What is the Difference Between Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke?

The main difference between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes lies in their underlying causes and the type of damage they inflict on the brain. Here are the key differences:

Ischemic Stroke:

• Caused by a blockage or clot in a blood vessel leading to the brain, resulting in insufficient oxygen supply to the brain tissue.
• Accounts for 87% of all strokes.
• There are two major types of ischemic stroke: thrombotic strokes (caused by a blood clot forming in an artery leading to the brain) and embolic strokes (caused by a blood clot or plaque debris from elsewhere in the body).
• Symptoms may include muscle weakness, paralysis on one side of the body, trouble speaking, lack of coordination, and visual changes.

Hemorrhagic Stroke:

• Caused by bleeding into the brain tissue due to a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.
• Accounts for 13% of all strokes.
• Can be further divided into two main categories: intracerebral hemorrhage (a weak blood vessel breaks inside the brain) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (a weak blood vessel breaks on the surface of the brain).
• Symptoms may include sudden, severe headache, vomiting, seizure, weakness on one side of the face or body, and/or rapid deterioration in neurological function or consciousness.

Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate attention to prevent further brain damage and complications.

Comparative Table: Ischemic vs Hemorrhagic Stroke

Ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are two main types of strokes that can occur. They have different causes and require different treatments. Here is a table highlighting the differences between the two:

Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate attention. The sooner treatment is started, the higher the chance of a positive outcome.