Acute stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, injuring brain cells and tissues. Recognising stroke symptoms is crucial as people who get rapid treatment have a better chance of a more complete recovery, even if the initial stroke is relatively severe.
Acute Stroke
THE BLOOD, THE BRAIN AND ACUTE STROKE
Brain tissue is very sensitive; it needs a constant supply of blood to deliver oxygen to the thousands of nerve cells that power thought and function. If the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, even briefly, large numbers of brain cells can die within minutes. This can cause serious damage, which can be permanent as nerve cells in the brain cannot regenerate. Prompt treatment to limit the damage can mean a faster and more complete recovery. Acute stroke damages the brain and is a physical injury; for this reason GPs and specialists often call a stroke a brain attack, as it is similar to a heart attack but occurs in the brain.
