What type of stroke is characterized by a blockage in a blood vessel?

An ischemic stroke is characterized by a blockage in a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain. This blockage can occur due to a clot that develops within an artery (known as a thrombus) or when a clot travels from another part of the body and obstructs a cerebral artery (this is called an embolism). The lack of blood flow to the affected area of the brain deprives it of oxygen and nutrients, leading to brain cell death and resulting in the neurological deficits associated with stroke symptoms.

In contrast, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to bleeding in or around the brain, which is fundamentally different from a blockage. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), while related, is characterized by temporary blockages that resolve quickly, thereby not causing permanent damage. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, while it involves a blockage, specifically affects the venous system of the brain and is less common as a type of stroke compared to ischemic stroke. Understanding the mechanisms of stroke types is essential for appropriate treatment and management.