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CNI Stroke Program
Glossary
Aneurysm - SAH usually results from an aneurysm, a weak spot in an artery wall, that suddenly bursts, causing blood to spill into fluid filled spaces surrounding the brain. Physicians may identify an aneurysm through a CTA, which shows a “bubble” on the vessel wall.
Aphasia - A total or partial loss of the ability to use words and language.
Apraxia - Inability to plan and carry out steps of a complex task in the right order.
Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) - A tangle of thin-walled blood vessels that bleed more easily than normal vessels.
Atherosclerosis - The buildup of fatty deposits on the walls of arteries, which results in narrowing of the vessels. Fatty deposits can be the result of cholesterol deposits.
Blood Clotting Disorders - Disorders such as hemophilia and sickle cell anemia can contribute to an increased risk for ICH. Be sure to consult with your physician to determine how best to control your disorder while minimizing your stroke risk.
Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA) - This condition relates to a particular kind of protein deposit found in the wall of vessels that supply blood to the brain. In modest amounts, these deposits are usually harmless and in fact are a common part of aging process. However, some individuals can develop severe CAA, in which case the protein deposits actually cause the blood vessel walls to crack, leaking blood into the brain and causing a hemorrhagic stroke.
Cognitive Ability - This is the way we think or the thought process that goes into daily functioning.
Diplopia - A condition in which patients “see double.”
Dysarthria - A condition in which the muscles of the mouth, face, neck and throat are weakened or paralyzed. This weakness may cause a drooping of one side of the face or the lips. This makes it difficult to say words correctly, often causing speech to be slurred and difficult to understand.
Dysphagia - Difficulty, discomfort or an inability to swallow.
Embolic Stroke/Embolus - Occurs when a clot originates somewhere other than in the brain and is carried by the blood to the brain where the arteries branch off into smaller vessels. The clot reaches a point where it can go no further and plugs the vessel, cutting off the blood supply. This mobile clot is called an embolus.
Emotional Lability - Spontaneous and uncontrolled emotional reactions; for example, crying or laughing easily for no apparent reason.
Hemiparesis - Weakness on one side of the body.
Hemiplegia - Paralysis or inability to move one side of the body.
Hemorrhagic Stroke - Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain breaks, spilling blood into the brain tissue or into the area surrounding the brain.
High Blood Pressure - The most common cause of ICH, high blood pressure is a critical – and controllable – stroke risk factor. Consult with your doctor and have your blood pressure checked regularly.
Hydrocephalus - A condition caused by an abnormal build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. This can create dilatation of the ventricles of the brain and cause increased pressure or swelling of the brain.
Ischemic Stroke (Thrombotic Stroke) - Occurs when the blood flow in an artery of the brain is blocked due to a clot.
Medication to prevent blood clotting – It is important to check with your doctor about the use and potential risks of these medications. While they can help prevent ischemic strokes, they can also increase your risk for ICH if your blood becomes too thin.
Paresthesia - Pain, numbness or odd sensations of tingling or prickling.
Stroke - A stroke occurs when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When this happens, the part of the brain not getting blood flow starts to die.
TIA (Transcient Ischemic Attack) or “Mini Stroke” - A brief episode of stroke-like symptoms that results from a temporary blockage of a blood vessel in the brain. The symptoms are the same as stroke. TIAs can last anywhere from a minute up to a day. While TIAs do not cause any permanent brain damage, they often act as a warning sign for stroke. People who have experienced a TIA are 10 times more likely to have a stroke. If you experience a TIA, it is important that you immediately see a doctor to help manage your risk of stroke.
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