NR 283 Week 6 Assignment; RUA; Pathophysiological Processes; Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) Analysis

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) Analysis Angel Zeigbo & Cassandra Bradford Chamberlain University College of Nursing NR283: Pathophysiology Dr. Angelia Elgin February 16, 2025 Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) Analysis A cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. It happens when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage and loss of function. Strokes are mainly classified as ischemic, caused by a blockage, or hemorrhagic, caused by bleeding in the brain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2023), strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting nearly 795,000 people annually. The increasing global prevalence of strokes, especially in lower-income regions, highlights the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts (Feigin et al., 2021). This paper will dive into the causes and risk factors of CVA, breaking down both the controllable and uncontrollable elements that contribute to its development. It will also explore the physiological changes that occur during a stroke, how these changes present as symptoms, and the potential complications. Diagnostic methods will be discussed to highlight how healthcare professionals identify and confirm stroke cases. Additionally, real-life perspectives will be included through patient interviews, offering insight into the impact of strokes on individuals and their families. Lastly, the paper will emphasize the importance of prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care for improving patient outcomes. Etiology and Risk Factors The causes of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can be broadly categorized into ischemic and hemorrhagic origins. Ischemic strokes occur due to a blockage in the blood vessels supplying the brain, often caused by atherosclerosis or an embolism. Hemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, result from the rupture of a weakened blood vessel, that can be caused by long-term hypertension or trauma. Both types ultimately lead to reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery to brain tissue, causing neuronal injury and functional impairments. Risk factors for stroke are divided into modifiable and non-modifiable categories. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, gender, and genetics. The likelihood of experiencing a stroke increases significantly with age, particularly in individuals over 60. While men statistically experience strokes at a higher rate, women tend to suffer more severe consequences due to older age at onset and increased comorbidities (Appelros et al., 2020). Genetic predisposition also plays a role, individuals with a family history of stroke have a higher probability of experiencing one themselves. Modifiable risk factors, however, present opportunities for prevention and intervention. Hypertension is the most significant contributor to both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, making effective blood pressure management essential for reducing stroke risk (Wang et al., 2021). Other major risk factors include diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, all of these can contribute to vascular damage and increased clotting potential. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and chronic stress further exacerbate the likelihood of stroke occurrence. Environmental factors, such as socioeconomic status and access to health care, also influence stroke risk. Individuals in lower-income