What condition is characterized by a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain?

The condition characterized by a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain is a stroke. A stroke occurs when there is an interruption of blood supply to a part of the brain, resulting in the deprivation of necessary oxygen and nutrients. This can be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or by bleeding in or around the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

The rapid loss of brain function that accompanies a stroke can lead to significant physical and cognitive impairments, depending on the area of the brain affected and the duration of the blood flow disruption. Timely medical intervention is crucial to minimize long-term damage and improve recovery outcomes. Other conditions, while they may affect brain function, do not directly result from a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain in the same way that a stroke does.