Avry Farmer

With the management of motor skills and organization of thoughts, emotions, and memories, the brain is undoubtedly the most powerful component of our body. However, what happens when this meticulous equilibrium is disturbed? A stroke, commonly referred to as a brain attack, appears after a blockage of blood flow to the brain. Strokes can be classified as either ischemic, with a blocked artery, or hemorrhagic, with ruptured arteries. Either case can lead to irreversible impairment or possible death. In this post, you will learn more about the underlying triggers of brain attacks and what you can do to decrease your risk of contraction.

How is a Stroke Triggered?

For proper function, all parts of the brain need oxygen delivered from the heart. Any disruption within the arteries can lead to cell death in the brain in minutes. As previously mentioned, the two most common types of strokes are ischemic and hemorrhagic. In ischemic strokes, blood vessels are obstructed from entering the brain. A buildup of cholesterol in the interior covering of arteries, known as plaque, or blood clots are the most common obstructions causing ischemic strokes. Plaque grows in an obstinate cycle of white blood cells blocking cholesterol and forming foamy cells, leading to more fat and inflammation. One of the leading causes of ischemic strokes are from large-artery atherosclerosis, where these plaque deposits grow and rupture in major arteries. However, ischemic strokes may also be a result of cardio-embolisms and small-vessel occlusions. This specific category of stroke is accredited to the grouping of poor nutrition and lack of exercise. Hemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, are a result of ruptures of arteries within the brain. Damage of cells stems from the increased pressure on brain cells. Despite ischemic strokes making up the majority of cases, hemorrhagic strokes are associated with common conditions, such as high blood pressure or aneurysms. Hemorrhagic strokes can be further classified as either intracerebral, with bleeding directly into the brain tissue, or subarachnoid, meaning the bleeding surrounds the brain. In 2021, The American Medical Association concluded a study on the severity and outcome of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes over twenty years. Out of over 183,000 patients, only 25.7% of cases had a history of stroke and the average patient was hospitalized for 20 days. Of those affected by hemorrhagic subcategories, only 17.2% of people had a familiar history and patients spent time hospitalized ranging from 13 to 54 days. 

What are Transient Ischemic Attacks?

Aside from the major types of strokes there is a third category, commonly referred to as the “mini stroke.” This variation of stroke, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), happens with a block of blood supply to the brain for a short period of time. Oftentimes, these strokes, while less severe in nature, serve as a forewarning for future strokes. Like all strokes, TIAs are medical emergencies and demand immediate attention. Signs and symptoms can contract quickly and without notice, so it is important to monitor your health to keep you out of risk of a major stroke. 

How to Prevent a Stroke?

The case of a stroke has become a household term for many, disturbing someone in the United States every 40 seconds. However, how can this modern-day epidemic be prevented? An underlying combination of lack of nutrition and lack of physical activity attributes to the growing population of Americans affected by strokes. However, there are methods of prevention available. Risk of stroke is increased with high sodium and high blood sugar, also known as hypertension. Eating low-salt diets, fresh produce, and avoiding sugar contributes to an overall healthy lifestyle and curves your chances of a stroke. Additionally, smoking and secondhand smoke should be avoided, alongside a regular maintenance of other medical conditions, such as diabetes or obesity. About 80% of strokes are preventable, so don’t let a brain attack be the reason your life is changed forever.

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