Stokes are caused when something disrupts blood flow to part of the brain or a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. This may cause parts of the brain to become damaged or die, cause long-term disability, or in some cases, death. Despite 80% of strokes being preventable, strokes are the 5th leading cause of death in the U.S. Knowing the symptoms of a stroke, as well as the many ways strokes may be prevented, may help save yourself or someone else.