Stroke, also called brain attack, occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients in order to function. Even a brief interruption in blood supply can cause problems.
Brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without blood or oxygen.
The area of dead cells in tissues is called an infarct. Due to both the physical and chemical changes that occur in the brain with stroke, damage can continue to occur for several days. A loss of brain function occurs with brain cell death. This may include impaired ability with movement, speech, thinking and memory, bowel and bladder, eating, emotional control, and other vital body functions. Recovery from stroke and the specific ability affected depends on the size and location of the stroke.