An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain becomes blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage prevents essential oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain cells, leading to cell damage or death. Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. There are two main types of ischemic strokes: thrombotic strokes, which happen when a clot forms in an artery supplying blood to the brain, and embolic strokes, where a clot forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain. Prompt medical treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage.