Yes, extreme stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of vessel rupture, but underlying conditions like hypertension and aneurysms are the main causes.
Recovery varies; some regain full function with rehabilitation, while others may have lasting impairments. Physical therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle changes are crucial.
People with congenital vascular abnormalities, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), or a family history of AVMs may have a higher risk.
The exact cause is unknown, but most AVMs are present at birth (congenital). Some may develop later due to unknown factors.
Without treatment, a cerebral dural AVF can cause:
Brain hemorrhages (stroke or bleeding in the brain)
Cognitive impairments
Vision problems
Neurological deficits like paralysis, numbness, or difficulty speaking
A diagnosis is made through:
MRI or CT scans to detect abnormal blood vessels
Cerebral angiography (the gold standard for diagnosing AVFs) to locate the fistula and assess blood flow
MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) for a non-invasive method of imaging blood vessels
With early detection and proper treatment, many individuals experience significant symptom improvement or stabilization. However, recovery can depend on the degree of spinal cord damage and the effectiveness of treatment.
Yes, regular neurological evaluations and imaging tests are necessary to monitor recovery and detect any recurrence of the AVM. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may also help improve strength, mobility, and function after treatment.
If you experience sudden symptoms like numbness, difficulty speaking, or loss of balance, it’s important to act quickly. A common guideline is the FAST method:
Face: Does one side of the face droop?
Arms: Can you lift both arms?
Speech: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?
Time: If any of these symptoms are present, call emergency services immediately.
Patients with narrowed brain arteries, particularly those who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke, may be candidates for intracranial stenting. If you experience recurrent strokes or if medications are ineffective, your doctor might recommend this procedure.
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