What Is Stroke

A stroke is often called a "brain attack" because it occurs suddenly and requires immediate medical attention. It is caused by an unexpected interruption in the brain's blood and oxygen supply.

Strokes can have various effects, ranging from death to lifelong disability. The outcome depends on how quickly medical help is received, the location of the stroke in the brain, how many cells are affected, and which part of the body is controlled by the damaged area of the brain.