What Is a Stroke? Definition and Causes
A common question among many people is what is a stroke?
Below, we detail the meaning of this concept. Additionally, it is important to note that a stroke can also be referred to as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), brain attack, cerebral embolism, thrombosis, or apoplexy.
What Is a Cerebral Stroke?
Regardless of the term used, a stroke is a blockage or rupture in the blood flow to the brain that prevents blood from reaching this organ. As a result, the brain is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to begin dying within minutes. If not treated promptly, the individual may experience significant long-term impairment.
Causes of a Stroke
There are different types of strokes and underlying causes. The main categories include:
- Ischemic stroke: Caused by a blockage in a cerebral artery, which can be due to a blood clot formed within the blood vessel itself or one that traveled from another part of the body.
- Hemorrhagic stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding within or around the brain.
Risk Factors
Key risk factors to take into account include:
- Age: Age is the primary risk factor. The likelihood of a stroke increases starting at age 55 and doubles every decade thereafter.
- Other factors: High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, obesity or being overweight, certain cardiovascular diseases, and a personal or family history of stroke are all strongly linked to its occurrence.
How Should Patients Acting Upon Stroke Symptoms Respond?
Once a stroke begins, time is critical. If you notice anyone experiencing facial weakness, arm weakness/numbness, or speech impairment—either difficulty speaking or understanding spoken language—you must call emergency services immediately.
Every second counts. Immediate care for stroke patients—preferably within the first hour following the event (the "golden hour")—is essential to minimize neurological damage and reduce long-term disability.
Note: Centro Médico ABC is the only hospital in Mexico internationally certified for the care of cerebrovascular diseases (stroke).
At the Neurological Center of Centro Médico ABC, we offer specialized care. Contact us today to learn more about what a stroke is!
