A stroke happens when the blood supply to the
brain is interrupted. It is a potentially life-threatening
condition that needs immediate medical attention.
If the supply of blood to the brain is
restricted or stopped, the brain cells will begin to die. This can
lead to brain damage and possibly death.
If you think you, or someone you know
is suffering from a stroke you need to call 999 for an
ambulance immediately.
A stroke is also sometimes called a brain
attack, because it is just as life-threatening as a heart attack
and has similar causes.
There is also a related condition known as a
transient ischaemic attack (TIA), where the
supply of blood to the brain is temporarily interrupted, causing a
sort of 'mini-stroke'. TIAs should be treated very seriously as
they are often a warning sign that a more serious stroke is to
come.
In this section find out more about: