Stroke is a brain injury that occurs when the brain's blood supply is interrupted. Without oxygen and nutrients from blood, brain tissue starts to die rapidly, resulting in a sudden loss of function.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) refers to temporary brain dysfunction due to a shortage of blood and oxygen. It is sometimes referred to as a "mini-stroke." TIA is a serious condition that serves as a warning for a stroke.

Find answers in our in-depth report on stroke:

• How can I reduce my risk?
• How is it diagnosed?
• How is it treated?
• What are the risk factors?
• What are the symptoms?
• What is a stroke?
• What should I ask my healthcare provider about stroke?

• Surgery

• Acute coronary syndrome
• Aphasia
• Brain aneurysm
• Focal dystonia
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage

• Atherosclerosis
• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• High cholesterol level
• High homocysteine level
• High triglyceride level
• Stroke