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Stroke Overview Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted by a blocked or burst artery. This sudden decrease in blood flow to a specific area of the brain deprives brain cells of oxygen and other nutrients. Ischemia develops and brain cells within the core die. Brain cells surrounding the core, a region called the penumbra, do not suffer immediate, irreversible effects. They are temporarily neurologically and electrically impaired. Restoration of cerebral blood flow, even to suboptimal levels, provides an opportunity for these cells to recover and regain functionality. Additional information about stroke can be obtained from any number of sources. We have identified several excellent sources of information, ranging from general to highly technical, in the Web Links area of this website's Resources section. |
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