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The speed of onset, intensity of headache, and presentation of paralysis differ critically among the three types of stroke: Ischemic Stroke (vessel blockage), Intracerebral Hemorrhage (vessel rupture), and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (aneurysm rupture). Knowing these symptom differences provides vital information for doctors to make a rapid diagnosis in an emergency setting where every minute counts.

Stroke is categorized into three types: Cerebral Infarction (vessel blockage), Intracerebral Hemorrhage (vessel rupture), and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (aneurysm rupture). Each has a completely different onset mechanism, typical symptoms, and a distinct "golden hour" for treatment. Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, which involve sudden, dramatic symptoms, are particularly associated with high mortality rates.

Stroke is largely categorized into three types: Cerebral Infarction (Ischemic Stroke), Intracerebral Hemorrhage, and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage. Each possesses distinct mechanisms and treatment approaches. While Cerebral Infarction (approx. 70–75%), where a vessel is blocked, is the most common in Japan, Intracerebral Hemorrhage (vessel rupture) and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (aneurysm rupture) have high fatality rates and are characterized by greater urgency.

Stroke is the leading cause of the need for long-term care in Japan, affecting over 100,000 people annually. It is divided into two major types: Cerebral Infarction (ischemic stroke, 70–80%), where a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, and Intracerebral Hemorrhage or Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (20–30%), where a blood vessel ruptures. The response immediately after onset for either type significantly influences the rest of the patient's life.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH), classified as a type of "stroke," is covered by medical and life insurance policies. It is particularly advantageous if the policy includes a rider for Critical Illnesses (Cancer, Acute Myocardial Infarction, and Stroke). The benefit amount varies based on the contract details (daily hospitalization benefit, surgical payout, and riders). The average hospital stay is 2–4 months (approx. 60–120 days). You can reduce the financial burden by combining the payout with the public health insurance's High-Cost Medical Care Benefits (monthly cap ≈¥80,000). Below are typical benefit examples and precautions. For actual amounts, consult your policy or insurance company.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) requires advanced, time-sensitive treatments like Coil Embolization and Clipping Surgery, leading to total medical costs potentially reaching several million yen. This financial aspect can be a significant source of anxiety for patients and their families.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) requires emergency surgery, but the subsequent length of hospitalization varies greatly depending on the treatment method and severity. Notably, as of 2025, the shift to Coil Embolization (which is less invasive) as the dominant treatment has led to a general trend of shorter hospital stays compared to the past.

Treatment for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) does not end with curative surgery for the aneurysm. Subsequent rehabilitation determines the patient's social reintegration and Quality of Life (QOL). Unlike Intracerebral Hemorrhage, rehabilitation after SAH places critical importance on managing higher brain dysfunctions, such as memory impairment and chronic fatigability.

There was a time when surviving Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) was considered "lucky." However, as of 2025, with appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, it has become a disease where approximately 60% of patients can return to a nearly normal life. Yet, the reality is that many survivors still suffer from less visible residual deficits, such as memory impairment and chronic fatigue.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH) is an extremely dangerous disease with a high fatality rate upon onset. Fortunately, many actions have been scientifically proven to be effective in prevention. Specifically, "Smoking Cessation" and "Strict Blood Pressure Management" are the most powerful strategies to reduce the risk of SAH by more than half.