Stroke (Brain Stroke): What It Is, Causes, Symptoms and Types

A stroke, also known as a brain stroke, is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Understanding what is brain stroke, its symptoms, causes and types can help in quick recognition and timely treatment - improving the chances of survival and better brain stroke recovery.

Stroke is one of the major causes of disability worldwide, but early intervention can prevent serious complications.

What Is Brain Stroke?

A brain stroke happens when the brain’s blood vessels either become blocked (ischemic stroke) or rupture (hemorrhagic stroke). This disrupts the flow of oxygen-rich blood to brain tissues. Because the brain controls vital functions like movement, speech and memory, a stroke can have long-lasting effects depending on which part of the brain is affected.

Brain Stroke Causes / Reasons

Multiple factors can lead to a stroke. Here are the most common brain stroke causes and reasons:

1. Blood Clots

Clots can form in the arteries supplying the brain (thrombotic stroke) or travel from the heart or another part of the body (embolic stroke).

2. Narrowed Arteries (Atherosclerosis)

Plaque buildup causes arteries to narrow and restrict blood flow, increasing stroke risk.

3. Rupture of Blood Vessels

When a weak blood vessel bursts, it causes a hemorrhagic stroke. High blood pressure and aneurysms are common triggers.

4. Heart Problems

Conditions like atrial fibrillation and low ejection fraction can cause clots that travel to the brain.

5. Lifestyle-Related Brain Stroke Reasons

Smoking
Drinking excessive alcohol
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyle
High-fat diet

6. Underlying Medical Conditions

Diabetes
Hypertension
High cholesterol
Genetic blood clotting disorders
Coronary Artery Disease

Stroke Symptoms / Brain Stroke Symptoms

Recognizing stroke symptoms early can save a life. Symptoms appear suddenly and should never be ignored.

Use the FAST Method

F – Face drooping

A – Arm weakness

S – Speech difficulty

T – Time to call emergency services immediately

Other Common Brain Stroke Symptoms

Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
Difficulty walking or loss of balance
Sudden severe headache without a known cause
Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
Dizziness or fainting

If any of these brain stroke symptoms appear, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Types of Stroke (Types of Brain Stroke)

There are three main types of stroke or types of brain stroke:

1. Ischemic Stroke

The most common type, occurring when a blood vessel to the brain is blocked. This includes:

Thrombotic Stroke – clot forms in the brain artery
Embolic Stroke – clot travels from elsewhere (like the heart)

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke

Occurs when a blood vessel bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. This is often caused by untreated high blood pressure or aneurysm rupture.