$Unique_ID{BRK01503}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases, Circulatory System}
$Title{What is Wallenberg Syndrome?}
$Subject{arteries Wallenberg's}
$Volume{N-4, G-4}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is Wallenberg Syndrome?


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QUESTION:  My husband had what they called a different kind of stroke called
Wallenberg Syndrome.  I have not been able to find the cause or problem
connected with it.  I would like to know what you can tell me about this
condition?

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ANSWER:  Blood arrives from the heart to nourish the brain, through a number
of arteries, the internal carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries among
them.  These vessels form an unusual series of connections at the base of the
brain called the Circle of Willis, which assures blood flow to many areas of
the brain.  However when one of these arteries or their smaller branches
become clogged, a portion of the brain will be without needed nourishment or
oxygen, and no longer be able to function.  In Wallenberg Syndrome either the
vertebral artery or one of its connections, the inferior cerebellar artery or
both become blocked.  Since they serve portions of the brain that serve the
eye and throat, there may be loss of function of the vocal chords on one side,
difficulty in swallowing, loss of corneal reflexes, double vision, as well as
vertigo, vomiting and hiccups.  The condition may be diagnosed with the aid of
angiography which displays the arteries or electroencephalograms which detect
brain waves.  Treatment includes the use of medications to thin the blood
(anticoagulants) and the symptoms may disappear suddenly or after a period of
months in many cases.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
