Cerebrovascular Disease

Overview

Cerebrovascular disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the blood vessels and blood supply to the brain. These disorders can lead to serious, life-threatening events such as strokes or transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), also known as mini-strokes.

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we provide specialist care to diagnose, treat, and support patients affected by cerebrovascular conditions, using a multidisciplinary approach to optimise recovery and long-term outcomes.

What Is Cerebrovascular Disease?

Cerebrovascular disease occurs when blood flow to the brain is restricted or interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can result in temporary or permanent brain damage depending on the severity and duration of the event.

The most common types of cerebrovascular disease include:

• Stroke (Ischaemic or Haemorrhagic)
• Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
• Cerebral aneurysm
• Vascular dementia
• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)

Symptoms of Cerebrovascular Disease

Symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected and the type of condition. Warning signs can appear suddenly and may include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or confusion
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause
• Dizziness or difficulty walking

Symptoms of a TIA may resolve within minutes or hours, but still require urgent medical evaluation, as they can be a warning sign of a future stroke.

Causes and Risk Factors

Cerebrovascular disease is often caused by:

• Atherosclerosis – build-up of plaque in arteries
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart disease or atrial fibrillation
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
• Genetics or family history of stroke

Ageing also increases the risk, particularly over the age of 55.

When to Seek Emergency Help

If you or someone else shows signs of stroke, act FAST:

• Face – is the face drooping on one side?
• Arms – can they raise both arms?
• Speech – is speech slurred or confused?
• Time – call 999 immediately

Quick treatment can greatly reduce the risk of long-term disability or death.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of cerebrovascular disease:

• Medications to reduce stroke risk, such as antiplatelets, anticoagulants, or statins
• Surgery, such as carotid endarterectomy or aneurysm repair
• Thrombolytic therapy for certain stroke types
• Lifestyle modifications and risk factor management
• Neurological rehabilitation including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy

At the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, our goal is to support both acute care and long-term recovery.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Following a stroke or TIA, many patients benefit from a structured rehabilitation programme. Our neuro-rehabilitation services focus on helping patients regain independence, improve mobility, and manage communication or cognitive difficulties. We provide:

• One-to-one physiotherapy and strength-building
• Occupational therapy for daily tasks
• Speech and language therapy
• Emotional and psychological support

Our expert team supports every stage of recovery, from hospital care to home and community integration.

Why Choose Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

As a specialist rehabilitation and medical centre, we offer:

• Consultant-led care in neurology and vascular medicine
• On-site neurorehabilitation facilities
• Advanced diagnostics and stroke prevention services
• Individualised treatment plans and long-term support

We’re committed to helping each patient achieve the best possible outcome and quality of life.

Arranging To Visit A Private GP

If you are experiencing any signs or symptoms, schedule an appointment with Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital for expert evaluation and treatment.. Make an appointment with one of our private GPs who can refer you to our specialist cardiologists. Appointments are available to everyone and can often be booked for the same day. There is no need to be registered with our The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, or live locally.

If you have insurance which covers a GP visit, we can in most cases invoice the insurer directly. Where you are paying directly, the cost for a 30 minute consultation is £100.

Any additional costs will always be discussed.

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