Strokes are most commonly caused by a blood clot in a blood vessel supplying part of the brain, which blocks the flow of blood to that area of the brain.

Another cause of stroke is when a blood vessel ruptures, resulting in an area of the brain being ‘squashed’ by the pressure of the blood.

Either cause of the stroke results in an area of the brain dying which is why it is so important to receive treatment as quickly as possible to prevent as little damage to the brain as possible.

It is therefore important for people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a stroke so that correct treatment can be given quickly.