26A. Symptoms of insufficient blood circulation in vertebrobasilar territory (+ the posterior circulation)

Page created on June 3, 2021. Last updated on December 18, 2024 at 16:57

Introduction

For introduction to stroke symptoms, see topic 16A.

The posterior circulation supplies the brain stem and thalamus (+ cerebellum and occipital cortex), and as such may produce a larger variety of symptoms than anterior circulation strokes.

Symptoms of insufficient blood supply of the vertebrobasilar artery territory

  • Vertigo
  • Diplopia
  • Dysarthria
  • Uni/bilateral sensory loss
  • Uni/bilateral paresis/plaegia
  • Bilateral visual changes/hemianopia
  • Altered consciousness
  • Dysphagia
  • Ataxia
  • Alternating brainstem syndrome