes of Unknown Cause