What percentage of strokes are hemorrhagic strokes?

Hemorrhagic strokes account for approximately 15% of all stroke cases. This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. While ischemic strokes, which result from a blockage of a blood vessel, make up the majority of strokes (around 85%), hemorrhagic strokes represent a smaller but significant portion.

Understanding the prevalence of hemorrhagic strokes is crucial for paramedics and healthcare providers as it informs assessment and treatment protocols. Rapid identification and management of hemorrhagic strokes can be critical, given the different interventions required compared to ischemic strokes. The knowledge that 15% of strokes are hemorrhagic emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with this type of stroke, as they can differ from those of an ischemic stroke.