Stroke ranks as the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of disability among adults. What’s more alarming is that strokes can strike at any age and are particularly dangerous for women. According to the American Stroke Association, one in five women will experience a stroke, making it the third leading cause of death for females.
A stroke, often referred to as a “brain attack,” occurs when the brain’s blood supply is disrupted. There are two primary types of strokes:
Ischemic Stroke: This occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, often due to a clot.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, caused by conditions like aneurysms or abnormal blood vessel formations.
In both cases, parts of the brain can suffer permanent damage, leading to severe disability, irreversible brain damage, or even death. Early recognition and swift action are essential to minimize the impact of a stroke.