What type of stroke occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is blocked?

An ischemic stroke occurs when there is a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the brain, which prevents adequate blood flow and oxygen from reaching brain tissues. This type of stroke is the most common, accounting for approximately 87% of all strokes. The blockage can arise from a blood clot that forms in the artery (thrombotic stroke) or from a clot that forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain (embolic stroke). Understanding this mechanism is essential for identifying risk factors and implementing timely interventions to restore blood flow.

Ischemic strokes can lead to significant neurological deficits and require immediate medical attention to minimize brain damage and improve recovery outcomes. This is in contrast to other types of strokes, such as hemorrhagic strokes, which involve bleeding in the brain rather than a blockage. Recognizing the characteristics of an ischemic stroke is critical for healthcare professionals and is a key component of stroke education and prevention strategies.