If a patient has a left-sided CVA, which function is most likely affected?

In the context of a left-sided cerebrovascular accident (CVA), or stroke, the function most commonly affected is speech. This is primarily due to the fact that the left hemisphere of the brain is typically responsible for language and speech production in right-handed individuals and many left-handed individuals.

When there is an infarct or damage within this area, patients often exhibit difficulties with verbal communication, a condition known as aphasia. This could manifest as expressive aphasia, where the patient struggles to form words and sentences, or receptive aphasia, where they experience difficulty in understanding spoken or written language. Thus, any impairment in speech function is a hallmark symptom following a left-sided stroke.

Understanding the functional aspects of CVAs can help in anticipating rehabilitation needs and effective communication strategies for patients affected post-stroke.