A stroke occurs when the blood circulation in the brain is
obstructed or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and leaks. The blockage or
burst prevents blood and oxygen from reaching brain tissue. Without oxygen, the tissues
and cells in the brain are damaged and die quickly, resulting in a variety of symptoms.
When brain cells die, they do not regenerate and can cause devastating damage,
sometimes resulting in physical, cognitive, and mental disabilities. It is critical
that proper blood flow and oxygen flow to the brain be restored as soon as possible.