Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Missing right vertebral artery

I recently was told that I was born without my right vertebral artery (confirmed with MRI). Neurologist said I had nothing to worry about but, it might be the cause of some of my headaches, I also have Hypotension (90/60 with resting heart rate of 50-60 is normal for me).  I have frequent spells of severe fatigue, light and foggy headed, racing or heart of chest pains.  I am wondering if I should seek a second opinion.  I am 52 years old and in general good health.  I have collapsed while running on a treadmill before and was so dizzy and fatigued that my husband had to pick me up and drive me home, then other times I can workout without problems.  This is frustrating.  Been going like this for 40 years.  ANY HELP would be appreciated.
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
I recently found out my right vertebral artery is missing too. I was driving one morning and my head shot back and I felt like my brain was sinking in my head. Symptoms of severe brain fog, fatigue, headaches progressed over the next month. All my bloodwork came back fine.  Recently had a MRI, MRA & EEG to see what could be found. MRA revealed right vertebral artery is missing. Waiting on follow up appt with Neuro but unsettling to think this could be my new normal. I’m curious if you’ve had any recent developments? Any strategyies to offer on getting through the brain fog? Thank you in advance!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thank you for the feedback.  I am going to forward you comments to my dr.
Helpful - 0
1711789 tn?1361308007
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi there!

While the absence of the vertebral artery may not be a problem, the low blood pressure could be the possible cause of your symptoms and may need to be corrected. Other possibilities that may need to be considered include cardiac arrhythmias, inadequate diet, low blood sugar, hormonal/ endocrine imbalance, micronutrient deficiencies etc. I would suggest considering an evaluation by an internist or a cardiologist and depending on the cause diagnosed, it can be managed accordingly.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!
Helpful - 0
1 Comments
I am missing my Right Vertebral artery as well. I have migraine headaches and I have right side weakness. I also have bouts of fatigue, hearth palpitations as well. I am undergoing many test at UC Davis but no one can tell me what is going on???
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Neurology Community

Top Neurology Answerers
620923 tn?1452915648
Allentown, PA
5265383 tn?1669040108
ON
1756321 tn?1547095325
Queensland, Australia
1780921 tn?1499301793
Queen Creek, AZ
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out how beta-blocker eye drops show promising results for acute migraine relief.
In this special Missouri Medicine report, doctors examine advances in diagnosis and treatment of this devastating and costly neurodegenerative disease.
Here are 12 simple – and fun! – ways to boost your brainpower.
Discover some of the causes of dizziness and how to treat it.
Discover the common causes of headaches and how to treat headache pain.
Two of the largest studies on Alzheimer’s have yielded new clues about the disease