What is a cerebrovascular accident (CVA)?

A cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly referred to as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, which can happen due to either a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a rupture (hemorrhagic stroke) of a blood vessel. This interruption leads to a lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching brain tissue, which can result in the death of brain cells and potentially cause lasting neurological damage. The definition emphasizes the urgency of the situation, as a CVA is indeed a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to minimize brain damage and improve outcomes.

The other answers relate to different conditions or mechanisms that do not accurately represent a cerebrovascular accident. For instance, while there are forms of brain infections and degenerative conditions, these do not fall under the definition of a CVA, which specifically pertains to the vascular events affecting blood supply to the brain. Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially in emergency medical settings, as recognizing the symptoms and promptly addressing a CVA can significantly impact recovery and rehabilitation.