What Happens If Cerebral Vasospasm Becomes Severe?

Cerebral vasospasm, when it becomes severe, can lead to a range of serious health complications. This condition involves the abnormal narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, which can significantly impact blood flow and overall brain function.

Reduced Blood Flow and Early Symptoms

One of the initial effects of severe cerebral vasospasm is the narrowing of the blood vessel lumen, which restricts cerebral blood flow. This can cause cerebral hypoperfusion, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and excessive sleepiness. These signs often indicate a mild stage of the condition but should not be ignored as they can progress rapidly without timely intervention.

Progression to Stroke

If the vasospasm worsens, it can lead to cerebral infarction or stroke. This is particularly common in patients who have experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage. The presence of blood and its breakdown products in the subarachnoid space can trigger prolonged and intense vasospasm. When a major artery is affected, the brain tissue supplied by that vessel may suffer from ischemia, potentially resulting in a large area of brain damage known as a cerebral infarction.

Life-Threatening Complications

In the most severe cases, patients may experience acute neurological deterioration at the onset of vasospasm. This can include profound disturbances in consciousness and increased intracranial pressure. As pressure builds within the skull, it can lead to brain herniation—a dangerous condition in which brain tissue is displaced and compressed. This often results in irreversible brain damage or death, making it one of the most critical consequences of severe cerebral vasospasm.