Brain Stem Stroke Symptoms

The brain stem is a critical part of the brain. It controls heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, swallowing, eye movement, speech, and body movement. After a brain stem stroke, it can leave the patient with severe impairments.

Paralysis

After a brain stem stroke, patients may have either total paralysis or partial paralysis. If the stroke occurs on the right half of the brain, paralysis will be on the left side of the body; the opposite occurs if the stroke occurs on the left half of the brain.

Coma

When breathing and heart rate are impaired, patients can enter into a coma. Depending on the extent of the damage, patients can be in a permanent vegetative state.

Ataxia

Ataxia, or difficulties with movement, are common with brain stem stroke patients.

Speaking Difficulties

Brain stem stroke patients may have problems speaking afterward. In addition, they may also display problems swallowing.

Nystagmus

Nystagmus is the uncontrolled movement of the eyes, which can result in dizziness and nausea.

References

• The Ohio State University Medical Center