A stroke is the result of blood flow being blocked from part of the brain. When the brain is deprived of blood and oxygen, the cells begin to die. A massive stroke can result in paralysis of one side of the body, inability to speak, memory loss, coma or even death. Brain attacks and cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) are other commonly used names for a massive stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States.

There are two types of massive stroke. An ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke, and happens when a clot develops in an artery that supplies the brain with blood. Blood clots are usually the result of other problems and can form as the result of a hardening of the arteries due to diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or smoking. Heart valve problems and infections, irregular heart rhythms, heart attacks, or blood-clotting disorders may also be responsible for the clots that cause ischemic strokes.

The second type of stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by bleeding inside the brain. This may be the result of long-term high blood pressure or a ruptured cerebral aneurysm. Other less-common causes of a hemorrhagic stroke include inflammation of the blood vessels due to diseases such as syphilis, tuberculosis, or Lyme disease; blood-clotting disorders; a head, neck, or brain injury; or neck or brain cancer radiation treatment.

A massive stroke can occur very quickly, and the faster a stroke is treated, the lower the likelihood of severe permanent damage. Many individuals experience transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or mini-strokes prior to the onset of a major stroke. Seeking immediate medical treatment for a TIA may reduce the risk of a following massive stroke.

Symptoms of a TIA or stroke are usually sudden and often short in duration. The symptoms are often contained to a particular side of the body, so any sudden numbness, weakness, paralysis, or vision problems on one side of the body could be a serious stroke symptom. Other symptoms include slurred speech, trouble walking, confusion, dizziness, or a sudden severe headache. Any of these symptoms should be taken seriously, and prompt medical attention is vitally important to preventing or minimizing the effects of a massive stroke.

There are many treatment options available for those who have suffered a massive stroke, and it is quite possible for stroke patients to live normal lives after the incident, especially if treatment is administered quickly. An ischemic stroke is generally treated immediately with clot-dissolving medications and medications to regulate blood sugar levels and fever. Immediate treatments for a hemorrhagic stroke include medications to control blood pressure, fever, swelling, and blood sugar levels. If the bleeding inside the brain is severe or if the stroke was caused by a ruptured aneurysm, surgery may be needed to remove the blood or repair the aneurysm. Ongoing treatment for massive stroke patients may include rehabilitation programs, along with medications to regulate blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.