Neurosurgeon names first symptoms of spinal stroke

When we hear of a stroke, we immediately think of a dangerous condition in which the blood vessels of the brain are affected. However, problems with blood flow can cause disorders not only in the head. Pain in the neck or arm, resulting in weakness, numbness or paralysis, are the first symptoms of a spinal stroke, a condition caused by blocked blood flow to the spine.

If the spinal cord does not receive enough nutrients and oxygen, its cells are damaged and even die. These effects were reported to Northwestern Medicine by neurosurgeon Babak S. Jahromi.

The doctor notes that the main factors that can disrupt blood flow in the spine include:

Blood clots;

Narrowing of arteries due to plaque accumulation caused by high levels of "bad" cholesterol in the blood or high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking;

Hemorrhages in the spinal cord due to hypertension, spinal vascular malformations, and spinal aneurysms - bulges caused by weaknesses in the walls of the arteries.

Symptoms develop very quickly, from a few minutes to a few hours, and may vary depending on which part of the spine is affected by the stroke. The condition requires immediate hospitalization and treatment, as it can otherwise lead to paralysis or even death.

Among the long-term effects of spinal stroke, experts include:

Physical weakness and paralysis

Loss of sensation in an arm or leg

Difficulty breathing

Pain

Incontinence of urine or feces

Sexual problems

Mental health problems, including depression.

Despite the severity and numerous consequences, doctors reassure: such spinal lesions are extremely rare - they account for only 1% of all strokes.

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