A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, with a blood clot or blocked artery being the culprit in around 80% of cases. Damage to the blood arteries themselves is another potential cause of strokes, as brain cells cannot get enough oxygen for optimum functioning without sufficient blood flow. The length of time a stroke causes a halt is directly proportional to the severity of its effects. A mini-stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), happens when a blood vessel briefly becomes blocked.Approximately four out of every ten patients who encounter a TIA will have a stroke. A big stroke may result in serious symptoms, including long-term difficulties due to damage to brain cells. A stroke may be fatal if not obtained quick medical assistance.

The sooner you get therapy, the better your chances of a successful recovery.
Causes of stroke include oxygen and nourishment, which can lead to disability, major brain damage, or even death. There are two primary forms of strokes: ischemic stroke, which accounts for 85% of all stroke cases, and hemorrhagic strokes, which involve the rupture of a blood artery that supplies the brain. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a rare type of stroke in which the blood supply to the brain is abruptly disturbed.

To identify early warning signs of a stroke, remember the FAST acronym, which includes facial drooping, arm weakness or numbness, and speech issues. These symptoms can develop rapidly, but it does not mean you will not have time to react. Some people exhibit symptoms such as headaches, numbness, or tingling several days before experiencing a major stroke.
If you feel you or someone else is suffering from a TIA or stroke, obtain medical assistance at once. A stroke is a medical emergency, and the sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of a successful recovery. Treatment will be chosen by the type of stroke, the affected area of the brain, and the severity of the symptoms. Long-term treatment may be required to avoid future strokes and aid in recovery.

Strokes can occur anywhere, including at a dinner table or during a party. Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial for saving someone's life. The first step is to learn to notice these unmistakable indicators, such as face drooping, lack of arm control, and slurred speech.
When caring for someone undergoing a stroke, follow these dos and don'ts:
1. Don't drive to the hospital; call paramedics. Responding paramedics may be sent to a recognized stroke center with experienced doctors available 24/7.
2. Do not give the person aspirin, as it can worsen many strokes. A CT scan is necessary to determine which group a stroke victim belongs to.
3. Do not serve the person food or water, as stroke may interfere with muscle control, especially swallowing.
4. Dial 9-1-1 immediately, as every minute that the brain is deprived of oxygen leads to the death of roughly 1.9 million neurons.
5. Use the word'stroke' when interacting with the emergency dispatcher, as it gives paramedics and the hospital more time to prepare.
6. Write down the time, as knowing when symptoms initially arose can help doctors choose the appropriate course of treatment.
7. Help the person lie down, as a stroke may result in confusion, problems controlling movement, and even paralysis.
8. Loosen restricting clothes, avoid twisting or straining weak limbs, check for a pulse and breathing, and perform CPR if necessary.
9. Unlock the front door, ensuring access to the prospective stroke patient.
10. Keep calm and remain by the person's side, reassure them that relief is on its way.