Final answer:
An embolic stroke is caused by a blood clot that travels to the brain and blocks an artery, resulting in a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the area.
Step-by-step explanation:
An embolic stroke is caused by a blood clot that travels to the brain and blocks an artery, leading to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the affected area of the brain. This can result in the death of brain cells and potentially permanent damage. Treatment with a clot-busting drug within a few hours of the stroke may help prevent further damage.
This obstructs the blood flow to the part of the brain that the artery supplies, leading to ischemia and tissue death. Prompt treatment with clot-busting drugs can potentially prevent permanent damage. Ischemic strokes, which are primarily caused by such blockages, represent almost 90% of all strokes.