To define what an arteriovenous malformation is, it is necessary to remember that our circulatory system is made up of blood vessels that carry blood from the heart (arteries) and to the heart (veins).
An arteriovenous malformation, therefore, is an entangled complex of blood vessels that prevents the normal functioning of the arteries and veins.
It is a rare anomaly, which can occur in any part of the body; and when it occurs in the brain, we are faced with a cerebral arteriovenous malformation.
Among the possible causes is the rupture of blood vessels, which produces a cerebral hemorrhage; and among the most frequent symptoms are headaches and seizures.
But other signs and symptoms may also occur, such as:
- Headache or pain in one part of the head
- Weakness, numbness, or paralysis
- Sight loss
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion or inability to understand others
- Severe instability
It is necessary that the person who perceives any of these signs or symptoms mentioned, particularly when it comes to headaches or seizures, receive immediate medical attention, because their life may be in danger.
In fact, since a cerebral arteriovenous malformation directly affects the functioning of the circulatory system, it can lead to abrupt and sudden cardiac arrest, even in people with apparent good health, and cause what we know as sudden death.
In an article published in the journal of Legal Medicine of Costa Rica, the case of a patient is related, a man of a 36-year-old man who was the victim of a sudden death. The authors of the article tell us of a patient “… with no known pathological personal history, who expressed via telephone that he had a“ severe headache ”, later he was found in his home by his wife and Red Cross staff in cardiorespiratory arrest, he underwent a cycle of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), presented sinus rhythm and was transferred to the Hospital, where he was admitted without vital signs… ”.
Knowledge and experience show the importance that a patient who notices the signs or perceives the aforementioned symptoms, seek help. Timely care and a good specialist in neurological medicine and vascular surgery can save your life.
Contact me! I have the academic preparation, experience, and specialized equipment to provide treatment for arteriovenous malformations.
