

These effects vary greatly among survivors, which we will discuss next. As a result, brain stem strokes can be difficult to diagnose.Īs with all strokes, the event is a medical emergency that requires swift treatment to save the person’s life.Īfter a stroke has been treated, the patient must work to overcome the secondary effects that occur. These are much different than the hallmark symptoms of a stroke, such as slurred speech and arm weakness. When a brain stem stroke occurs, it can cause atypical symptoms like vertigo and nausea. 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. This is a medical emergency because brain cells begin to die from a lack of oxygen-rich blood.Ī stroke can occur in any of the three major areas of the brain stem: the midbrain, pons, and medulla. With an ischemic stroke in the brain stem, it can be further classified as a lacunar stroke.

When a stroke occurs in the brain stem, the supply of blood becomes compromised by a clogged artery (ischemic stroke) or burst artery (hemorrhagic stroke). Use the links below to jump straight to any section: At the end, we’ll share a couple stories from real brain stem stroke survivors to illustrate how others have overcome the challenges of this type of stroke. This article will outline the symptoms, secondary effects, and rehabilitation process for brain stem stroke recovery. Fortunately, intensive rehabilitation often helps individuals regain function. Due to its small size, most brain stem strokes are relatively small, but the effects can be significant. The brain stem is just one half inch in diameter. But brain stem strokes are particularly different in terms of symptoms and recovery. Of course, all strokes are unique, because every stroke is different.

A stroke in the brain stem is a unique type of stroke.
