Dr Ramji Mehrotra | Types of Strokes

Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), commonly known as strokes, are medical emergencies which occur when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain. This disruption can have serious and often devastating consequences, including neurological impairments, disability, and even death.

According to leading cardiac specialist Dr. Ramji Mehrotra, while strokes primarily involve the brain, they are often closely linked to the heart, as the heart plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy circulatory system. There are several types of strokes, each with distinct characteristics and different connections to heart health.

Ischemic Strokes

Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for approximately 87% of all stroke cases. These strokes occur when there is a blockage or clot within a blood vessel, leading to a decrease or complete cessation of blood flow to a specific part of the brain. Ischemic strokes have two primary subtypes:

Ø  Thrombotic Stroke: Thrombotic strokes occur when a blood clot forms within one of the arteries supplying blood to the brain. This clot, known as a thrombus, typically develops in a narrowed or damaged blood vessel, often due to atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits or plaques in the arteries). Thrombotic strokes tend to occur gradually and are more common in older adults with a history of vascular disease.

Ø  Embolic Stroke: Embolic strokes happen when a blood clot or debris from another part of the body, such as the heart, travels through the bloodstream and lodges in a smaller artery within the brain. These clots, known as emboli, can obstruct blood flow, causing a sudden and severe ischemic stroke. Common sources of emboli include atrial fibrillation, where irregular heartbeats can lead to clot formation, and cardiac conditions like endocarditis or heart valve disorders.

Hemorrhagic Strokes

Hemorrhagic strokes occur when there is bleeding in or around the brain. They account for about 13% of all stroke cases and are often more severe and life-threatening than ischemic strokes. Hemorrhagic strokes are divided into two primary subtypes:

Ø  Intracerebral Hemorrhage (ICH): ICH is the most common form of hemorrhagic stroke and involves bleeding directly into the brain tissue. This bleeding is typically caused by the rupture of a small blood vessel within the brain. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant risk factor for ICH, as it can weaken blood vessel walls over time, making them prone to rupture.

Ø  Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH): SAH occurs when there is bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin membrane that covers it (the arachnoid mater). This type of hemorrhagic stroke is often the result of a ruptured aneurysm—a weakened, balloon-like area in an artery that bursts and causes bleeding into the subarachnoid space. The main symptom of SAH is a sudden and severe headache.

It is essential to recognize the signs of a stroke and seek immediate medical attention when they occur, as timely treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery. Common stroke symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking or slurred speech, severe headache, and loss of balance or coordination.

Conclusion

Strokes are complex medical events often intertwined with heart health. Understanding the different types of strokes and their connections to the heart highlights the importance of cardiovascular care in stroke prevention. Dr Ramji Mehrotra advises that maintaining a healthy heart, managing risk factors like hypertension and atrial fibrillation, and seeking prompt medical attention for heart-related issues can significantly reduce the risk of strokes and their devastating consequences. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize both heart and brain health to minimize their stroke risk and promote overall well-being.