A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. It’s a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. While strokes can happen suddenly, there are often warning signs that manifest months before the event. Recognizing these early signals can be crucial in preventing a stroke and seeking timely medical intervention.
Understanding Strokes
Before delving into the warning signs, it’s essential to understand the two primary types of strokes:
- Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel supplying the brain.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding within or around the brain.
Both types can cause significant damage to the brain, leading to severe physical and cognitive impairments. However, the body often gives subtle signals before a major stroke occurs.
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)
One of the most critical warning signs is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often referred to as a “mini-stroke.” TIAs occur when there’s a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. The symptoms are similar to those of a stroke but are temporary and usually last only a few minutes. They include:
