What an ischaemic stroke is

Ischaemic stroke

An ischaemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It happens when a blood vessel carrying blood to the brain becomes blocked, often by a clot.

Without blood, that part of the brain loses oxygen and its cells are damaged. The result can be weakness, slurred speech or trouble seeing on one side.

This matters because the cause is treatable in hospital when caught early. Doctors may use medicine to break down the clot, so getting to hospital fast is vital.

Once the person is home, physiotherapy takes over the recovery work. At home our physiotherapist helps rebuild movement, balance and the use of the affected side through daily practice.

Physiotherapy does not clear the blockage or repair the brain. It helps the person regain as much safe, independent movement as their recovery allows.