A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, typically caused by blood clots or blocked arteries. This interruption prevents brain cells from receiving the oxygen they need, which can lead to their death. The effects of a stroke can vary depending on the duration of the interruption.
A mini-stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a temporary blockage of a blood vessel. Although the symptoms of a TIA may disappear quickly, they serve as a warning sign for a potentially more serious stroke. Surprisingly, 4 in 10 people who experience a TIA will have a stroke later on.