Vascular Disorders

Cerebrovascular accident (CVA)

Stroke caused by disruption of blood supply to the brain.

Cerebral infarction

Another name for CVA.

Thrombotic stroke

Stroke caused by a blood clot forming in an artery supplying the brain.

Atherosclerosis

Most common cause of thrombotic stroke.

Transient ischemic attacks (TIA)

Temporary neurologic episodes occurring before a full stroke.

Embolic stroke

Stroke caused by a dislodged clot traveling to a brain artery.

Embolic stroke

Type of stroke that usually occurs suddenly.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Stroke caused by rupture and bleeding of a blood vessel.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Causes include aging, hypertension, and ruptured aneurysm.

Hemorrhagic stroke

This type of stroke can be fatal.

Stroke risk factors

Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and obesity.

Antiplatelet drugs

Drugs used to prevent platelets from clumping together in stroke treatment.

Anticoagulants

Drugs used to prevent blood clot formation in stroke treatment.

tPA (tissue plasminogen activator)

Medication used to dissolve blood clots during stroke treatment.

Carotid endarterectomy

Surgical procedure used to remove plaque from carotid arteries.

Migraine

Severe recurring unilateral vascular headache.

Aura

Visual or sensory warning signs before a migraine.

Migraine symptoms

Symptoms include flashes of light, zigzag lines, photophobia, and phonophobia.

Sumatriptan succinate (Imitrex)

Medication used to treat migraines by reducing inflammation and vessel dilation.