When an artery to the brain is blocked, which of the following occurs?

Prepare for the ARRT Vascular Interventional Exam with interactive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question is accompanied by hints and explanations. Ensure your readiness for success!

When an artery to the brain is blocked, the correct outcome is an ischemic stroke. This condition occurs when there is insufficient blood flow to a part of the brain due to a blockage, which can be caused by a blood clot or a buildup of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) in the arteries. The lack of blood flow leads to a reduction in oxygen supply to brain tissue, resulting in cell death and potentially lasting neurological damage.

In an ischemic stroke, the brain cells begin to die within minutes due to oxygen deprivation, leading to immediate symptoms like weakness, difficulty speaking, or other neurological deficits based on the affected area. This situation requires urgent medical intervention to restore blood flow and minimize brain damage.

Other conditions listed are distinct and do not accurately describe the process resulting from a blocked artery to the brain. For instance, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to the rupture of a blood vessel, leading to bleeding in or around the brain rather than blockage. Seizures can occur due to a variety of reasons, including brain injury or neurological disorders, and are not directly caused by a blockage. An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel that can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke and is not the result of an artery being blocked

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