a. Define cerebrovascular accident or CVA.
b. Describe its possible causes and consequences.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Define cerebrovascular accident (CVA) by explaining that it is commonly known as a stroke, which occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients.
2. Step 2: Clarify that the interruption of blood flow in a CVA can be due to either a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke) in the brain.
3. Step 3: Describe possible causes of CVA, including blood clots, atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries), embolism (traveling clots), high blood pressure, aneurysms, or trauma to blood vessels.
4. Step 4: Explain the consequences of a CVA, which can vary depending on the brain area affected, but often include paralysis, speech difficulties, cognitive impairments, loss of sensation, or even death.
5. Step 5: Emphasize the importance of timely medical intervention to minimize brain damage and improve recovery outcomes after a CVA.

Key Concepts

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)

A cerebrovascular accident, commonly known as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This leads to the sudden loss of neurological function. CVA can be classified mainly into ischemic and hemorrhagic types.

Causes of Cerebrovascular Accident

The primary causes of CVA include ischemia due to blood clots or arterial blockage (ischemic stroke) and bleeding in the brain from ruptured blood vessels (hemorrhagic stroke). Risk factors such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and embolism contribute to these events.

Consequences of Cerebrovascular Accident

Consequences of CVA vary depending on the brain area affected and stroke severity, including paralysis, speech difficulties, cognitive impairments, and sometimes death. Early treatment is critical to minimize brain damage and improve recovery outcomes.