Types of stroke
Find out more about the different types of stroke and why they happen.
What is stroke?
Find out about the different types of stroke, the effects of stroke and how to reduce your risk of stroke within this section.
Ischaemic stroke
An ischaemic stroke happens when a blood clot, or other blockage, cuts off the blood supply to your brain. This is the most common type of stroke.
Locked-in syndrome after brain stem stroke
A stroke in the brain stem can cause the very rare condition of locked-in syndrome, where the person is conscious but unable to move apart from their eyes.
Blood-thinning medication and stroke
Resource type: Information leaflet
Publication type: Stroke information
You might be prescribed blood-thinning medication to reduce your risk of a TIA or stroke. This guide explains the two types of blood-thinning medication available, antiplatelets and anticoagulants, and how they are used after a stroke or for someone with atrial fibrillation.