Stroke Treatment
In leading causes of U.S. death, stroke used to rank fourth. Now it's fifth.
The higher survival rates are largely due to medical treatment advances. The right care — done the right away — can save both lives and quality of life.
The type of treatment depends on the type of stroke.
Ischemic Stroke
happens when a clot blocks a vessel supplying blood to the brain. It's the most common type, accounting for 87% of all strokes. The treatment goal is to bust or remove the clot.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
is caused by a rupture in a blood vessel within the brain. Fewer strokes happen as the result of a rupture. The treatment goal is to stop the bleeding.
Recovery and Risk Reduction to Prevent a Second Stroke
Steps taken after your stroke are important in helping you achieve the best possible recovery and independence. The good news is that 80% of strokes in adults are preventable; however, after having a stroke, risks are much higher for having another one. Preventing a second stroke can be the most important treatment of all.
More Resources
Updated Guidelines for Treating Acute Ischemic Strokes
Current guidelines could make more stroke patients eligible for treatment. Learn about the update and use our Acute Ischemic Stroke Toolkit to put them to work.
Prevent Another Stroke
One in 4 stroke survivors will have another. Yet, up to 80% of strokes may be prevented with a combination of medications and healthy habits. Use these resources to help prevent a second stroke.
Recent Stroke? You Don’t Have to Do It Alone.
Many people recover from stroke. Learn from those who met their recovery goals and find post-stroke resources.