Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die.
Related terms
Ischemic Stroke: This type of stroke happens when blood flow through the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a 'mini-stroke', it's caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain.