The difference between stroke and cerebral infarction lies in stroke being a broad term encompassing cerebral infarction (blockage) and cerebral hemorrhage (rupture), while cerebral infarction specifically refers to ischemic blockage only. This article details official definitions, cause-symptom-treatment differences, and support system applications for accurate understanding and response strategies.

Official Definition of Stroke

Stroke occurs when a brain blood vessel is blocked or ruptured, causing brain damage and neurological symptoms. It is mainly divided into ischemic (cerebral infarction) and hemorrhagic (cerebral hemorrhage), with cerebral infarction comprising the majority. “Cerebrovascular accident” is a misspelling or synonym, but the official term is stroke.

Characteristics of Cerebral Infarction

Cerebral infarction is an ischemic stroke where a brain vessel is blocked by a thrombus or embolus, cutting off blood supply to brain tissue. Types include thrombotic, embolic, and lacunar, with major risk factors being hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Symptoms involve sudden paralysis and speech impairment, with thrombolytic treatment critical within 4.5 hours of onset.

Cause Differences Between Stroke and Cerebral Infarction

Stroke arises from blockage (cerebral infarction) or hemorrhage (cerebral hemorrhage), but cerebral infarction mainly stems from atherosclerosis or cardiac emboli. Cerebral hemorrhage often results from hypertension-induced vessel rupture. Hypertension is a common risk factor, though smoking and hyperlipidemia more strongly influence cerebral infarction. Cerebral infarction accounts for 70-85% of strokes versus 15-30% hemorrhagic, with causes like thrombi-emboli-atherosclerosis emphasized, and diabetes-hyperlipidemia as key risks. Hemorrhagic strokes have higher fatality, while infarction risks higher recurrence.

Symptom and Diagnosis Process Differences

Stroke and cerebral infarction symptoms overlap, but infarction typically shows hemiplegia, facial droop (FACE), arm weakness (ARM), and speech issues (SPEECH). Diagnosis starts with CT to rule out hemorrhage: infarction may appear normal initially, requiring MRI follow-up. Hemorrhage shows immediately on CT.

Treatment and Emergency Response Differences

Cerebral infarction treatment uses thrombolytics or thrombectomy (strict time limits) plus antiplatelets. Overall stroke varies by type, with hemorrhage needing surgery and blood pressure control. Common emergency is 119 call and FAST self-check. Special calculation exceptions apply to infarction (NIHSS 5+ within 24 hours) or specific cerebrovascular surgeries for up to 30 days, subject to policy changes—confirmation required.

Cerebral infarction exceptions cover severe inpatients (NIHSS 5+ within 24 hours) at 5% copay for up to 30 days. High-severity hemorrhage also qualifies, varying by surgery. Catastrophic medical aid supports up to 20 million won for excessive costs based on income, prioritizing low-income for medical aid. Annual criteria may vary—official verification essential.

Must-Check Items Before Applying for Stroke and Cerebral Infarction Support

Review latest details on official government institution websites before applying for stroke and cerebral infarction support.

• Income-asset thresholds (exceptions, catastrophic aid eligibility).
• NIHSS score and symptom onset timing for exception qualification.
• Current year application periods and copay rate caps.
• Medical aid eligibility and designated facility lists.
• Deadlines and required documents (e.g., within 180 days post-discharge).

Practical Steps for Stroke and Cerebral Infarction Response

If stroke or cerebral infarction is suspected, call 119 immediately for hospital transfer. Post-treatment, check eligibility for exceptions or catastrophic aid via official government or public notices tailored to your situation. Policies may revise annually, so reference latest announcements for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are stroke and cerebral infarction the same?

Stroke includes infarction and hemorrhage, but infarction is blockage type only.

What are cerebral infarction exception criteria?

NIHSS 5+ within 24 hours for up to 30 days—confirm latest standards.

Stroke treatment cost support differences?

Similar, but exceptions vary by severity and surgery.

How to prevent cerebral infarction?

Key is hypertension management and smoking cessation lifestyle changes.

CT vs MRI differences in emergencies?

CT distinguishes hemorrhage; MRI added for suspected infarction.