Final answer:
Hemorrhagic strokes make up approximately 10 percent of all stroke cases and are characterized by bleeding in the brain due to a ruptured artery, which can cause severe neurological damage or death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hemorrhagic strokes account for about 10 percent of stroke cases and are often more fatal than ischemic strokes. These strokes occur when an artery in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding in the brain, which can then cause cell death due to lack of blood flow and increased pressure on the brain tissue.
Ischemic strokes are more common and result from blood clots obstructing blood flow to the brain, whereas hemorrhagic strokes involve bleeding due to a broken blood vessel. In hemorrhagic strokes, the accumulation of blood and subsequent edema, or swelling, can exert pressure on brain structures and lead to disruptions in normal brain function. This can result in severe neurological impairment or death, highlighting the gravity of this condition.
Stroke is a complex condition and is among the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Understanding the distinct types of stroke is critical for treatment and preventative measures. The primary difference lies in whether a blood clot or a ruptured blood vessel causes the interruption of blood supply to the brain.