A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. This most commonly occurs from a blockage due to a blood clot caught in a narrowed spot in a blood vessel. It can also occur when a weak spot in the wall of a blood vessel bursts open and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue. In both cases, brain cells die. Depending on the affected location, symptoms of a stroke can vary. Serious issues with a person’s ability to feel, move, or communicate can occur.