A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. This interruption impacts the brain cells’ ability to get the nutrients and oxygen required. A stroke can lead to long-term disability, brain damage, or death. Different kinds of stroke have similar symptoms but are yet different.

CVA and the types

Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) also called stroke is classified into 2 types of strokes. These include ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke is common when the blood vessel is blocked due to a blood clot. This causes the brain to get an insufficient supply of blood and oxygen. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to a rupture of a blood vessel and causes blood supply obstruction to the brain.

TIA, a mini stroke

A transient ischemic stroke (TIA) shares similar stroke-like symptoms like CVA but last several minutes to 24 hours. The blood supply interruption is temporary and TIA does not damage the brain cells like CVA. However, when a person experiences TIA, one cannot tell if a TIA or CVA has occurred. About 1 in 3 people who have TIA experience another stroke.

Experiencing stroke symptoms

The symptoms of both TIA and CVA are similar. One may experience sudden symptoms such as numbness or weakness of the face or any limb, confusion, or vision problems. Additional symptoms include sudden difficulty with speech, headache, mobility issues, dizziness, or loss of balance. Immediately call for medical help if experiencing any of these signs or symptoms.

Preventive measures to consider

Making changes to one’s lifestyle can help in preventing another stroke. These healthy lifestyle changes include a healthy diet and weight, avoiding tobacco use, and staying physically active. Practice various relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to reduce stress. Keep control and check blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Telling the difference between strokes

Whether one is having a TIA or CVA, is hard to tell at the time of the symptoms. The crucial step at that time is to act quickly. Once medical help arrives, the patient will be given immediate medical treatment. The doctor will do the necessary tests to know the diagnosis and, prescribe medications and advise on preventive measures.