Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency

Vertebrobasilar insufficiency is a decrease in blood flow in the vertebral and basilar arteries, which supply the back of the brain, the brainstem, and the cerebellum. It can be due to narrowing or hardening of these vessels.

Common symptoms: dizziness or vertigo, double or blurred vision, unsteadiness when walking, weakness, and difficulty speaking, often transiently.

Common causes: it is associated with atherosclerosis, hypertension, and other factors that affect vascular health.

Which specialist manages it? The neurologist evaluates the symptoms and, depending on the case, the angiologist or the vascular surgeon take part to study the circulation. With persistent dizziness or sudden visual changes, going in for a medical evaluation allows the workup to be guided in a timely manner.