Can a blocked blood vessel cause a stroke?
Plaques that rupture cause the formation of blood clots that can block blood flow or break off and travel to another part of the body. In either of these cases, if a clot blocks a blood vessel that feeds the heart, it causes a heart attack. If it blocks a blood vessel that feeds the brain, it causes a stroke.
What happens to blood vessels during a stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or bursts. The brain relies on a network of blood vessels to provide it with blood that is rich in oxygen. In a stroke, there is a lack of blood supply that causes surrounding nerve cells to be cut off from their supply of nutrients and oxygen.
What causes blocked blood vessels in the brain?
The narrowing is caused by a buildup and hardening of fatty deposits called plaque. This process is known as atherosclerosis. A stroke occurs when plaque causes the artery to become blocked and that area of the brain is deprived of blood, which damages and kills nerves in the brain.
What are 4 signs of a stroke?
Signs of Stroke in Men and Women
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
What happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked?
Brain cells do not get the nutrients they need if blood flow to the brain is reduced or stopped. This can prevent them from working correctly. Blood flow that stops for long enough can damage or kill brain cells. This can cause a stroke.
What happens right before a stroke?
The warning signs of stroke include: Weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, usually on one side of the body. Trouble speaking or understanding. Problems with vision, such as dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes.