Final answer:
A stroke, also known as a cerebral vascular accident (CVA), manifests as a sudden loss of brain function due to a blocked or ruptured blood vessel. Ischemic strokes are caused by clots and are the most common type, while hemorrhagic strokes are due to bleeding. TIAs are similar to ischemic strokes but are temporary, with symptoms resolving within 24 hours.
Step-by-step explanation:
A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency characterized by the sudden loss of brain function due to a disruption in the brain's blood supply. An ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked, often by a clot. This lack of blood flow leads to brain cell death. Symptoms include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, confusion, difficulty speaking, vision problems, and dizziness.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a mini-stroke, presents similar symptoms to a stroke but is temporary, as the blood flow is restored before permanent damage occurs. The symptoms of a TIA resolve within 24 hours. Though the effects are temporary, TIAs should be taken very seriously as they are a warning sign for potential future strokes.