A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This disruption causes brain cells in the affected area to die due to lack of oxygen and nutrients

. There are two main types of stroke:

• Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type, caused by a blood clot or other blockage that cuts off blood flow to the brain

• Hemorrhagic stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding inside or around the brain

A related condition is a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or "mini-stroke," where blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked, causing stroke-like symptoms that usually resolve within minutes to hours without permanent damage

. The effects of a stroke depend on the location and size of the brain area affected and can include problems with speech, movement, sensation, vision, and cognition. Strokes can cause lasting brain damage, disability, or death, and require urgent medical treatment to minimize harm

. In summary, a stroke is a sudden brain injury caused by either blockage or bleeding in brain blood vessels, leading to brain cell death and impaired body functions controlled by the affected brain region