What is typically a warning sign of an impending CVA?

A change in level of consciousness is a critical warning sign of an impending cerebrovascular accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke. This change can manifest as confusion, disorientation, or a diminished ability to respond, and it indicates that the brain may be experiencing a disruption in blood flow. Such disruptions can affect the brain's functioning, leading to a potential stroke.

Severe headaches can occur with some strokes, particularly hemorrhagic strokes, but they are not as reliable or common a sign for all types of CVAs. Localized numbness may be experienced during a stroke, but it typically signals an acute event rather than an impending one. Chest pain, while serious and potentially indicative of a different cardiovascular issue, does not typically correlate directly with the warning signs of a stroke. Thus, the change in level of consciousness stands out as a more encompassing and crucial sign to monitor for a possible stroke.