What Causes a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die within minutes—making stroke a serious medical emergency.

Understanding the causes of stroke is key not only for prevention but also for recognizing the warning signs early.


The Two Main Types of Stroke

  1. Ischemic Stroke
    This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It happens when a blood clot blocks or narrows a blood vessel in the brain.

    • Causes include:

      • Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)

      • Blood clots (often from the heart or neck arteries)

      • Irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation

  2. Hemorrhagic Stroke
    This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding in or around the brain.

    • Causes include:

      • High blood pressure

      • Aneurysms

      • Head trauma

      • Blood-thinning medications


Other Stroke-Related Conditions

  • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a "mini-stroke," a TIA occurs when the blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked. Although it resolves on its own, it’s a serious warning sign of a future stroke.

  • Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: A rare type of stroke caused by a clot in the brain’s venous sinuses.


Who Is at Risk?

While strokes can happen to anyone, some factors increase your risk significantly:

  • High blood pressure (the #1 cause)

  • Smoking

  • Diabetes

  • High cholesterol

  • Obesity or sedentary lifestyle

  • Family history of stroke

  • Birth control pills (especially when combined with smoking)

  • Heart disease or atrial fibrillation

Even young adults can suffer strokes due to factors like genetic conditions, trauma, or clotting disorders.


Can Stroke Be Prevented?

Yes—up to 80% of strokes are preventable with lifestyle changes and proper medical care. Controlling blood pressure, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, staying active, and managing conditions like diabetes and heart disease can drastically reduce risk.


Recovering from Stroke with ReHAND™

Recovery doesn’t stop at the hospital. For many stroke survivors, regaining function in the hand is one of the most difficult—and most important—parts of rehabilitation.

That’s where ReHAND™ comes in.

ReHAND™ is a smart, easy-to-use rehabilitation glove designed to support stroke survivors in regaining hand strength, mobility, and coordination right from home. Whether you're struggling with stiffness, weakness, or spasticity, ReHAND™ offers multiple modes—including passive training, mirror mode, and adjustable strength levels—to guide and support your recovery every step of the way.

✅ Improve circulation and flexibility
✅ Reduce spasticity and stiffness
✅ Boost motor control and brain stimulation
✅ Train safely at home with therapist-recommended features


Take your first step toward hand recovery.
Visit www.re-hand.com to explore how ReHAND™ can support you or your loved one on the road to independence and strength.

Your recovery is worth it. And it’s never too late to begin. 🧠💪