Strokes, also known as cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs), occur when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to brain cells dying within minutes. Strokes are a leading cause of paralysis, which is the loss of muscle function in part of the body. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic, caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain, and hemorrhagic, caused by a blood vessel bursting in the brain.

• The severity and location of the stroke determine the extent of paralysis, which can affect one side of the body (hemiplegia), specific muscle groups, or entire regions such as the face, arms, and legs. Immediate medical attention and treatment are crucial to minimize brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.

• Prevention strategies, such as controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and recognizing early signs of a stroke (such as sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty walking), are vital in reducing the risk of strokes and their disabling consequences.

Impact of Strokes on Paralysis

Hemiplegia:

• • Paralysis on one side of the body is a common outcome, often affecting the opposite side of where the stroke occurred in the brain.

Hemiparesis:

• • Partial paralysis or weakness on one side of the body.

Quadriplegia or Paraplegia:

• • In severe cases involving extensive brain damage, there may be paralysis of all four limbs (quadriplegia) or the lower half of the body (paraplegia).

Hemorrhagic Stroke:

• • Rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, leading to bleeding within or around the brain.

Common Types:

• Intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding within the brain tissue) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane).