What is a common symptom of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA)?

A common symptom of a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), or stroke, is weakness or numbness on one side of the body. This symptom occurs because a stroke disrupts blood flow to parts of the brain, leading to loss of function in the corresponding areas of the body. The brain controls various functions through different regions, and an interruption in blood flow can result in impaired movement or sensation on one side, depending on which hemisphere of the brain is affected.

Recognizing this symptom is critical, as it can be an urgent indicator of a stroke, requiring immediate medical attention to minimize damage and improve outcomes. Other symptoms of a CVA may include sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, vision problems, and severe headache, but the unilateral weakness is particularly prominent and serves as a hallmark sign of a stroke.