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Stroke
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A stroke happens when the brain's blood supply fails in one of two general ways. Picture a network of pipes: one can become blocked and slow the flow, or it can rupture and let blood escape. Stroke includes both possibilities.
When blood flow is lost, brain cells lose oxygen and nutrients. When a vessel ruptures, bleeding and swelling also damage tissue. The part of the brain involved, the extent of injury, and the type of stroke all shape the resulting effects.
In brief
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. It is a category that includes different mechanisms, not a term reserved only for a clot or only for bleeding.
Blockage or rupture.
If blood flow stops or decreases, brain cells no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients they need. When a vessel ruptures, bleeding and swelling also injure tissue. The effects depend on the area involved, the extent of injury, and the type of stroke; subtypes require separate explanations.
Sources (1)
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and StrokeStroke Overview
This page explains the topic in general terms; it does not tell anyone what treatment to follow.
Updated