What is the number one symptom of cervical arterial/vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI)?

What is the number one symptom of cervical arterial/vertebrobasilar insufficiency (VBI)?

• A. Dizziness
• B. Headache
• C. Neck pain
• D. Nausea

Answer: (A)

Vertebrobasilar insufficiency occurs when blood flow through the vertebral or basilar arteries to the brainstem and cerebellum is reduced. The most common symptom is dizziness or vertigo because those vestibular and cerebellar regions are highly sensitive to ischemia. In practice, patients may notice spinning, lightheadedness, or imbalance, and this can be triggered or worsened by neck movements that affect the vertebral arteries. While headache, neck pain, or nausea can accompany other conditions, they are less specific to VBI. Any new dizziness—especially with other brainstem signs or risk factors—should prompt urgent medical evaluation rather than musculoskeletal management.

Vertebrobasilar insufficiency occurs when blood flow through the vertebral or basilar arteries to the brainstem and cerebellum is reduced. The most common symptom is dizziness or vertigo because those vestibular and cerebellar regions are highly sensitive to ischemia. In practice, patients may notice spinning, lightheadedness, or imbalance, and this can be triggered or worsened by neck movements that affect the vertebral arteries. While headache, neck pain, or nausea can accompany other conditions, they are less specific to VBI. Any new dizziness—especially with other brainstem signs or risk factors—should prompt urgent medical evaluation rather than musculoskeletal management.