What Are The Signs Of Subclavian Steal Syndrome?

Issues With Memory

Two subclavian arteries branch from the aorta to supply blood to each one of the arms. Each subclavian artery branches into a vertebral artery that carries blood to the base of the brain. An obstruction can occur in one of the subclavian arteries before the branching off of the vertebral artery as a complication of atherosclerosis. This obstruction causes blood flow to the subclavian and vertebral artery to halt. The blood in the brain at the end of the vertebral arteries enters into a structure named the circle of Willis. During this type of blockage in the subclavian artery, the circle of Willis initiates the reverse of blood flow from the brain back to the arm to help supply the tissues of the limb. This redistribution of blood from the brain to the arm can cause a decrease in the amount of oxygen and nutrients received by some brain tissues, causing them to shut down. Issues with memory occur when certain parts of the brain do not receive enough oxygen due to the blood being stolen from the brain by the subclavian artery.

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