CADASIL (inherited small-vessel stroke disease)

Overview

Symptoms often start with migraines in the 30s, then strokes in the 40s to 60s.

Controlling blood pressure and not smoking matter.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Migraines with aura

Less common

• Strokes

Look up a symptom: Headache

When to get medical care

Causes

Genes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children of a parent with it: 1 in 2 chance

Possible complications

• Memory loss and dementia: Common in later stages
• Depression: Common

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:
• Gene test:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Don't smoke
• Control blood pressure

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Genetic counseling

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor) or a neurosurgeon.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• American Stroke Association: Recovery tips and support groups for survivors and families.
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults 30 to 50: Symptoms often start.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Care slows complications.

Healthy habits may slow it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Should my family be tested?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on CADASIL (inherited small-vessel stroke disease)