What is the most common type of stroke?

The most common type of stroke is ischemic stroke, which accounts for approximately 87% of all strokes. Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, usually due to a blood clot. This interruption in blood flow deprives brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cell death and subsequent neurological deficits.

Understanding the prevalence of ischemic strokes is critical, as it informs approaches to prevention, treatment, and management. Risk factors for ischemic stroke often include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation. This emphasizes the importance of regular medical check-ups and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of such strokes.

While hemorrhagic strokes, which result from a ruptured blood vessel, and transient ischemic attacks, which are temporary disruptions in blood flow, are significant, they occur less frequently compared to ischemic strokes. Aneurysmal stroke, a type of hemorrhagic stroke, also represents a smaller subset of stroke cases. Recognizing ischemic stroke as the most common type helps clinicians and healthcare providers prioritize effective prevention and intervention strategies within the broader context of stroke care.