Intersociety events

What is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain cells from receiving oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Because the brain controls how we think, speak, move, see, and feel, the effects of a stroke depend on which part of the brain is injured and how extensive the damage is.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. However, it is also one of the most treatable neurological emergencies when recognised early. Advances in medical treatment mean that many people who receive rapid care can recover with little or no disability.

There are three main types of strokes:

Ischaemic Stroke (approximately 85% of all strokes)

An ischaemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying the brain. This is the most common type of stroke. The clot may form within the artery itself or travel from another part of the body, most commonly the heart.

Common causes include:

• Atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to cholesterol build-up)
• Atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat that can produce blood clots)
• Disease affecting the small blood vessels of the brain
• Less common conditions such as arterial dissection, carotid web, or inherited clotting disorders

Many patients with ischaemic stroke may benefit from emergency treatments such as intravenous thrombolysis (“clot-busting” medication) and mechanical thrombectomy (removal of the clot using specialised catheters). These treatments are highly effective but must be performed as quickly as possible after symptom onset.

Haemorrhagic Stroke (approximately 15%)

A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding into or around the brain. The bleeding damages brain tissue directly and increases pressure inside the skull.

Common causes include:

• High blood pressure
• Ruptured brain aneurysms
• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
• Cerebral amyloid angiopathy
• Blood-thinning medications in some circumstances

Treatment focuses on controlling the bleeding, reducing pressure within the brain, treating the underlying cause, and preventing further complications.

Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)

A transient ischaemic attack, often called a “mini-stroke,” occurs when blood flow to the brain is temporarily interrupted. Symptoms usually resolve completely within minutes or hours and leave no permanent brain injury.

Although symptoms disappear, a TIA is a serious warning sign that a major stroke may occur soon afterwards. Anyone experiencing symptoms of a TIA should seek immediate medical assessment, as early treatment can substantially reduce the risk of a future stroke.

Stroke is an Emergency

Every minute after a stroke begins, approximately 1.9 million brain cells are lost if blood flow is not restored. Early recognition and rapid transport to hospital can make the difference between recovery and permanent disability.

Remember the FAST message:

• Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
• Arms: Can both arms be raised?
• Speech: Is speech slurred or difficult to understand?
• Time: Call emergency services immediately.

Never wait for symptoms to improve. Even if they disappear after a few minutes, urgent medical assessment is essential.

Stroke can often be prevented, treated, and recovered from—but only if action is taken quickly.