Skip to content
WebMD: Better information. Better health.
 
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Medical Dictionary

Stroke Health Center

Font Size
A
A
A

Stroke

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

A stroke is a sudden disruption in blood flow to the brain caused by a blockage or bleeding of a blood vessel. Areas of the brain that are affected by the blockage or bleeding can become damaged within minutes. The effects of a stroke may be mild or severe and temporary or permanent. The effects depend on which brain cells are damaged, how much of the brain is involved, and how quickly the blood supply is restored to the area.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Howard Schaff, MD - Diagnostic Radiology
Last Revised December 4, 2010

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: December 04, 2010
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.

Today in Stroke

Understanding Stroke
SLIDESHOW
Lowering Blood Pressure Slideshow
SLIDESHOW
 
most common stroke symptoms
ARTICLE
Stroke Recovery
ARTICLE
 

blood vessels in brain
Article
Senior woman practicing yoga with trainer
Article
 
Sliced apple and pear
Article
quit smoking tips
Slideshow
 

Heart Foods Slideshow
SLIDESHOW
Soy For High BP
VIDEO
 
BP Medicine
VIDEO
Lowering Cholesterol Slideshow
SLIDESHOW
 

WebMD Special Sections