Like all organs, the brain needs the oxygen provided by blood to function properly. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is restricted or stopped, killing brain cells. This can lead to brain injury, disability and sometimes death.

There are three types of stroke:

• An ischaemic stroke is where a blood clot cuts off the blood supply to the brain and accounts for 85 per cent of cases
• A haemorrhagic stroke is caused by a bleeding in or around the brain
• A transient ischaemic attack (TIA), where the blood supply to the brain is temporarily interrupted, is known as a mini stroke and can last for a few minutes or persist up to 24 hours.

Stroke is a medical emergency and the main symptoms of both stroke and TIA can be identified using the FAST test:

Face: Can the person smile? Has their face fallen on one side?

Arms: Can the person raise both arms and keep them there?

Speech problems: Can the person speak clearly and understand what you say? Is their speech slurred?

Time: If you see any of these three signs, it’s time to call 999.

Strokes are usually treated with medication, such as those to prevent and dissolve blood clots, reduce blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. In some cases, procedures to remove blood clots or surgery to treat brain swelling may be needed.

Extend your learning

Further your knowledge of the cardiovascular system:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Heart failure
• Blood pressure screening and management.

Make sure to click NEXT to answer the multiple choice questions and log your learning first.