Cerebral Sinus Thrombosis
What is cerebral sinus thrombosis?
Cerebral sinus thrombosis is the blockage of the sinuses in the brain. Blood clots in the system of venous sinuses of the brain, leading to the formation of thrombus, and it can no longer drain from the brain, resulting in blood leakage into the tissues. In this case, a stroke-like condition develops.
Symptoms of cerebral sinus thrombosis
The symptoms of cerebral sinus thrombosis include:
- Coma;
- Weakness;
- Seizures;
- Confusion;
- Dizziness;
- Headache;
- Blurred vision;
- Speech problems;
- Numbness in the legs and arms;
- Loss of control over movement in a specific part of the body.
Risk factors for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Risk factors for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis include obesity, a history of thrombosis, vascular conditions such as Wegener’s granulomatosis (inflammation of blood vessels), lupus, Behcet’s syndrome (inflammation of blood vessels throughout the body), low blood pressure (in the brain), pregnancy, high estrogen levels after pregnancy, use of birth control pills, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Treatment for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis primarily involves medication. Anticoagulants are typically prescribed initially, and if there is no improvement after the first two days (which is rare), an endovascular approach may be used. This involves inserting a catheter into the venous system and thrombosis of blocked sinus is treated mechanically by dissolving or injecting specific medications that will cause the clot to dissolve.
With timely treatment, 80% of patients with this condition can make a full recovery, and the duration of recovery depends on the severity of the condition.
Preventive measures to avoid cerebral sinus thrombosis
The main risk group consists of women. For women who frequently take contraceptive pills, smoking is an additional risk factor. Therefore, giving up harmful habits can be considered a crucial preventive measure. Abstaining from alcohol and narcotic substances is also regarded as a preventive measure.
