What condition can lead to stroke if blood flow is interrupted?

A cerebral vascular attack (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, which can lead to brain damage or other serious complications. This interruption can be due to a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or a rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Understanding this is critical, as the immediate response and treatment can significantly affect the outcomes for the individual experiencing the stroke.

While other conditions listed can influence the risk of having a stroke, such as heart disease being a major risk factor due to its impact on heart health and blood circulation, the term CVA specifically describes the event of a stroke itself, making it directly related to the interruption of blood flow to the brain.