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The Different Types of Strokes: Ischemic and Hemorrhagic

  • Jan 17, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: Apr 12, 2024



Strokes are a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, striking individuals across all age groups and demographics. They occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Broadly classified into two main types, ischemic and hemorrhagic, each type of stroke has distinct causes, symptoms, and treatment protocols.

Ischemic Stroke: The Common Culprit:

Ischemic strokes account for about 87% of all stroke cases. They occur when a blood clot obstructs a blood vessel supplying the brain. This blockage can develop in two ways: either in the blood vessels directly leading to the brain (thrombotic stroke) or in blood vessels elsewhere in the body before traveling to the brain (embolic stroke). Common risk factors for ischemic stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.


Symptoms and Diagnosis:

The symptoms of an ischemic stroke depend on the area of the brain affected. Common signs include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding speech; vision problems; difficulty walking; dizziness; and severe headache. Prompt diagnosis is crucial. Imaging tests like computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are typically used to confirm an ischemic stroke.


Treatment and Prevention:

Immediate treatment for ischemic stroke involves restoring blood flow to the brain. This is often achieved with clot-busting drugs like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). In some cases, procedures to physically remove the clot may be necessary. Preventative measures include managing risk factors like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, and lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking.


Hemorrhagic Stroke: The Bleeding Type:

Hemorrhagic strokes account for about 13% of stroke cases and are caused by a blood vessel that bursts or leaks in the brain. The two main types of hemorrhagic stroke are intracerebral (within the brain) and subarachnoid (between the brain and the tissues covering it). High blood pressure, overuse of blood thinners, and aneurysms are common causes.


Symptoms and Diagnosis:

Symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke are similar to those of an ischemic stroke but may also include a sudden, severe headache, nausea or vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Diagnosis often involves CT or MRI scans to detect bleeding in the brain.


Treatment and Prevention:

Treatment for hemorrhagic stroke focuses on controlling the bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain. Surgery may be required to repair damaged blood vessels or remove pooled blood. Preventative measures include controlling blood pressure, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.


Conclusion:

Understanding the differences between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes is vital for effective treatment and prevention. Recognizing the signs and seeking immediate medical attention can significantly improve outcomes. Lifestyle changes and medical management of risk factors play a crucial role in reducing the risk of both types of strokes.


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About Dr. Viveck Baluja and KneeTie Vascular Neurology

Dr. Viveck Baluja, MD, is a board-certified vascular neurologist (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology — Vascular Neurology) practicing telemedicine across California, Michigan, and Colorado, with additional consultation services available to international families, particularly in India.

KneeTie offers three focused services: emergency stroke second opinions delivered within 24 hours, traumatic brain injury (TBI) consultations for survivors and caregivers, and same-day adult ADHD evaluations for residents of CA, MI, and CO.

Stroke Second Opinion

After a stroke, families often have minutes to make decisions. Dr. Baluja provides a second set of expert eyes from a board-certified vascular neurologist — reviewing imaging, hospital records, and current treatment — typically within 24 hours of request. Common questions include: Was tPA appropriate? Should we pursue thrombectomy? What is the recovery outlook? What rehabilitation makes sense?

TBI Consultation

Traumatic brain injury recovery is rarely linear. Dr. Baluja helps patients and families understand recovery timelines, treatment options, post-concussion syndrome, and red flags that warrant emergency evaluation. Consultations typically last 50 minutes and are scheduled within the same week.

Same-Day Adult ADHD Evaluation

A real evaluation by a board-certified neurologist — not a 7-minute screening. Dr. Baluja's ADHD evaluations include comprehensive history, sleep and lifestyle assessment, and behavioral strategy alongside any medication discussion. Available same-day for residents of California, Michigan, and Colorado.

Why a Vascular Neurologist?

Vascular neurology is a subspecialty focused on stroke, cerebrovascular disease, and brain blood flow — among the rarest neurology subspecialties in the U.S. Most online telehealth services use general practitioners or nurse practitioners. KneeTie is led by a board-certified vascular neurologist with full state licensure and HIPAA-compliant telehealth infrastructure.

Schedule a consultation: Use the booking calendar above to choose a service and reserve a time. For active stroke or post-tPA emergencies, email gorungo@kneetie.com directly with "URGENT" in the subject line.

© 2020 KneeTie, Jagannatha Health LLC 

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