WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Ischemic stroke

Illustration copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. www.nucleusinc.com

An ischemic stroke develops when a blood vessel (artery) supplying blood to an area of the brain becomes blocked by a blood clot. The clot may form in the blood vessel (thrombus) or travel from somewhere else in the blood system (embolus).

About 80% of all strokes are ischemic strokes. They are the most common type of stroke in older adults.

Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Karin M. Lindholm, DO - Neurology
Last Updated February 26, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 26, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.