Types of Stroke
A stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) is most often due to a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain (ischemic) or when a blood vessel in the brain leaks, causing blood to spill in the surrounding spaces of the brain tissue (hemorrhagic) resulting in damage to the affected part of the brain. Injury to the brain tissue can result in difficulty speaking, the loss of motor power or loss of memory, among other things. How a person recovers from a stroke depends on the area of the brain involved and the extent of damage done. Stroke is one of the common causes of disability in adults and is the third leading cause of death in the country.
Left Brain Stroke: The left side of the brain controls the right side of the body. Damage to the left side of the brain can weaken or paralyze the right side of the body, and may cause problems with speech and with the understanding of spoken and written language.
Right Brain Stroke: The right side of the brain controls the left side of the body. Damage to the right side of the brain can weaken or paralyze the left side of the body and may cause lack of awareness and neglect of the left side of the body.
Cerebellar Stroke: The cerebellum is the area of the brain that regulates all movements and maintains balance. It coordinates movements and speech muscles. Damage to the cerebellum can cause lack of balance or coordination on the same side of the body. It can also cause slurring of speech.
Brain Stem Stroke: The brain stem is a very delicate area attached to the spinal cord by thick nerve fibers. It controls life-sustaining functions such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. Damage to this part of the brain can cause serious impairment in this life- sustaining functions. Symptoms of dizziness, slurred speech and double vision are also common. It may also cause paralysis on both sides of the body.
Mini-stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a warning sign that can occur before a major stroke. A mini-stroke or TIA occurs when there is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. There is no permanent damage to the brain. The signs of a TIA are similar to those of a stroke but they usually last less than 24 hours. If you know of anyone having signs or symptoms of a stroke or TIA, CALL 911. Do not wait, rest or go to sleep hoping your symptoms will go away. Immediate medical attention may prevent further disability and save someone’s life.
