A brain stem stroke can affect vital body functions which makes it a dangerous condition. The brain stem is responsible for regulating breathing, blood pressure and heart rate as well as swallowing, speech, eye movements and hearing.
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What are the indications?
The signs of a stroke are based on the site in the brain that is affected. If the brain stem is affected, it can disrupt with vital functions such as the heartbeat and breathing. Other functions such as swallowing, and eye movements are also altered. In addition, this stroke can disrupt with hearing and speech which leads to vertigo.
All signals from the brain travel via the brain stem. The nerve cells that originate from different regions of the brain transport these signals via the brain stem to the spinal cord.
If the blood flow in the brain stem is disrupted, these brain signals are affected. As a result, various parts of the body these signals control are affected.
Who are at risk?
Any individual can end up with a stroke, but the risk increases with age. A family history of stroke increases the risk as well as those over 65 years old.
Certain conditions that increases the risk include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy
- Heart disease
- Some blood ailments
- Cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
Management of a brain stem stroke
For an ischemic stroke, the initial line of treatment is to dissolve or get rid of the blood clot. If detected early, a clot-busting drug is given. If possible, a catheter is utilized to eliminate the clot. In some instances, angioplasty along with stenting is used to broaden an artery and ensure that it is patent.
If it is a hemorrhagic stroke, the flow of blood should be controlled. A coil or clip is oftentimes placed on the aneurysm to stop the bleeding. Drugs that reduces the risk for clotting is also necessary.