Description
Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or "stroke" is an abnormal
condition of the blood vessels in the brain. It is characterised by either blocking
(occlusion) of the blood vessels, or haemorrhage (rupture) of them, so the resulting
disruption in blood flow or bleeding, deprives brain tissue of the blood and oxygen it
requires (ischaemia). The effects of CVA depend on the location and extent of
this ischaemia. Paralysis, weakness, speech defect or death may occur. Symptoms may lessen
after the first few days, as brain swelling subsides. 48,000 Australians experience CVA's
each year (with about 5% of these under 45 years of age). |
Information
& Support
National Stroke Foundation Site
provides information about stroke, activities of the Foundation, a speakers' bureau,
treatment, education and awareness resources. |