Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, leading to bleeding inside or around the brain.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, a TIA is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke but usually lasts only a few minutes and causes no permanent damage