Vertebral Artery Compression Treatment

Located in the neck and branching up to the brain, the two vertebral arteries run parallel with the carotid artery. They carry blood from the heart into the brain. Some type of partial blockage might cause compression to these arteries, sometimes referred to as vertebral artery syndrome or vertebral artery compression. Conditions that might cause this are plaque buildup (atherosclerosis) or a defect or injury to the artery. Treatment and management of this condition can improve mobility, overall health and be lifesaving in come cases.

Symptoms

• When an individual with vertebral artery compression turns his head, it causes the spine to press against some of the arteries that provide blood flow to the brain. If the artery has a blockage, the result is decreased blood flow. The symptoms might include dizziness, rapid movement of the eyes called nystagmus, and possibly sudden loss of consciousness. Initially the conditions might be mild. However, as the blockage of the artery becomes larger, they will worsen.

Drug Treatment

• Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the blockage. Imaging such as ultrasound and MRI should give the doctor an idea of the cause and therefore the best method of successful treatment. If it is determined that the blockage is due to atherosclerosis, drug therapy might only be a preventative measure to avoid further obstructions within your body. Vascular drugs that improve blood flow by reducing constriction or closing of the arteries are one choice. Anticoagulants will help keep the blood thin and allow it to move more freely.

Surgical Options

• Ultimately, surgery will probably be required. As with drug therapy, the surgery will depend on the underlying cause of the compression. For atherosclerosis, an angioplasty might help. A tiny balloon, inserted into the artery, is pushed up to relieve the partial blockage.

  For damaged or defective arteries, the solution is more complicated. Picture the artery in your neck as a garden hose. When the hose is continually bent, a crease forms. This crease prevents good flow of water going through the hose. Ways to correct this problem might include cutting away the crease and graphing on a new piece of hose or medically, an arterial graph.

  You could take the hose, cut it off right before the crease, and connect it to another hose. This would be a bypass. A final scenario might include inserting something to provide stability to the hose, utilizing an artificial piece to replace the damaged artery or provide it with support.

Lifestyle Changes

• Since a primary cause of vertebral artery compression may be a buildup of plaque, some lifestyle changes are required to avoid further complications. A healthy diet free of cholesterol and fat will go along way in preventing problems with your arteries. Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels will need monitoring. Smoking is a known risk factor for heart and artery disease, so if you smoke, it's time to quit. The doctor may give you a plan for improving your exercise routine. Any exercise with this condition should only be at your doctor's recommendation.