stroke

Definition

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes.

Analogy

Imagine your brain as a bustling city where roads (blood vessels) transport essential supplies (oxygen and nutrients) to various districts (brain regions). If one road suddenly gets blocked (ischemic stroke) or a water main bursts (hemorrhagic stroke), parts of the city can't function properly, leading to damage in those areas.

Related terms

Ischemic Stroke: An ischemic stroke happens when an artery to the brain is blocked, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the brain.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, leading to bleeding inside or around the brain.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, a TIA is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke but usually lasts only a few minutes and causes no permanent damage