A stroke is a medical emergency that happens when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. When brain cells don’t get enough oxygen and nutrients, they begin to die within minutes, which can affect how the body works—like speaking, moving, seeing, or thinking.

There are three main types of stroke:

    1. Ischemic stroke (most common):
      Caused by a blockage, usually a blood clot, in a blood vessel supplying the brain.
    2. Hemorrhagic stroke:
      Happens when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds.
    3. TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) or “mini-stroke”:
      A temporary blockage that causes stroke-like symptoms but doesn’t last long. It’s a serious warning sign that a major stroke could happen.

Common stroke symptoms (think FAST):

      • Face drooping
      • Arm weakness
      • Speech difficulty
      • Time to call emergency services immediately

The faster a stroke is treated, the better the chance of survival and recovery. Even symptoms that go away should never be ignored.