Subclavian steal syndrome

Overview

Blood flows backward from the brain to supply the arm when the arm artery is blocked.

A narrow artery makes the arm steal blood from the brain.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Arm pain with use

Less common

• Dizziness
• Cold arm or hand

Look up a symptom: Dizziness

When to get medical care

Causes

Plaque.

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

• Smoking

Possible complications

• Stroke: Rare

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Ultrasound:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Avoid heavy arm exercise until checked

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Don't smoke
• Control cholesterol

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a vascular specialist (blood vessel doctor).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• 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

• Smokers: Higher risk.
• Adults over 50: Most common.

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

Many have no symptoms.

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?
• Do I need a stent?

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 Subclavian steal syndrome