A cerebrovascular accident, also known as a stroke, happens when blood no longer flows to a certain area of the brain. These areas of the brain begin to lose their capability to control other body functions. This occurs after the death of many brain cells due to the cells not receiving enough oxygen. Ischemic Stroke is caused by a clot or blocked blood vessel.”Hemorrhagic Stroke occurs when a blood vessel in your brain leaks or ruptures.

“Transient Ischemic Stroke (TIA) is a temporary disruption of blood flow that will not cause permanent damage. In order to diagnose Mr. Johnson’s cerebrovascular accident, the patient was given a full physical exam. They also looked for a bruit. A bruit indicates abnormal blood flow. Finally, the doctors checked to see if his blood pressure is elevated. There are different treatments depending on the type of stroke.

The treatment for a hemorrhagic stroke is focused on controlling the bleeding. When bleeding occurs, it puts pressure on the brain, and a drug is often given to relieve this pressure. However, surgery may be needed depending on severity. The treatment for an ischemic stroke is to reinstate blood flow to the brain. To do this, the patient may be given a blood thinner or a drug to dissolve the clot. If the patient is at risk for a second stroke, they my be given aspirin in an attempt to prevent it. Mr. Johnson was given a blood thinner and aspirin.

However, if the cerebrovascular accident was more severe, the medicine may have been injected directly into the brain, or a procedure will be done to remove the blockage. After a stroke 2/3 survivors will develop a disability.