13/04/2025
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients. The causes of stroke can be broadly categorized into two main types:
Ischemic Stroke (87% of all strokes)
1. *Blood clots*: Formation of blood clots in the blood vessels of the brain, often due to:
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
2. *Embolism*: A blood clot forms in one part of the body and travels to the brain, causing a blockage.
3. *Thrombosis*: A blood clot forms in a blood vessel in the brain.
Hemorrhagic Stroke (13% of all strokes)
1. *High blood pressure*: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the brain to rupture.
2. *Aneurysm*: A weakened blood vessel in the brain can rupture, leading to bleeding.
3. *Arteriovenous malformation (AVM)*: A tangle of blood vessels in the brain can rupture, leading to bleeding.
Other risk factors
1. *Age*: Risk of stroke increases with age.
2. *Family history*: Having a family history of stroke increases the risk.
3. *Obesity*: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of stroke.
4. *Physical inactivity*: Lack of physical activity increases the risk of stroke.
5. *Certain medical conditions*: Conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, and sickle cell disease increase the risk of stroke.
Prevention
1. *Manage high blood pressure*: Control high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication.
2. *Manage high cholesterol*: Control high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medication.
3. *Quit smoking*: Quit smoking to reduce the risk of stroke.
4. *Exercise regularly*: Engage in regular physical activity to reduce the risk of stroke.
5. *Maintain a healthy weight*: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of stroke.
