CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the primary cause of ischemic stroke?

1. A ruptured blood vessel in the brain

2. A temporary loss of blood flow to the brain

3. A blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain

4. A severe headache

The correct answer is: A blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain

Ischemic stroke is primarily caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain. This blockage can occur due to various reasons, most commonly by a blood clot that forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain or travels there from another part of the body, such as the heart. When this blockage occurs, it leads to a reduction or complete cessation of blood flow to a part of the brain, resulting in tissue damage and loss of function in that area. Understanding that ischemic strokes account for about 87% of all strokes highlights the significance of this condition, particularly in the context of risk factors such as atherosclerosis (the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries) and heart conditions that may contribute to clot formation. The other options presented do not accurately describe the mechanism of an ischemic stroke. A ruptured blood vessel leads to hemorrhagic stroke, a temporary loss of blood flow may result in a transient ischemic attack (TIA), and a severe headache can be a symptom of various conditions but is not a cause of ischemic stroke.