What is Brain AVM?
Our arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the brain while the veins carries blood with less oxygen away from the brain and back to the heart. A brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain. It may develop anywhere in your body but occurs most often in the brain or spine and may begin at any age but usually emerge between ages 10 and 40. Brain AVM is rare; Based on studies, it occurs in less than 1% of the general population. AVMs are more common in males than in females.
A brain arteriovenous malformation may not cause any signs or symptoms until the AVM ruptures, resulting in bleeding in the brain (hemorrhage). In about half of all brain AVMs, hemorrhage is the first sign. Common symptoms may vary depending on where the AVM is located:
50% of patients with an AVM have an intracranial hemorrhage.
25% have focal or generalized seizures.
50% suffer from headache due to increased blood flow
15% may have difficulty with movement, speech and vision.
To diagnose a brain AVM, your neurologist will review your symptoms and conduct a physical examination. Most AVMs are detected with either a computed tomography (CT) brain scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan. These tests are very good at detecting brain AVMs. They also provide information about the location and size of the AVM and whether it may have bled.
There are several potential treatment options for brain AVM. The main goal of treatment is to prevent hemorrhage, but treatment to control seizures or other neurological complications also may be considered. Your neurologist will determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition, depending on your age, health, and the size and location of the abnormal blood vessels. #avm #brainavm #arteriovenousmalformation #brain #spine #doctor #neurologist #winnielimkhoo #neurology #health #diet #exercise #lifestyle
