Which type of stroke is caused by a blockage in the blood vessel?

The type of stroke caused by a blockage in a blood vessel is known as an ischemic stroke. This occurs when an artery supplying blood to the brain becomes narrowed or obstructed, often due to a blood clot or a buildup of fatty deposits, which ultimately restricts blood flow to the brain tissue. As a result, brain cells begin to die due to lack of oxygen and nutrients, leading to the symptoms of a stroke.

Understanding the nature of ischemic strokes is crucial because they account for approximately 87% of all strokes. Timely medical intervention can often restore blood flow, minimizing damage and improving recovery outcomes. Recognizing ischemic strokes and differentiating them from other types, such as hemorrhagic strokes—which are caused by bleeding in the brain—further emphasizes the importance of identifying the cause of a stroke for effective treatment.

In contrast, terms like cerebral stroke, apoplexy, and concussion do not specifically denote a blockage in blood vessels. Cerebral stroke is a broader term that encompasses both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Apoplexy traditionally refers to a sudden loss of consciousness due to a stroke but does not specify its cause. Concussion is related to traumatic brain injury and is not a type of stroke at all.