stroke

n. disruption of blood flow to the brain, which deprives the tissue of oxygen and nutrients, causing tissue damage and loss of normal function and, potentially, tissue death. A stroke may result from a hemorrhage of a blood vessel in the brain (see hemorrhagic stroke) or an embolism or thrombus blocking an artery in the brain (see embolic stroke; thrombotic stroke). This term is often used interchangeably with cerebrovascular accident. See also cerebral infarction; cerebrovascular disease; lacunar stroke; transient ischemic attack.

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Psychology term of the day

December 7th 2024

psychogenic cardiovascular disorder

any disorder of the heart or circulation that cannot be accounted for by any identifiable physical dysfunction or a general medical condition and is thought to be related to psychological factors. It can include a racing heart and chest pain or tightness.