Which of the following is a potential outcome of a stroke?

A common outcome of a stroke is weakness in one side of the body, also referred to as hemiparesis. This occurs due to the disruption of blood flow to the brain, which can damage specific areas responsible for motor control and sensory perception. The brain controls movement on the opposite side of the body, so a stroke affecting the right side of the brain often results in weakness on the left side of the body, and vice versa.

This outcome is significant as it can impact a person's mobility and daily functioning, requiring rehabilitation and supportive measures for recovery. Other potential outcomes like enhanced motor skills or increased cognitive ability are less likely immediately following a stroke, as the condition typically results in deficits rather than improvements in these areas. Prolonged headaches can occur but are not a hallmark of stroke; they are more commonly associated with other conditions like migraines or tension-type headaches. Thus, weakness on one side of the body accurately reflects a well-known and serious effect of stroke.