Subclavian steal syndrome

Symptoms you may have include:

• Upper extremity claudication (weakness, fatigue or pain in the arm area)
• Skin discoloration
• Blood pressure changes
• Neurological changes such as dizziness or blurred vision
• Breathing problems
• Reduced pulse

Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you.

The following tests can be carried out if they suspect you may have subclavian steal syndrome:

• Physical examination to assess general health, including bloody pressure and arm movement.
• Ultrasound imaging to help determine the extent of arterial blockage
• Angiography to monitor blood vessels. A special dye is inserted into your blood. The vessels will then be visible on X-Ray.

Your consultant will discuss your treatment options and help determine the best possible approach for you. These might include:

• An angioplasty. Your surgeon will carefully inflate a small balloon inside your artery to open its walls. A stent can be inserted to help keep the artery open and limit blockage
• An endarterectomy
•  is a surgical procedure that removes the plaque (fatty deposits) blocking or narrowing your affected artery. This allows blood to flow more freely through the aortic arch