Which symptom is listed as an associated symptom of stroke, particularly with cerebellar or hemorrhagic stroke?

• A. Vomiting and nausea
• B. Stiff neck
• C. Photophobia
• D. SBP greater than 220

Answer: (A)

Vomiting and nausea arise when the stroke affects the posterior circulation, especially the cerebellum or brainstem, or when a hemorrhage raises intracranial pressure. The cerebellum is closely connected to the vestibular system and the vomiting center in the medulla, so irritation or compression from a cerebellar stroke commonly produces nausea and vomiting. In hemorrhagic stroke, the sudden bleeding increases pressure inside the skull, which can also trigger these symptoms. In contrast, a stiff neck points more to meningitis or meningeal irritation, photophobia is typical of meningitis or migraines, and an extremely high systolic BP is a sign of severe hypertension rather than an associated stroke symptom. Hence vomiting and nausea best fit as an associated symptom for cerebellar or hemorrhagic stroke.