A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident, occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to damage and malfunctioning of brain cells. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke.

In an ischemic stroke, a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain, cutting off the flow of oxygen and nutrients to that region. This can happen when a blood clot forms in another part of the body, usually the heart or arteries, and travels to the brain. It can also occur when a plaque buildup narrows the blood vessels in the brain.

On the other hand, a hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding into the surrounding brain tissue. This can be caused by conditions like high blood pressure, weak blood vessels, or head trauma.

Regardless of the type, a stroke can have serious consequences. The symptoms vary depending on the area of the brain affected but can include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding, severe headache, dizziness, and loss of balance.

Immediate medical attention is crucial when someone is experiencing a stroke. Time is of the essence because prompt medical intervention can help minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery. Treatment may involve medications to dissolve the blood clot or surgery to repair damaged blood vessels.

Preventing strokes involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, and not smoking.