Glossary terms - C

CADASIL

(Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy); the most common form of hereditary stroke disorder. A progressive illness, which can manifest as migraine, TIA, stroke and mood disorders. May be slowed down through the use of anticoagulant drugs.

Capillaries

Tiny blood vessels.

Cardio-embolic stroke

Stroke due to a clot that has formed in the heart and travelled to the brain.

Cardiovascular

Relating to the heart and blood vessels.

Carotid arteries

There are two carotid arteries on each side of the neck which carry blood from the heart to the head, notably the face and front of the brain. Disease or blockage of a carotid artery (carotid stenosis) is a common cause of stroke.

Carotid endarterectomy

The operation that is performed to clear the inside of the carotid artery of atheroma.

Catheterisation

The insertion of a tube inside the body. Most commonly this is into the bladder to drain the urine directly into a bag.

Centrally-acting drugs

Medicines that act on the brain or central nervous system.

Central post-stroke pain (CPSP)

Also called thalamic pain or neuropathic pain syndrome; where all stimuli cause a pain reaction, often described as shooting or burning sensations. May be experienced after stroke in the affected side.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain that controls fine (delicate) movement and may also play a part in higher mental functions.

Cerebral cortex

The thin outer layer of the cerebrum, a convoluted "crust" lying over and around most of the structures of the brain, in which most of its higher functions take place.

Cerebral haemorrhage

Bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain.

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain, made up of the left and right hemispheres (sides).

Cholesterol

A fatty substance made in the liver and also present in some foods, which is vital to the body's normal functioning, but if present in excess, can be deposited in the wall of the arteries to produce atheroma.

Chronic pain

Pain which persists over a long period of time and is resistant to most medical treatments. (see also CPSP).

Circulatory problems

Impairment or malfunction of a part of the circulatory system, ie. the heart, lungs and blood vessels.

CIT (Constraint-induced Movement Therapy)

An intensive movement rehabilitation programme, developed by Professor Edward Taub of the University of Alabama, and still being evaluated for NHS use in the UK (2007). A constraint is applied to the unaffected arm while rehabilitation is applied on the affected side.

Clinical psychologist

Health professional who assesses and treats psychological dysfunction, disorder and distress, and may specialise in difficulties arising from stroke or neurological impairment.

Clopidogrel

Anti-platelet drug used to stop clots from forming, also known as plavix.

Cognition

The function of processing information and applying knowledge.

Cognitive functions

Processes requiring thought and intelligence, such as attention, perception, learning, memory, comprehension, judgement and decision making.

Coma

A state of profound unconsciousness, in which normal responses and actions are impossible, and from which a person cannot be roused.

Compensation

Adapting to an impairment in order to perform a task successfully.

Computed Tomography (CT)

The X-ray technique most commonly used to examine the brain. Sometimes referred to as CAT - computed or computerised axial tomography.

Communication Aid Centres

Part of the NHS Speech and Language Therapy Service, specialising in alternative communication techniques and aids.

Community physiotherapist

Provides a local or domiciliary service (where patients are housebound) for adults with physical health difficulties or rehabilitation needs. Usually works as part of a team providing assessment and treatment for difficulties with mobility, pain and other problems.

Complementary (therapy)

Various treatments, often based on traditional medicine, which are practised in conjunction with 'orthodox' or 'mainstream' medical treatment to aid recovery from illness. Opinions vary on their effectiveness. May affect other treatments and should be used with caution and only after taking medical advice.

Concentration

The ability to direct and focus one's thinking in whatever direction one would intend.

Confabulation

Unconscious fabrication of experiences and events to cover gaps in memory. May be caused by damage to the anterior communicating artery and frontal area of the brain.

Continence

Automatic control of bladder and bowel function. Loss of one or both (incontinence) may happen for a time after stroke.

Contractures

Where a joint becomes fixed in one position by muscles that have become stiff from not being moved.

Contralateral

On the opposite side (of the body).

Correct positioning

After stroke where one side of the person is weak or paralysed, care should be taken with their movement and positioning, to ensure that they are safe and properly supported. A physiotherapist should be able to advise.

CT (CAT) scan

Imaging technique used to create pictures of sections of the brain using X-rays and computer processing.

CVA

The abbreviation for 'cerebro-vascular accident' meaning stroke. The term is widely used but may cause confusion.