What Causes a Stroke? Understanding the Risks and Taking Control
May 14, 2025
May Is National Stroke Awareness Month
Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a major cause of serious disability in the United States, affecting nearly 800,000 people each year according to the CDC. While stroke can happen suddenly, there’s often a complex story behind that critical moment, one that involves risk factors, lifestyle choices, and preventative opportunities.
Understanding how and why strokes occur is key to reducing risk and saving lives.
How Does a Stroke Happen?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to begin dying within minutes. There are two main types:
- Ischemic Stroke (87% of cases): Caused by a blood clot or plaque buildup that blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a ruptured blood vessel that bleeds into the brain.
A third type, Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke”, is temporary but still a warning sign of future stroke risk.
What Causes a Stroke?
Strokes don’t just happen out of nowhere. They’re often the result of underlying conditions or modifiable risk factors:
Most Common Stroke Risk Factors:
- High blood pressure – the leading cause of stroke
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Obesity and lack of physical activity
- Heart disease or irregular heartbeats (like atrial fibrillation)
- Heavy alcohol use
- Poor diet (high in salt, processed foods, or saturated fats)
Certain non-modifiable factors like age, family history, and race/ethnicity also increase risk. Black and Hispanic adults are statistically at higher risk, and stroke risk increases significantly after age 55.
For more data on stroke causes and risk profiles, visit the American Stroke Association.
Prevention Is Possible: Steps You Can Take
According to the CDC, 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and managing chronic conditions.
Simple Prevention Tips:
- Monitor blood pressure and take prescribed medications if needed
- Manage diabetes through regular checkups and diet
- Quit smoking
- Exercise regularly – at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
- Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet
- Limit alcohol
- Get screened for atrial fibrillation and high cholesterol
If you’re unsure of your risk, talk to your healthcare provider about a stroke risk assessment.
Stroke Recovery at CHS
At Catholic Health Services, we provide comprehensive stroke rehabilitation for patients recovering from a stroke. Our expert team—made up of physical, occupational, and speech therapists—develops personalized care plans to help individuals rebuild strength, mobility, communication, and independence.
We also offer:
- Skilled nursing care for patients with ongoing medical needs
- Home health services for support during recovery at home
- Support groups for stroke survivors and their families
You Can Take Control
This Stroke Awareness Month, take the time to understand how strokes happen and how they can be prevented. Small lifestyle changes today could save a life tomorrow.
Need help after a stroke or want to lower your risk? Learn more about our full range of stroke care at Catholic Health Services by visiting our Continuum of Care.