Ischemic Stroke

Symptoms

• Hemiplegia (sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body), 

• confusion, 

• Aphasia (trouble speaking or understanding speech), 

• vision problems, 

• trouble walking, 

• dizziness,

• loss of balance, or coordination. 

Onset

Symptoms are sudden, often occurring without warning and vary depending on the brain region affected. A stroke in the right hemisphere may affect spatial awareness, while a left hemisphere stroke often affects language. They progress rapidly, within minutes to hours. 

Progression 

Immediate symptoms followed by stabilization or worsening over the first 24-48 hours. Damage can worsen if the clot is not dissolved or removed quickly. 

Prognosis

Prognosis varies based on severity, speed of treatment, and the brain area affected. Early treatment with thrombolytics (clot-busting drugs) or mechanical thrombectomy can significantly improve outcomes.

Survival

About 80-90% of ischemic stroke patients survive the acute event, but many are left with varying degrees of disability.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Symptoms

• Similar to ischemic strokes but may also include a severe, sudden headache (thunderclap headache), 

• nausea, 

• vomiting, 

• altered consciousness, and 

• seizures. 

Onset

Sudden and often dramatic, typically following the rupture of an aneurysm or a weakened blood vessel. 

Progression 

Damage can worsen if the bleeding is not stopped or drained quickly since it can worsen quickly due to increased intracranial pressure. 

Prognosis

Worse than ischemic strokes, with higher immediate mortality rates. 

Survival

Around 40-50% of patients die within 30 days, and survivors often face significant long-term disabilities. 

Rehabilitation

Essential for both types of stroke to recover motor, speech, and cognitive functions. The extent of recovery depends on the brain area affected and timely intervention.