What Is an Ischemic Stroke?

An ischemic stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked. This keeps oxygen from reaching brain cells, which causes damage. It’s the most common type of stroke.

When people say “stroke,” they often mean this kind. The correct ischemic stroke pronunciation is iss-kee-mik.

What Causes an Ischemic Stroke?

The most common ischemic stroke causes include:

  • Blood clots in arteries
  • Plaque buildup in the arteries, brain or neck
  • Heart problems that send clots to the brain
  • High blood pressure and low heart rate swings
  • Poor blood pressure management

These things lead to arterial damage, cutting off flow to the brain.

Ischemic Stroke Symptoms

  • Sudden numbness (usually on one side)

  • Trouble speaking

  • Confusion
  • Trouble seeing

  • Dizziness or loss of balance

  • Sudden headache

  • Weakness in the face, arm, or leg

If you notice these signs, call emergency services right away.

Ischemic Stroke

How It’s Diagnosed

Doctors run tests to confirm a stroke and what type it is.

They may use:

  • Brain scan (CT or MRI)

  • Blood tests

  • Heart tests
  • Ischemic stroke ICD-10 code for medical records

  • Imaging to check the arteries of the heart and neck

This is where BaleDoneen can help.

BaleDoneen focus on root causes like blocked arteries and inflammation. Our team uses testing, plans, and care to lower stroke risk and help you protect your vascular health.

Treatment Options

Ischemic stroke treatment may include:

  • Clot-busting drugs (if given early)

  • Blood thinners

  • Surgery to remove a clot

  • Medicine to manage cholesterol or blood pressure

  • Rehab for speech or movement

If caught early, many people recover well.

Stroke Recovery and Life After

Can a person recover from an ischemic stroke?

Yes, many people improve over time. Some have full recovery. Others may need therapy or long-term help.

Your care team may also focus on cardiovascular health and inflammation and cardiovascular risk, since stroke and heart issues often go hand in hand.

Ischemic stroke life expectancy depends on how fast care starts, your age, and overall health.

Prevention Matters

The best plan is to lower risk before a stroke happens.

Steps that support cardiovascular disease prevention:

  • Quit smoking
  • Move 30 minutes daily

  • Lower salt and sugar

  • Get enough sleep

  • Manage stress

  • Control blood pressure

Food plays a big role too. Try a heart-healthy diet filled with fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid foods that trigger blood pressure spikes.

Supplements like omega-3, CoQ10 for cardiovascular health, and magnesium and blood pressure support may help—ask your doctor first.

Other tips include:

  • Keep your weight in check
  • Watch sugar and cholesterol
  • Use natural remedies for heart health with care
  • Make lifestyle changes for heart disease even if you feel fine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of ischemic stroke?

What is the difference between ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke?

What is the main cause of ischemic stroke?

Can a person recover from an ischemic stroke?

How to treat ischaemic stroke?

What is the life expectancy of someone with an ischemic stroke?