Cerebrovascular accident (CVA)

Definition

A cerebrovascular accident, commonly known as a stroke, occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes of this event.

Related terms

Ischemic Stroke:

Occurs when an artery to the brain is blocked, typically by a blood clot, leading to a type of CVA.

Hemorrhagic Stroke:

A type of stroke caused by bleeding either within the brain or between the brain and skull.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, it's a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke but without lasting effects