A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked. When it reaches the brain it cuts off the brain's blood supply. The other common way for a stroke to happen is that a small blood vessel leaks and blood seeps into brain tissue. The brain needs oxygen, so when blood flow gets cut off, brain cells can die. The symptoms of a stroke depend on what part of the brain is affected.
Strokes can cause speech problems, weakness in any part of the body, or difficulty swallowing.
Unfortunately, clot busters need to be given to a patient within 3-4 hours of the stoke. So many people cannot have this kind of therapy. But almost all people can get rehabilitation after the stroke. Physical therapy works very well to speed up recovery, and helps stroke victims get back their strength and independence. Patients who suffer very large strokes may need to go to special rehabilitation hospitals.