What causes stroke?

An ischaemic stroke occurs when a clot blocks an artery supplying the brain. Atrial fibrillation can allow clots to form in the heart and travel to the brain. Narrowed or damaged arteries can also encourage blockage. A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a brain blood vessel leaks or bursts; long-term high blood pressure can weaken vessel walls. Type 2 diabetes can damage blood vessels and alter the way clotting and circulation are controlled. These conditions raise risk but do not make a stroke inevitable, and a stroke can occur without a previously known diagnosis.

Know your blood pressure, blood glucose, and heart-rhythm history, and take prescribed treatment as directed. Do not stop medicines without advice. Smoking, inactivity, and an unbalanced diet can add vascular strain, so ask a clinician for practical changes suited to you. Learn the sudden signs of stroke and keep emergency contact arrangements clear. If symptoms begin, note the time and seek emergency help immediately.

Call local emergency services at once for sudden facial drooping, weakness or numbness on one side, slurred or confused speech, difficulty understanding, new vision loss, severe dizziness, loss of balance, or a sudden severe headache. Do not wait for symptoms to improve and do not drive yourself. A transient ischaemic attack can cause temporary stroke-like symptoms and also needs urgent assessment.

Ask how your blood pressure, diabetes, or heart rhythm affects stroke risk, whether monitoring is needed, and which treatments reduce clot formation or vessel strain. Discuss smoking, activity, diet, and the warning signs that require emergency action.