Are there different types of stroke?
There are three main types of stroke – ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known
as a mini-stroke, according to the Disease
Control and Prevention
(CDC).
Each type of stroke is different, according to the CDC:
- Ischemic stroke – About 85 percent of strokes are this kind, in which the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain is blocked. The blockages often are caused by blood clots.
- Hemorrhagic stroke – This happens when the artery in the brain leaks blood or breaks open. The blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, damaging them. This types of stroke can be caused by issues such as high blood pressure or aneurysms. There are two types of these hemorrhages – an intracerebral hemorrhage, in which an artery in the brain bursts, and a subarachnoid hemorrhage, in which there is bleeding between the brain and the thin tissue covering the brain.
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA) – Also known as a mini-stroke, this is different than the other major types because blood flow to the brain is blocked for only a short time of 5 minutes or less. TIA serves as a warning sign of a future stroke and should be considered a medical emergency. About 10 percent to 15 percent of people who have a TIA will have a major stroke within three months, so it is important to be treated as soon as possible.
For more information about types of stroke, talk with your physician.
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