2 Types of Strokes: Ischaemic vs. Haemorrhagic

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is stopped, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of strokes: ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke.

What Is an Ischaemic Stroke?

Ischaemic stroke is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is blocked. The blockage can be caused by a clot that forms in the brain (thrombotic stroke) or a clot that travels from another part of the body to the brain (embolic stroke).

What Are the Causes of Ischaemic Stroke?

1. Atherosclerosis: The most common cause of ischaemic stroke, involving the buildup of fatty deposits (plaque) in the arteries, leading to narrowed or blocked blood vessels.
2. Blood clots: Clots can form in the arteries due to various factors, including heart conditions like atrial fibrillation.

What Is a Haemorrhagic Stroke?

A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. This type of stroke can be more severe and requires immediate medical attention.

What Causes Haemorrhagic Stroke?

1. High blood pressure: Chronic hypertension can weaken blood vessels and increase the risk of rupture.
2. Aneurysms: These are bulges in blood vessels that can burst, causing bleeding in the brain.
3. Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): These are tangles of blood vessels that can rupture and cause haemorrhagic strokes.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Stroke?

• Face drooping
• Weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body
• Trouble speaking or trouble understanding speech
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes 
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Sudden severe headache 

How Are Strokes Diagnosed?

The diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examinations, medical history evaluation and diagnostic tests.

Your doctor may request one or more of the following tests:

• CT or MRI scan: These imaging techniques help identify the type of stroke and locate the affected area of the brain.
• Blood tests: These tests can determine underlying causes of the stroke, such as blood clotting disorders. Some causes overlap with heart disease in Malaysia, emphasising the importance of cardiovascular health checks.

What Are the Treatment Options for Stroke?

Treatment for a stroke depends on its type, severity, and timing. The goal of treatment is to restore blood flow to the brain, minimise brain damage, and manage any underlying conditions, including those related to heart disease in Malaysia, to prevent future strokes.

For Ischaemic Stroke

• Medications: Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can dissolve the clot and restore blood flow. This medication is most effective when administered within a few hours of symptom onset.
• Thrombectomy: In some cases, doctors may use a catheter to remove the clot directly.

For Haemorrhagic Stroke

• Medications: Drugs to control blood pressure may be prescribed.
• Surgery: Surgical intervention may be required to repair the ruptured blood vessel or relieve pressure in the brain.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main differences between ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes?

   Ischaemic strokes occur due to blocked blood flow, while haemorrhagic strokes result from a ruptured blood vessel.

2. Can strokes be prevented?

   Yes, strokes can often be prevented by managing risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle. While not all strokes are preventable, especially those linked to genetic factors or certain medical conditions, many can be avoided by addressing modifiable risk factors like those associated with heart disease in Malaysia.

3. What should I do if I suspect someone is having a stroke?

   Call emergency services immediately and remember the acronym B.E.F.A.S.T. (Balance loss, Eyes (vision) changes, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call for an ambulance).

4. Are there any long-term effects of stroke?

   Many stroke survivors experience long-term effects such as mobility issues, speech difficulties, or cognitive changes, but rehabilitation can aid recovery.

Book an Appointment at Pantai Hospitals

Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Understanding the signs and symptoms of both ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes, particularly for individuals at risk due to heart disease in Malaysia, can be lifesaving. If you or someone you know experiences sudden weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, or a severe headache, it is crucial to seek medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and minimise long-term effects. 

If you have questions about stroke prevention, contact us to book an appointment at your nearest Pantai Hospital to schedule a health screening or consultation with the team of expert neurologists at Pantai Hospitals to begin your journey towards better heart health today.

Pantai Hospitals have been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.