What vital sign change is often observed in stroke patients?

Elevated blood pressure is often observed in stroke patients due to the stress that a stroke places on the body and the subsequent activation of the sympathetic nervous system. This reaction can cause a significant increase in blood pressure as the body attempts to compensate for the loss of normal blood flow to the brain. When a stroke occurs, either from an ischemic event (blockage) or a hemorrhagic event (bleeding), the body may perceive this as a crisis, leading to a fight-or-flight response which can elevate blood pressure to ensure adequate blood flow to vital organs, including the brain.

Monitoring vital signs in stroke patients is crucial as elevated blood pressure can have implications for both patient management and treatment decisions. It can influence whether thrombolytic therapy is indicated or contraindicated in cases of ischemic stroke and informs the overall approach to care.