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A cerebellar stroke occurs when the blood supply to the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance, is interrupted. This interruption can be due to a blockage in an artery (ischaemic stroke) or bleeding within the brain (haemorrhagic stroke).
The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, beneath the cerebrum and above the brainstem. Despite its small size, a stroke in this area can cause significant and potentially life-threatening complications.
Types of cerebellar stroke
Ischaemic cerebellar stroke. This type occurs when a blood clot obstructs an artery supplying blood to the cerebellum. The blockage can result from a clot that forms in the brain (thrombotic stroke) or a clot that travels from another part of the body (embolic stroke).
Haemorrhagic cerebellar stroke. This type occurs when a blood vessel in the cerebellum bursts, leading to bleeding in the brain. It can be caused by high blood pressure, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations.
What are the symptoms of a cerebellar stroke?
The symptoms of a cerebellar stroke can vary depending on the severity and specific location of the stroke. Common symptoms include:
Sudden dizziness, severe vertigo or loss of balance and coordination.
Nausea and vomiting, often associated with dizziness and vertigo.
Sudden, severe headache, particularly at the back of the head.
Unsteady gait or inability to walk without support.
Slurred speech or difficulty articulating words.
Double vision or rapid, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus).
Weakness or numbness especially on one side of the body, affecting the arms, legs, or face.
When to seek emergency medical attention?
It is crucial to act FAST and seek emergency medical attention if you notice the following stroke symptoms in a loved one:
Face drooping when you ask them to smile
Arm weakness when you ask them to raise one or both arms
Speech difficulty when you ask them a question or difficulty understanding what you have to say
Time to call emergency services
What causes a cerebellar stroke?
Several factors can lead to a cerebellar stroke:
Atherosclerosis. Build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries can narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the cerebellum.
Blood clots. Clots can form in the heart or other blood vessels and travel to the brain, causing a blockage.
High blood pressure. Chronic hypertension can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of both ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes.
Aneurysms and Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM). Abnormal blood vessels can rupture, leading to bleeding in the brain.
Heart disease. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of blood clots forming and travelling to the brain.
Smoking. Tobacco use can damage blood vessels and contribute to atherosclerosis and clot formation.
Vessel Dissection. Tearing of the blood vessels to the cerebellum is known to cause cerebellar stroke. This may be caused by excessive neck manipulation or trauma.
What are the complications and related diseases for a cerebellar stroke?
A cerebellar stroke can lead to several serious complications:
Brain swelling can occur, increasing pressure within the skull, potentially leading to herniation and death.
Hydrocephalus can result from the stroke, referring to an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, requiring surgical intervention.
Persistent vertigo and dizziness can affect daily activities.
Speech and swallowing difficulties, leading to complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Cognitive impairment such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating can occur if other parts of the brain are affected.
How do you prevent a cerebellar stroke?
Preventing a cerebellar stroke involves managing risk factors and leading a healthy lifestyle:
Regular monitoring and management of hypertension.
Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.
Regular physical activity to keep the cardiovascular system healthy.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as both can increase the risk of stroke.
Manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and other related conditions.
Routine health screenings to monitor and manage risk factors.
Avoid neck manipulations, in particular neck massages or unaccustomed movements to the neck.
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