Stroke may be classified into
1.Haemorrhagic – caused by bleeding
2.Ischemic – caused by the closure of the cerebral vessels
Ischemic stroke
Occurs up to 80-85% on the basis of the closure. Blood clot that is formed within the vessel (thrombus), or from elsewhere and embolized to the central nervous system (embolus). Ischemic stroke may be the result of deep vein thrombosis (occlusion) of cerebral vessels leading to ischemia (insufficient blood supply) of the brain. The artery is closed with a blood clot that is formed within the vessel (thrombus), or from elsewhere and embolized to the central nervous system (embolus).
Hemorrhagic stroke
Formed on the basis of rupture of cerebral blood vessels, resulting in bleeding. We distinguish hemorrhage as :
a) subarachnoid hemorrhage – bleeding between the surface of brain and arachnoid mater
b) intracerebral hemorrhage – bleeding directly into the brain tissue
c) subdural hemorrhage – bleeding under the dura mater
Symptoms of stroke
These symptoms occur suddenly, it is important to pay attention to them and not to underestimate the situation. Timely call for emergency services is crucial for a chance to recover and to minimize irreversible consequences. Symptoms include:
- Changes in consciousness
- Sudden severe headache
- Speech disorders
- Bilateral or unilateral paralysis of the facial muscles (drooped corner of the mouth)
- Movement disorders and convulsions
- Paralysis or loss of sensation in one or more limbs
- Balance disorders
- Impaired gait
- Impaired vision
- Unilateral hearing loss
- Dizziness, nausea, vomiting etc.
These following signs help you easily recognise stroke:
- Is your face drooping? ⇒ If yes, call an ambulance immediately.
- Can you raise both hands? ⇒ If no, call an ambulance immediately.
- Is your speech slurred or jumbled? ⇒ If yes, call and ambulance immediately.
Sudden stroke is an acute condition, where treatment outcomes depends on the speed of definitive treatment in neurological intensive care units.