ModuleDraftEmergency

What is a stroke? (brain basics + types)

Plain-language definition of stroke with ischemic vs hemorrhagic types, why time matters, teach-back, and a type-sorting game.

FoundationsEveryoneIntro7 minPlain (6–8)

Educational only

Educational only — not medical advice. If stroke is suspected, get emergency help immediately.

Get help now

If you think someone is having a stroke: call your local emergency number right now. Note the last known well time. Do not drive them unless instructed by emergency services.

Key takeaways

  • Define stroke in plain language
  • Distinguish ischemic vs hemorrhagic at a high level
  • Explain why time matters
  • Recognize that TIA is urgent

What the brain needs

  • Blood brings oxygen and sugar
  • Brain cells are sensitive to interruption

Ischemic stroke (blockage)

  • Clot blocks blood flow
  • Most common type

Hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding)

  • Blood vessel breaks
  • Pressure/damage from bleeding

TIA (mini-stroke)

  • Symptoms go away
  • Still an emergency warning

Key takeaways

  • Stroke is a brain emergency
  • Call emergency services if suspected

Practice check

What you’ll practice

These questions are untimed. After you answer all of them, you’ll see your score and a clear next lesson or reference step.

0 of 2 answered

Question 1

1. A stroke happens when…

Question 2

2. A TIA can be ignored if symptoms go away.

References

  1. Tier 4
    NINDS Stroke Overview
  2. Tier 4
    NINDS Know Stroke