Stroke Warnings and Types of Strokes

According to the National Stroke Association, "strokes kill more than 137,000 Americans each year," making them the fourth leading cause in death after heart disease, lung diseases, and the different forms of cancer. Fortunately, here at Winchester Neurological Consultants in Winchester, VA, we provide patients with the care and education they need to understand the risks concerning this condition—read on for a brief overview on this subject.

What types of strokes are there?

  • Transient ischemic attack: This warning stroke is a ministroke that temporarily blocks blood flow to the brain for a short period of time due to a blood clot.
  • Ischemic stroke: This is when a blood clot prevents blood from flowing to the brain and is usually the result of an atherosclerosis (i.e. a buildup of fatty deposits).
  • Hemorrhagic stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or breaks, which results in blood seeping into the surrounding tissues.

What is a warning stroke?

Stroke warnings are called transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and they warn people of an oncoming stroke. People suffer from episodes of chest pain warning them of a heart attack. These episodes vary in length of time, from a few minutes to one hour. If the episode runs longer, this means you may suffer from a mild stroke.

What are the signs of a stroke?

  • Sudden weakness in face, arm, or leg on one side of the body
  • Sudden or gradual loss of vision in one eye
  • Loss or trouble in speech
  • Sudden severe headache
  • Sudden difficulty walking
  • Unexplained dizziness or unsteadiness
  • Other symptoms include: sudden nausea, confusion, seizures, vomiting, fainting, or coma

If a loved one is suffering from a stroke, you need to call 911 immediately.

Concerned? Give us a call

If you have any questions about strokes, be sure to contact your Winchester, VA, doctor today by dialing (540) 667-1828.

Winchester Neurological Consultants

Office Hours

DOORS OPEN AT 8:15AM

Monday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-5:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed