Cerebrovascular accident

A stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted by occlusion (called an ischemic stroke -- approximately 90% of strokes), by hemorrhage (called a hemorrhagic stroke -- about 10% of strokes) or other causes. Ischemia is a reduction of blood flow most commonly due to occlusion (an obstruction). On the other hand, hemorrhagic stroke (or intracranial hemorrhage), occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into the spaces surrounding the brain cells or when a cerebral aneurysm ruptures. The mortality and long-term morbidity prognosis is generally worse for hemorrhagic strokes than for ischemic strokes. A small proportion of strokes are watershed strokes caused by hypoperfusion (usually due to hypotension) or other vascular problems including vasculitis.

Prognosis

Although stroke is a disease of the brain, it can affect the entire body. Some of the disabilities that can result from stroke include paralysis, cognitive deficits, speech problems, emotional difficulties, pressure sores, pneumonia, continence problems, daily living problems, and pain. If the stroke is severe enough, coma or death can result. Depression is common but may respond to antidepressants.

Related Topics:
Paralysis - Pressure sore - Pneumonia - Continence problems - Pain - Coma - Death - Depression - Antidepressant

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