A stroke happens when there is a loss of blood flow to part of the brain. Then brain cells cannot get the oxygen and nutrients they need from blood, and they start to die within a few minutes. This can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.
There are two types of strokes:
Ischemic stroke is caused by a blood clot that blocks or plugs a blood vessel in the brain. This is the most common type; about 80% of strokes are ischemic.
Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a blood vessel that breaks and bleeds into the brain
Another condition that’s similar to a stroke is a transient ischemic attack (TIA). It’s sometimes called a “mini-stroke.”
Certain factors can raise your risk of a stroke. The major risk factors include:
High blood pressure. This is the primary risk factor for a stroke.
Diabetes.
Heart diseases. Atrial fibrillation and other heart diseases can cause blood clots.
Smoking. When you smoke, you damage your blood vessels and raise your blood pressure.
A personal or family history of stroke or TIA.
Age. Your risk of stroke increases as you get older.
Race and ethnicity. African Americans have a higher risk of stroke.
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