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Wirral Stroke

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What is stroke?
illustration (human brain)

What is stroke?



Stroke is a type of brain injury.





There are two main types of stroke.

  • An ischaemic stroke occurs when a blockage in a blood vessel stops blood from reaching the brain.

    illustration (blocked blood vessel)
  • A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts allowing blood to leak into the brain.

    illustration (blood leaking into the brain)

    • What is a transient ischaemic attack?

    A transient ischaemic attack is sometimes called a TIA or a mini-stroke. It can occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is temporarily cut off. There may be weakness in the limbs or speech and visual problems, all of which disappear within 24 hours.

    A TIA is a warning sign. Unless preventative measures are taken, a further and perhaps major stroke is likely to occur soon Ref ³.

    How common is stroke?

    Stroke is one of the top three causes of death in England and a leading cause of adult disability. Each year approximately 110,000 people have their first stroke and 30,000 have secondary strokes. A further 20,000 people have transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs). At least 300,000 people in England live with moderate to severe disabilities as a result of stroke Ref ³.

    Approximately 800 stroke patients are admitted to Wirral hospitals each year. About 150 - 200 have had transient ischaemic attacks.