A pontine stroke happens when blood vessel blockage or bleeding prevents blood flow to a part of the brain stem called the pons.
Pontine strokes are common, accounting for about 7% of strokes.[speaker-mute]5[/speaker-mute]
Pons and brain stem stroke symptoms may differ from the hallmark stroke symptoms, and may include:
Dizziness, vertigo, and severe balance issues
Double vision
Slurred speech
Swallowing difficulties
Reduced alertness
Motor and/or sensory impairment
Hemiparesis: weakness and clumsiness in the face, arms, and legs on one side of the body