What distinct finding might be observed during a physical exam for a Hemorrhagic CVA?

A Hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident (CVA), also known as a stroke, involves bleeding in or around the brain which leads to increased intracranial pressure and subsequent damage to brain tissue. During a physical examination, one of the key findings associated with this type of stroke is the presence of unilateral neurological deficits. This means that the physical and cognitive symptoms are typically confined to one side of the body, reflecting the location of the brain that is affected.

For instance, a patient may exhibit weakness or paralysis on one side, changes in sensation, or difficulties with speech, all of which indicate that the regions of the brain responsible for these functions are compromised. These deficits arise due to the disruption of normal blood flow and the resultant damage to neurons, which can manifest through a variety of physical signs such as facial droop, limb weakness, or difficulties in coordination.

In contrast, while shortness of breath, swollen lymph nodes, and increased heart rate can be relevant in other medical conditions, they aren’t direct indicators of a hemorrhagic stroke. These symptoms may suggest other issues such as pulmonary or cardiovascular concerns, but they do not provide the specific neurological focus that characterizes deficits found in a stroke exam. Thus, the presence of unilateral neurological deficits