302 - 781 - 2881

learn about Stroke
Thank you for stepping into the world of Stroke with compassion. Memory, behavior, and connection may shift — but dignity and love remain. Your willingness to learn helps families feel seen and supported.

You can request more information or get help in finding care by clicking the buttons below.

learn about stroke

Variant's of Stroke

Did you know there are different types of stoke?

Explore the variations and learn what makes each one unique.

Ischemic stroke

Caused by a blocked blood vessel.

What makes it different?

Most common type — about 85% of strokes.

Thrombotic stroke

A clot forms inside a brain artery.

What makes it different?

Usually linked to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Embolic stroke

A clot travels from another part of the body to the brain.

What makes it different?

Often caused by heart conditions like atrial fibrillation.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Bleeding inside the brain.

What makes it different?

More severe and sudden, caused by ruptured vessels.

Intracerebral hemorrhage

Bleeding directly into brain tissue.

What makes it different?

Often linked to high blood pressure.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

Bleeding in the space around the brain.

What makes it different?

Usually caused by a ruptured aneurysm and presents with a “thunderclap” headache.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

A temporary blockage with stroke‑like symptoms that resolve within minutes to hours.

What makes it different?

No permanent damage — but a major warning sign for future stroke.

Learn About Stroke

Frequently Asked Questions

All information is based on public, widely accepted knowledge and is written for education and awareness only, not diagnosis.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes. 

What causes a stroke?

A stroke can occur in two main ways:

  • Blocked artery (ischemic stroke)

  • Burst or leaking blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke)

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) happens when blood flow is briefly blocked. 

What are the main types of stroke?

The major stroke types include:

  • Ischemic stroke (most common)

  • Thrombotic stroke

  • Embolic stroke

  • Hemorrhagic stroke

  • Intracerebral hemorrhage

  • Subarachnoid hemorrhage

  • Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

Each type affects the brain differently. 

What are the warning signs of a stroke?

A simple way to remember the signs is FAST:

  • Face drooping

  • Arm weakness

  • Speech difficulty

  • Time to call 911

Other signs include sudden numbness, vision changes, dizziness, or a severe headache with no known cause.

What should I do if I think someone is having a stroke?

Call 911 immediately.

Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.

Note the time symptoms began — this helps emergency responders determine treatment options. 

How is a stroke diagnosed?

This is a FAQ description. Add more detail about this service, such as benefits, appearance, components and value

What are common risk factors for stroke?

Public health sources list the following major risk factors:

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol

  • Diabetes

  • Smoking

  • Obesity

  • Physical inactivity

  • Excessive alcohol use

  • Atrial fibrillation

  • Family history of stroke

Are strokes preventable?

Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and proper medical care, according to stroke awareness organizations. 

What are the long‑term effects of a stroke?

Effects depend on the type, severity, and location of the stroke.

Common effects include:

  • Weakness or paralysis

  • Speech or language difficulties

  • Memory or thinking changes

  • Vision problems

  • Balance issues

  • Emotional changes

Can younger adults have strokes?

Yes. While most strokes occur in older adults, stroke rates are rising in adults under 49. 

How can families support someone after a stroke?

Helpful approaches include:

  • Encouraging rehabilitation exercises

  • Keeping pathways clear for safety

  • Using simple communication

  • Offering emotional support

  • Helping with daily tasks as needed

Recovery looks different for everyone.

When should someone seek help?

Immediately — stroke symptoms are always a medical emergency.

Call 911 at the first sign.

D.A.P.S. Educational & Awareness Disclaimer

The D.A.P.S. Circle of Hope Foundation provides educational and awareness materials to help families, caregivers, and communities better understand dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and related conditions.

All information we provide is for educational and awareness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. It is based on publicly available, widely accepted medical knowledge. It is general in nature and not specific to any individual person.

D.A.P.S. does not provide medical, legal, or clinical services.

If you have concerns about symptoms, health changes, or medical conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

D.A.P.S. Circle of Hope Foundation is committed to spreading awareness, supporting families, and honoring individuals affected by dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, stroke, and related conditions. Our goal is to empower communities through education, compassion, and hope.

We do not

  • Diagnose any condition

  • Offer medical treatment recommendations

  • Replace professional evaluation

  • Provide individualized health advice

Only licensed healthcare professionals can diagnose or treat medical conditions.

All information is drawn from publicly accessible, reputable sources; Intended to increase understanding and awareness; Reviewed for clarity and accuracy; and, Not proprietary or confidential medical content.

Readers should use this information to:

Learn

Ask informed questions

Seek appropriate professional care

Support loved ones with compassion and understanding