An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is congenital, meaning it is something you’re born with. Simply stated, it is a problematic network of arteries and veins in the brain. This tangled network of blood vessels can leak, causing bleeding in the brain, and possibly a stroke.
Overview
Headaches or a seizure may signal the onset of a stroke related to arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Other neurological symptoms are possible, including muscle weakness, tingling or numbness and problems with vision, speech or movement. It is also possible to experience no symptoms prior to a rupture in the arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
It’s important to call 911 and get to an emergency room quickly if you think you may be having a stroke. Starting treatment quickly is very important to your ultimate recovery from stroke, whether it’s caused by arteriovenous malformation (AVM) or any other reason.
Our approach
Your doctor may perform a variety of tests to determine whether you have an arteriovenous malformation (AVM):
- Cerebral arteriography (Uses a colored dye and X-ray imaging to see the blood vessels in the brain)
- Computerized tomography (CT) scan
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan