What is an ischemic stroke?

An ischemic stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks the blood supply to a part of the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.

In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.

What is an ischemic stroke?

An ischemic stroke is the interruption of normal blood flow in the brain, which hinders or prevents the proper delivery of oxygen and other essential nutrients needed for its function.

In the most severe cases, if the ischemia is prolonged over time, patients may even be at risk of death. Without the necessary oxygen supply, brain cells die, leading to the failure of the organ.

An ischemic stroke can be of two main types. When the interruption of blood flow is caused by a clot in a brain vessel, experts refer to it as focal cerebral ischemia. However, when blood does not reach the brain due to cardiac arrest — meaning blood flow is significantly reduced or stops — the condition is known as global cerebral ischemia.

What can cause an ischemic stroke?

There is no single pattern that defines what causes ischemic strokes. Instead, multiple factors can influence their development. Among the most common are the following:

• Blood clots that reach the brain through the blood vessels.
• Tumors: by compressing veins and arteries, they hinder the normal flow of blood.
• Irregularities in the vessels: any alteration in veins and arteries can lead to the development of clots.
• Trauma: a strong blow to the head can rupture blood vessels and cause a clot.
• Heart problems: tachycardia, for example, can temporarily stop the blood flow to the brain. Congenital defects can also lead to ischemia.
• Atherosclerosis: the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

To prevent clots caused by unhealthy habits, it is important to remember that regular physical activity and a healthy lifestyle help maintain good health. Smoking blocks blood vessels and can therefore lead to clots that may reach the brain, causing an ischemic stroke.

Risks of ischemic stroke

Ischemic strokes must be treated immediately because they can cause severe consequences, some of which may be permanent.

Among the most common consequences of strokes are paralysis or loss of movement in the body or just one part of it, difficulty speaking, memory loss, inability to control emotions, loss of sensation or unusual pain in certain parts of the body, among other physical and emotional complications.

In the event of an ischemic stroke, go to the emergency department of a specialized medical center as soon as possible.

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