CVA (Part 1) Flashcards
What is a Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA)?
A sudden loss of neurological function caused by interruption of the blood flow to the brain.
What is the rank of CVA as a cause of death and disability in the US?
5th leading cause of death and leading cause of long-term disability among adults.
How often does a stroke occur in the US?
Every 40 seconds; 1 death every 4 minutes.
Which populations have higher risks of stroke?
African-Americans, Mexican Americans, American Indians, and Alaskan natives.
Define ischemic stroke.
Stroke caused by blockage of blood flow, accounting for 87% of all strokes.
Define hemorrhagic stroke.
Stroke caused by rupture of blood vessels, leading to bleeding in or around the brain, accounting for 13% of all strokes.
What are the types of ischemic strokes?
- thrombus
- embolus
- low systemic perfusion/hypoperfusion
Describe thrombotic strokes.
Caused by platelet adhesion and aggregation on plaques, leading to local occlusion of blood vessels.
Describe embolic strokes.
Caused by clots that dislodge and travel to cerebral blood vessels, blocking blood flow.
Describe hemorrhagic strokes.
Hemorrhagic Strokes:
- Involves bleeding into brain tissue after rupture of a blood vessel wall, causing edema and compression of brain tissue.
What are the common sites for atherosclerotic plaque formation?
- origin of carotid arteries
- vertebral arteries
- junction of basilar and vertebral arteries
What are the major modifiable risk factors for CVA?
- hypertension
- diabetes
- cardiac arrhythmias
- high cholesterol
- CKD
- obesity
- tobacco use
- physical inactivity
- poor nutrition
What are the non-modifiable risk factors for CVA?
Family history, age, gender, and race/ethnicity.
How does smoking affect stroke risk?
Current smokers have 2-4 times increased risk; smoking is a significant modifiable risk factor.
How does physical activity affect stroke risk?
Physical inactivity is associated with higher risk; aerobic fitness and muscle strength lower stroke risk.
How does nutrition affect stroke risk?
High intake of sugar-sweetened and diet soda increases risk; a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy lowers risk.