A stroke is sometimes called a "brain attack," occurring when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted. When a stroke occurs, brain cells in the immediate area begin to die because they stop getting oxygen and the nutrients they need to survive.

TYPES OF STROKE

Ischemic stroke
It is caused by a blood clot that blocks or plugs a blood vessel or artery in the brain. Approximately 80% of all strokes are ischemic in nature.

Hemorrhagic stroke
It is caused by a blood vessel in the brain that bursts and then bleeds into the brain. About 20% of strokes are known to be hemorrhagic.

TIA
A TIA (transient ischemic attack) is a "warning stroke" sometimes called a "mini-stroke." TIA's occur when a blood clot temporarily clogs an artery and part of the brain does not get the blood it needs. TIA symptoms are the same as a stroke, but last a short time. Most TIA's last a few minutes. However, TIA's still need immediate medical treatment.