What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when brain cells are deprived of blood, either because a vessel is blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke, about 87% of US cases) or because a vessel ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). It's a leading cause of death and the top cause of serious long-term disability in the US.
What are the warning signs?
Remember BE FAST: Balance loss, Eyes (sudden vision loss), Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911. A TIA ("mini stroke") causes the same symptoms but resolves quickly—it's a major warning that a full stroke may follow, so get checked immediately.
Treatment and prevention
For ischemic stroke, clot-busting drugs (alteplase or tenecteplase) are given within 4.5 hours, and mechanical thrombectomy may be done up to 24 hours in selected patients (Powers et al., 2019). Prevention centers on controlling high blood pressure, treating atrial fibrillation, diabetes and high cholesterol, and quitting smoking.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Should I drive myself to the ER?
- No—call 911. EMS can alert the stroke team and start care on the way.
- Can young people have strokes?
- Yes. Artery tears, heart conditions, drug use and smoking can cause strokes in younger adults.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-25
References
- Powers, W. J., Rabinstein, A. A., Ackerson, T., et al. (2019). Guidelines for the early management of patients with acute ischemic stroke: 2019 update. Stroke, 50(12), e344–e418.
- GBD 2019 Stroke Collaborators. (2021). Global, regional, and national burden of stroke and its risk factors, 1990–2019. The Lancet Neurology, 20(10), 795–820.