![]() ![]() Like other types of strokes, brain stem stroke can lead to hemiparesis or hemiplegia. This affects around 47% of survivors, but long-term outcomes are generally positive. Difficulty swallowing (a condition called dysphagia), is common after a brain stem stroke. A stroke in this area can affect the ability to breathe if automatic respiratory functions are disrupted. Breathing is controlled by the medulla, which is part of the brain stem. An individual affected by locked-in syndrome is generally conscious and able to think and reason, but is unable to move or speak due to injury to the brain stem. This rare condition occurs when an individual is completely paralyzed but some of the muscles that control eye movement are spared. The brain stem controls the state of consciousness, so a stroke in this area of the brain can result in a coma. To help you better understand this, let’s discuss some of the possible secondary effects: While strokes that affect other areas of the brain are often accompanied by motor or sensory impairments, the effects of a stroke in the brain stem may present somewhat differently. For this reason, a brain stem stroke can lead to a wide range of secondary effects that impact a survivor’s daily life and independence. Therefore, the secondary effects of a brain stem stroke can impact these functions and others. The brain stem plays a major role in vital body functions such as breathing, consciousness, and heart rate. Potential Secondary Effects of Brain Stem Stroke ![]() After a stroke has been treated, the survivor must work to overcome the secondary effects that occur, which we will discuss next. ![]() Timely medical treatment is crucial to restore the body’s vital function and minimize tissue damage. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the different warning signs of stroke to protect yourself or a loved one. As a result of these unique symptoms, a brain stem stroke can be difficult to diagnose.Īs with all strokes, this event is a medical emergency that requires swift treatment to save the person’s life. When a brain stem stroke occurs, it can cause atypical symptoms like vertigo, nausea, and headache. These can be present with or without the hallmark symptoms of a stroke, such as slurred speech or weakness of one side of the body. For this reason, it is important to manage risk factors to reduce the risk of a first or even a second stroke. Additionally, smoking can increase the risk of stroke by 2-4 times. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Of the three sections of the brain stem, the pons is most affected and is the site of tissue damage in 60% of brain stem stroke cases. Furthermore, some strokes that injure the brain stem also affect the cerebellum (located behind the top part of the brain stem) or other surrounding areas. Ischemic strokes in the brain stem are more common than hemorrhagic and can sometimes be further classified as a lacunar stroke.Ī stroke can occur in any of the three major areas of the brain stem: the midbrain, pons, and medulla. Both types of stroke contribute to cell death and tissue damage in the brain stem due to the disruption of blood flow or the pressure caused by a hemorrhage. The second, called hemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a vessel bursts. The first, called ischemic stroke, takes place when the supply of blood becomes compromised by a clogged vessel. Two main types of stroke can affect the brain stem. To help you navigate this article, use the links below to jump straight to any section: Additionally, we will share stories from real brain stem stroke survivors to illustrate how others have overcome the challenges of this type of stroke. Then we will discuss the rehabilitation process and the different components of recovery. In this article, we will outline the causes and secondary effects of brain stem stroke. Fortunately, there is hope for survivors as intensive rehabilitation can help individuals regain function and independence. However, the effects can be significant and, oftentimes, life-threatening. Due to its small size, many brain stem strokes are relatively small. The brain stem is located at the base of the brain and connects the main cerebrum to the cerebellum and spinal cord. This is because of the brain stem’s role in many of the body’s vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure regulation. While all strokes are unique, brain stem strokes are particularly different in terms of symptoms and recovery. Brain stem stroke is a unique type of stroke that is uncommon, accounting for 10-15% of cases. ![]()
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