Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis

Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST)

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare form of stroke caused by a blood clot in the brain’s venous system, which is responsible for draining blood away from the brain. When one of these veins becomes blocked, pressure builds, leading to brain swelling, bleeding, or infarction (stroke).

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we support adults recovering from the neurological consequences of CVST through our specialist neurorehabilitation programmes. Whether you’ve experienced a stroke, seizure, or long-term cognitive impact, we provide structured, consultant-led care tailored to your recovery goals.

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What Is CVST?

CVST occurs when a blood clot forms in the dural venous sinuses — large veins within the brain that collect and drain blood. Unlike typical ischaemic strokes (caused by artery blockages), CVST affects the brain’s venous return.

This can lead to:

• Venous infarction (stroke due to back-pressure)
• Intracranial haemorrhage
• Increased intracranial pressure
• Neurological symptoms such as seizures, weakness, or cognitive changes

Although rare, CVST can affect people of any age and often requires hospital treatment and follow-up rehabilitation.

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Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing CVST, including:

• Blood clotting disorders (e.g. thrombophilia)
• Pregnancy or the postnatal period
• Hormonal contraception (oestrogen-containing pills)
• Dehydration
• Infections (e.g. ear, sinus, or brain infections)
• Autoimmune conditions (e.g. lupus, vasculitis)
• Cancer
• Head injury or neurosurgery

In some cases, no clear cause is found (idiopathic CVST).

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Symptoms of CVST

Symptoms of CVST can vary depending on the location and severity of the blockage. Common signs include:

• Severe headache, often the first symptom
• Visual disturbances (blurred or double vision)
• Seizures
• Weakness or numbness, often on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding language
• Confusion or memory problems
• Loss of consciousness in severe cases

These symptoms can mimic other types of stroke or neurological conditions, which makes prompt diagnosis essential.

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Diagnosis

CVST is usually diagnosed using brain imaging and blood tests, including:

• MRI with MR venography (MRV)
• CT venography (CTV)
• Blood clotting tests
• Lumbar puncture (if infection or pressure is suspected)

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to reduce the risk of permanent brain injury.

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Treatment

Initial treatment typically involves:

• Anticoagulant medication (blood thinners) – to dissolve the clot and prevent new ones
• Medication to reduce intracranial pressure
• Treatment of underlying causes (e.g. infection, autoimmune condition)

In some cases, more intensive interventions like endovascular thrombolysis or surgical decompression may be needed if symptoms worsen.

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CVST and Long-Term Impact

While many people recover fully from CVST, some experience long-term neurological effects, especially if diagnosis or treatment is delayed. These may include:

• Post-stroke weakness or fatigue
• Cognitive impairment (attention, memory, processing)
• Ongoing seizures or epilepsy
• Emotional or behavioural changes
• Balance or coordination difficulties

Our rehabilitation service is designed to address these challenges through a tailored, inpatient programme.

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Inpatient Rehabilitation at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

We provide structured neurorehabilitation for adults who have experienced:

• CVST-related stroke or brain injury
• Cognitive or functional impairments after hospital discharge
• Ongoing neurological symptoms following anticoagulant treatment
• Emotional or physical challenges linked to venous stroke recovery

Our multidisciplinary inpatient programmes include:

• Neurological physiotherapy – for movement, strength, and coordination
• Occupational therapy – to support daily living and independent function
• Speech and language therapy – for communication and cognitive issues
• Neuropsychology – for mental health, memory, and adjustment
• 24/7 nursing care and consultant-led oversight

Each treatment plan is designed around the individual’s needs and goals.

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Who We Help

We welcome adults (aged 18+) who are:

• Recovering from cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
• Experiencing post-stroke effects such as weakness, fatigue, or memory issues
• Seeking intensive, structured inpatient rehabilitation
• Looking for long-term support to maximise independence and function

To learn more or request an assessment, please call 01296 678800 or contact us online.

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Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• One of the UK’s leading private neurorehabilitation centres
• Experience with rare and complex stroke presentations
• Multidisciplinary team delivering daily therapy
• Calm, well-equipped inpatient environment
• Consultant-led care with 24/7 clinical support