Which type of stroke is typically a result of a blood clot?

An ischemic stroke is primarily caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain, which is often due to a blood clot. When a clot blocks the flow of blood, it prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the brain tissue, leading to potential brain damage. Ischemic strokes account for the majority of strokes and can arise from a variety of conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, where the heart generates clots that can travel to the brain.

In contrast, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are temporary interruptions of blood flow to the brain, often seen as "mini-strokes," and while they can be related to ischemic events, they do not result in permanent brain damage. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis involves a clot in the dural venous sinuses, which can lead to increased intracranial pressure and potentially hemorrhagic complications. Therefore, the distinguishing characteristic of ischemic stroke being the result of a blood clot aligns with the nature of blood flow obstruction and its implications for acute brain injury.