Ictus cerebral translates directly to stroke in English. A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients.
Understanding Stroke
A stroke, sometimes called a "brain attack," can be caused by:
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type and happens when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. According to the provided reference, a blood clot can form in a cerebral artery, or travel from elsewhere in the body to the brain causing a stroke. A thrombus (a stationary blood clot) can also form in smaller vessels, leading to mini-strokes.
- Hemorrhagic stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds.
Key Aspects of Stroke
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Cause | Blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain. |
| Consequences | Deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to brain tissue, leading to potential damage or death of brain cells. |
| Mini-Strokes | Result from a thrombus (stationary blood clot) in smaller vessels. |
