Ischemic Stroke vs. Stroke: Understanding the Differences

Ischemic stroke is a type of stroke, and strokes are generally categorized into two main types: hemorrhagic stroke and ischemic stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke typically refers to bleeding in the brain, such as primary intracerebral hemorrhage or subarachnoid hemorrhage, often caused by hypertension or other vascular abnormalities. On the other hand, ischemic stroke encompasses a range of conditions characterized by blocked or reduced blood flow to the brain, including cerebral infarction.

Types and Causes of Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic strokes can be further classified into several subtypes based on their underlying causes. These include:

1. Atherosclerosis

One of the most common causes of ischemic stroke is atherosclerosis. This condition often develops over time due to chronic health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and aging can also contribute to the formation or dislodging of arterial plaques, which may block blood flow to the brain.

2. Cardiac Conditions

Heart-related issues are another significant cause of ischemic stroke. Conditions such as valvular heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias, and atrial fibrillation can lead to cardioembolic stroke. In these cases, blood clots formed in the heart travel to the brain, causing a blockage and resulting in cerebral infarction.

3. Other Contributing Factors

There are also less common causes of ischemic stroke, such as genetic predispositions and small vessel disease. Small vessel occlusion, in particular, can lead to lacunar strokes, which occur deep within the brain tissue. These types of strokes may not always have a clearly identifiable cause, but they are still classified under the broader category of cerebral infarction.