Cerebrovascular accident

What is Cerebrovascular Accident?

→ A Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, is a condition in which the blood supply to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted or reduced. This leads to a lack of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to become damaged or die. It can result in loss of movement, sensation, speech, or other neurological functions, depending on the area of the brain affected. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

Causes

→ Blockage of blood vessel (ischemic stroke)

→ Rupture of blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke)

→ High blood pressure

→ Diabetes

→ Heart diseases

→ Smoking

→ High cholesterol

→ Obesity and sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms

→ Sudden weakness or paralysis (usually one side of body)

→ Difficulty in speaking or understanding speech

→ Facial drooping

→ Loss of balance and coordination

→ Sudden vision problems

→ Severe headache (in some cases)

→ Difficulty in walking

Diagnosis

→ Clinical examination by doctor

→ CT scan / MRI of brain

→ Blood tests

→ ECG

→ Neurological assessment

Treatment Management

→ Immediate emergency care

→ Clot-dissolving drugs (in ischemic stroke)

→ Surgery (in hemorrhagic stroke if needed)

→ Physiotherapy

→ Speech therapy

→ Occupational therapy

→ Medications (blood pressure, cholesterol control)

→ Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, quitting smoking)