What finding is expected during a physical examination of Ischemic CVA?

During a physical examination of a patient who has experienced an ischemic cerebrovascular accident (CVA), the presence of neurological deficits is a key finding. An ischemic CVA occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, leading to damage in the affected area. This damage can result in various neurological deficits depending on the region of the brain affected. Common deficits may include weakness or paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis), difficulties with speech or understanding language (aphasia), and changes in sensory perception.

These deficits arise because the brain regions responsible for specific functions can become compromised due to the lack of oxygen and nutrients that normally come from blood flow. The assessment of these deficits is crucial as it helps in diagnosing the type of stroke and determining the appropriate treatment. Although hyperactive reflexes, coordination issues, and bilateral edema can occur in different neurological contexts, they are not defining characteristics of ischemic CVA in the same manner as the significant and often immediate neurological deficits observed in patients.