Brain Angiogram for Clots, Blockages & Stroke Risk: What to Know

### What is a brain angiogram? A brain angiogram is an imaging examination that allows doctors to assess the blood vessels supplying the brain. Depending on the clinical situation, doctors may use CT angiography, MR angiography, or catheter-based cerebral angiography. ### Why is it performed? It may be recommended when doctors need to evaluate suspected blood-vessel problems such as: - Arterial narrowing or blockage - Blood clots - Brain aneurysms - Abnormal blood-vessel connections - Causes of certain strokes or neurological symptoms ### Why is early evaluation important? Problems affecting the blood vessels of the brain can sometimes lead to stroke or other serious neurological complications. Appropriate imaging can help doctors determine the cause and plan treatment. ### When should you seek emergency care? Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, sudden loss of vision, severe sudden headache, or loss of consciousness can be signs of a stroke or another neurological emergency and require immediate medical attention. ### Which doctor should you consult? If you have symptoms or a condition requiring evaluation of the brain's blood vessels, consult a neurologist or appropriate neurovascular specialist for further assessment.