Electrocardiographic Alterations in Patients with Cerebrovascular Accidents: A Comprehensive Analysis

Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) are frequently associated with a spectrum of electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities, which may reflect autonomic dysregulation, structural cardiac involvement, or secondary ischemic injury. This article systematically reviews the prevalence, characteristics, and underlying mechanisms of ECG changes in CVA patients, with particular emphasis on their diagnostic and prognostic significance. Commonly observed alterations include QT interval prolongation, ST-segment deviations, T-wave inversions, and arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and ventricular ectopy. These findings suggest a complex interplay between neurological injury and cardiac function, mediated by neurogenic cardiac injury, catecholamine surge, and systemic inflammatory responses. Furthermore, specific ECG patterns may correlate with the severity and localization of cerebral ischemia, offering potential utility in risk stratification. Understanding these electrocardiographic phenomena is critical for optimizing patient management, distinguishing primary cardiac events from neurogenic changes, and mitigating adverse outcomes in this high-risk population.