Final Answer:
Subarachnoid hemorrhage is the type of stroke most likely to present with a sudden, severe headache. (option 4)
Step-by-step explanation:
A sudden, severe headache is a hallmark symptom of a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). This type of stroke occurs due to bleeding into the space surrounding the brain, specifically in the subarachnoid space. The most common cause of SAH is the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm. When an aneurysm ruptures, it leads to a rapid onset of a severe headache described as "the worst headache of my life." This intense headache often appears suddenly, reaching its peak intensity within seconds to minutes.
In contrast, other types of strokes, such as ischemic strokes, might present with various neurological symptoms but not necessarily with a sudden, severe headache as their primary feature. Ischemic strokes occur due to a blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain, leading to a lack of blood flow and subsequent damage to brain tissue. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are brief episodes caused by temporary disruptions in blood flow to the brain, often presenting as transient neurological deficits but not typically accompanied by severe headaches.
Recognizing the sudden onset of a severe headache as a potential sign of a subarachnoid hemorrhage is crucial for prompt medical evaluation and intervention, as SAH is a medical emergency requiring urgent treatment to prevent potentially severe complications.