What type of stroke is caused by blocked arteries?

An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, typically by a blood clot or a build-up of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis). This blockage prevents essential nutrients and oxygen from reaching brain tissue, leading to cell death and resulting in various neurological impairments. Understanding this type of stroke is crucial because it constitutes the majority of all strokes, making up about 87% of cases.

In contrast, hemorrhagic strokes arise from the rupture of blood vessels in the brain, leading to bleeding that compresses surrounding tissues. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often referred to as a mini-stroke, involves temporary blocked blood flow to the brain but usually resolves without permanent damage. A silent stroke refers to brain damage that occurs without noticeable symptoms but can be detected via imaging techniques. Each of these conditions differs significantly from an ischemic stroke, which is specifically linked to blockages that impede blood flow to the brain.