When blood flow to the brain stops, a condition known as cerebral ischemia occurs. This can lead to a stroke, which is a medical emergency. There are two main types of strokes: thrombotic and embolic. A thrombotic stroke occurs when a blood clot, known as a thrombus, blocks an artery to the brain and stops blood flow. On the other hand, an embolic stroke happens when a clot from elsewhere in the body travels to the brain and blocks an artery. If blood flow is not restored quickly, the brain cells begin to die due to lack of oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to permanent brain damage and a range of neurological deficits. read more >>

There are two types of ischemic stroke: thrombotic and embolic. A thrombotic stroke occurs when a blood clot, called a thrombus, blocks an artery to the brain and stops blood flow. ... In most cases, the carotid or vertebral arteries do not become completely blocked and a small stream of blood trickles to the brain.read more >>