Cva stroke medical definition
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Medical Definition of CVA Stroke: Cerebrovascular Accident Explained
A cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to a loss of brain function. This interruption can be due to either a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke) in the brain. When brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, they begin to die, and the part of the body controlled by those cells stops working properly 124.
Types of CVA Stroke: Ischemic and Hemorrhagic
There are two main types of CVA:
- Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, often due to a blood clot. This is the most common type of stroke.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by bleeding into or around the brain when a blood vessel ruptures 45.
A related condition, called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or "mini-stroke," involves a temporary blockage where symptoms resolve within 24 hours, but it still requires emergency assessment to prevent a future stroke .
Clinical Manifestations and Symptoms of CVA Stroke
The symptoms of a CVA can include sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, facial drooping, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, loss of sensation, trouble eating, and loss of consciousness. These symptoms can lead to permanent neurological damage or even death if not treated quickly 25.
CVA Stroke in Children and Adults
While stroke is more common in adults, it can also occur in children and adolescents. In children, the causes can include sickle cell anemia, heart diseases, cancer, and genetic disorders. The symptoms in children are often nonspecific, and there are currently no standardized treatment protocols for pediatric stroke, so care is often adapted from adult guidelines .
Importance of Immediate Medical Attention
A CVA is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage and improve outcomes. Treatments for ischemic stroke, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), are most effective when given within the first few hours after symptoms begin. Quick activation of emergency medical services is essential if a stroke is suspected 24.
Terminology: CVA vs. Stroke
The term "cerebrovascular accident" (CVA) is considered outdated by many experts because it suggests that strokes are accidental and unavoidable. The preferred term is "stroke," which more accurately reflects the underlying medical processes. The use of "CVA" has declined in scientific literature and medical records, and experts recommend using "stroke" for clarity and accuracy .
Conclusion
A CVA, or stroke, is a sudden loss of brain function due to a disruption in blood supply, either from a blockage or bleeding. It is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide and requires immediate medical attention. The term "stroke" is now preferred over "CVA" in medical practice for its clarity and specificity 12345.
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