Hypoplasia of the vertebral artery is a violation of the development of the vessel responsible for supplying the brain with blood. It is worth noting that the hypoplasia of the artery, located on the right side of the bone canal, the spine is recorded much more often with hypoplasia of the left vertebral artery.
The causes of congenital hypoplasia may be anomalies of intrauterine development caused by:
- the use of alcohol and drugs;
- fetal injury during pregnancy;
- overheating as a result of bath visits, abuse of sunbathing;
- exposure to radiation;
- autoimmune diseases suffered during pregnancy.
Symptoms of hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery
Since, with this diagnosis, the brain does not receive a sufficient number of substances supplied with blood and necessary for normal functioning, signs of hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery can be expressed as follows:
- dizziness;
- disruption of the vestibular apparatus and coordination;
- high blood pressure;
- numbness or loss of sensitivity of some parts of the body;
- frequent headaches;
- short-term and rare faints .
Treatment of hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery
The diagnosis of a violation of the functioning of the artery is made by a neuropathologist on the basis of examination and complaints of the patient. The data are supported by the results of ultrasound of vertebral arteries and MRI. The narrowing of the vessel to two millimeters, with a norm of 3.6-3.8 mm is the main criterion in the diagnosis.
To correct such an inborn defect, as hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery, it is possible only by means of operation. Typically, in adulthood, the compensatory forces of the body are exhausted, there are diseases that can provoke an exacerbation of the hypoplasia of the vertebral artery (often on the right). The surgical method is also used in case of progression of the disease at an earlier age or active formation of blood clots. Stenting or angioplasty is used to expand the hypoplastic vessel.
When the process is sluggish, maintenance therapy is used, which includes taking medications that promote vasodilation and blood thinning:
- Instenon forte - improvement of cerebral blood supply;
- Betaserk - improvement of blood microcirculation;
- Mildronate - protecting the heart from lack of oxygen;
- Cardiotion - metabolic, cardioprotective effect;
- Quinton - vasodilation and improvement of blood supply to the brain.
The intake of these drugs contributes to the removal of signs of hypoplasia, such as drowsiness, lethargy, headaches and dizziness.
In addition to taking medication, one should resort to adjusting the habitual way of life that will improve its quality:
- A full-fledged sleep, the use of orthopedic pillows , ensuring the correct position of the neck muscles during rest.
- Proper nutrition, low in cholesterol, which will help reduce the likelihood of atherosclerosis. Sufficient content of fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits.
- Exercise stress. Especially suitable for the treatment of this disease is yoga, swimming, regular active walks in the fresh air. Also, a neurologist can offer
application of medical gymnastics. - If possible, eliminate strong psychological and emotional shocks.
- A complete cessation of smoking, which is a provoker of vasoconstriction.
Consequences of hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery
Hypoplasia of the right vertebral artery is diagnosed in about 8-10% of the population, but is not a death sentence with the correct approach in treatment.