What is Stroke?

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and the number 1 cause of adult disability. Approximately 800,000 events occur in the United States each year. The brain needs a constant supply of blood, which carries oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. A stroke occurs when one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain becomes blocked or bursts.  As a result, part of the brain does not get the blood it needs, so it starts to die. This can cause problems with walking, speaking, seeing or feeling.