Types of Stroke

Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke occurs when an artery that supplies the brain is greatly narrowed or blocked. This can be caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries. Plaque in the arteries can break off in small pieces or the rough edges can cause blood clots that eventually break free and become stuck in small blood vessels in the brain.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs less frequently than ischemic stroke.  Instead of a blockage, hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, allowing blood to flow freely into the skull and brain tissue. This blood flow causes damage to the brain cells. Some people have defects in the blood vessels of the brain that make this more likely.

Transient Ischemic Attacks

TIA is often called a mini stroke. It is a temporary blockage of the artery. The symptoms of the TIA will go away within a 24 hour period, depending on which artery is blocked. TIAs leave no permanent brain tissue damage. When TIA is treated in the Emergency Room, it is often treated the same as stroke, because the symptoms can be very similar. TIAs are a warning sign that should be discussed with your physician. An estimated 40 percent of people who suffer TIAs ultimately have a stroke.