Tear in a neck or brain artery (arterial dissection)

Overview

A tear in the artery wall can cause a clot or stroke.

Neck pain with headache is a warning sign.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Neck pain with headache
• Stroke signs
• Neck pain or stiffness

Less common

• Droopy eyelid
• Ringing in ears

Look up a symptom: Headache

When to get medical care

Causes

Artery tear.

Who is more likely to get it

• Neck trauma
• Chiropractic neck manipulation (rare)

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• CT or MRI angiogram:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Avoid neck manipulation

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Avoid hard neck twisting

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve 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.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Adults under 50: A top stroke cause.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most heal in months.

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 follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

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 Tear in a neck or brain artery (arterial dissection)