What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off — either by a clot blocking an artery (ischaemic stroke, 85% of cases) or a blood vessel bursting (haemorrhagic stroke, 15%). Brain cells begin dying within minutes without oxygen.
FAST — Call 999/911 Immediately:Face drooping | Arm weakness | Speech difficulty | Time to call emergency services. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.
Types of Stroke
| Type | Cause | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Ischaemic (85%) | Blood clot blocks artery | Clot-busting drugs (tPA) within 4.5 hours; thrombectomy |
| Haemorrhagic (15%) | Blood vessel ruptures | Blood pressure control, surgery to relieve pressure |
| TIA (mini-stroke) | Temporary blockage — clears itself | Same urgency as stroke — predict major stroke within 48 hrs |
Blood Tests Ordered Immediately
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Glucose | Hypoglycaemia mimics stroke — must be excluded |
| Full Blood Count | Platelet count; polycythaemia as a cause |
| Coagulation (PT/INR, APTT) | Bleeding risk before thrombolysis |
| Electrolytes | Sodium imbalance can mimic stroke |
| Troponin | Stroke and heart attack can co-occur |
| Lipid Profile | Atherosclerosis risk assessment |
| HbA1c | Diabetes as a risk factor |
Risk Factors for Stroke
- High blood pressure — the single biggest risk factor
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) — clots form in the heart and travel to brain
- Diabetes and high cholesterol
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Obesity and physical inactivity
- Family history and age above 55
FAQs
Can a stroke be prevented?
Yes — treating high blood pressure, AF, diabetes and cholesterol, plus lifestyle changes (quit smoking, exercise, healthy diet) dramatically reduces risk.
What is a TIA?
A transient ischaemic attack causes stroke symptoms that resolve within 24 hours (usually minutes). It's a medical emergency — risk of major stroke in the next 48 hours is high.
How long does stroke recovery take?
Recovery varies widely. Most improvement occurs in the first 3–6 months, but neuroplasticity allows gains for years with rehabilitation.
Medical Disclaimer: Stroke is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately if you suspect a stroke — do not drive to hospital.