Horner Syndrome

Horner syndrome, also known as oculosympathetic palsy or Bernard-Horner syndrome, is a relatively rare neurological syndrome that affects your eye and the surrounding tissues on one side of your face.

It occurs due to a disruption of the pathway of the sympathetic nerves that connect your brainstem to your eyes and face. These nerves control involuntary functions, such as sweating (perspiration) and the dilation and constriction of the pupils of your eyes.

Is Horner syndrome life-threatening?

The symptoms associated with Horner syndrome generally don’t cause significant issues with your health or vision. However, they can indicate the presence of an underlying health problem that may be very serious. It’s important to seek medical care if you develop symptoms of Horner syndrome to determine the underlying cause.

Who does Horner syndrome affect?

Horner syndrome can affect anyone at any age. About 5% of people with the condition have the congenital form (present from birth).

How common is Horner syndrome?

Horner syndrome is uncommon. It affects approximately 1 in 6,000 people.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

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