Ischemic Stroke

Key facts

• An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot blocks an artery carrying blood to the brain. Without oxygen, brain cells begin dying within minutes.
• It accounts for around 85% of all strokes and is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide.
• The FAST signs, Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services, mean urgent action, not waiting to see if symptoms pass.
• After a stroke, antiplatelet medicines such as clopidogrel and control of blood pressure and cholesterol reduce the risk of a second one.

Recognising the warning signs

FAST captures the most common symptoms: Face drooping on one side, Arm weakness, Speech that's slurred or confused, and Time to call emergency services immediately. Other warning signs include a sudden severe headache, loss of vision in one eye, or new difficulty walking. Any of these demand emergency care right away; every minute without treatment costs brain tissue.

Reducing the risk of another stroke

Once the emergency has passed, preventing a second stroke becomes the priority. Antiplatelet medicines, such as clopidogrel, reduce the tendency of blood to clot inside arteries. Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol matters just as much; the wider range of heart and blood pressure treatments covers these risk factors. Lifestyle changes, stopping smoking, cutting salt intake, and maintaining a healthy weight, work alongside medicines to lower the chance of recurrence.

When to see a doctor

Sudden facial drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech is a medical emergency: call for emergency help immediately rather than waiting to see if it passes. After a stroke, ongoing follow-up with a doctor is essential to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and antiplatelet treatment long-term, and to catch any new symptoms that might signal a further event early.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.