ModuleEmergency
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.
What you'll learn
- 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
Check your understanding
A few untimed questions. Pick an answer to see instant feedback, then continue to the next lesson.
0 of 2 answered
References
- Tier 4NINDS Stroke Overview
- Tier 4NINDS Know Stroke