Basically, silent strokes occur when small blood vessels in the brain become blocked or rupture. But eventually, as blood and oxygen supply to the brain diminishes, cells die. This can lead to problems with memory or concentration. It can also create mood changes and lead to depression. Because of this, the American Stroke Association says seniors should be monitored more carefully for depression since depression may indicate that a silent stroke has already occurred.
Depression can also develop after a major stroke.
A hemorrhagic stroke is very dangerous because the accumulated blood from the burst artery may put pressure on surrounding brain tissue and interfere with how the brain functions. Some 80 percent of all strokes are caused by clots. There are now drugs that can help with this type of stroke. Thrombolysis is the term used for the breaking up of a clot and in drug therapy, a clot-dissolving agent is often injected. There are a number of drugs used depending on the situation and the patient.