Is AVM Genetic?

Your heart health plays a crucial part in your total wellness. Getting exercise, having a healthy diet, and managing stress all factor into how well your body functions. Some people work hard to care for their health in every stage of life, but sometimes it isn’t enough. Arteriovenous Malformation, or AVM, is a condition that surprises many people. While it can have severe consequences in some cases, early intervention and treatment can improve your long-term health outlook. If you’re wondering what AVM is and how it could impact you, here are a few things about the condition to help you stay on guard.

What is AVM?

AVM is a rare condition that affects less than 200,000 people each year. Although it is rare, it can have a significant impact. AVM is characterized by tangled blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord. Medical experts debate the exact cause of AVM, but there are some instances where genetics play a role in developing the illness either at birth or later in life. If left untreated, an AVM can rupture and cause hemorrhaging in the brain or other areas of the body.

Symptoms of AVM

An AVM can alter blood flow to critical areas of the body. When this happens, it can cause oxygen-rich blood to flow past areas that need it and deprive them of oxygen. People often don’t realize they have an AVM until a rupture occurs. When this happens, it can cause many symptoms, such as, 

• Headache
• Muscle weakness
• Seizures
• Vision loss
• Confusion

Is an AVM Life Threatening?

If an AVM causes hemorrhaging in the brain, it can lead to a host of other symptoms. An AVM can be dangerous if left untreated, making it essential to seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms. In addition to hemorrhaging, an AVM can cause life-altering neurological damage.

Treating An AVM

A qualified medical professional can formally diagnose an AVM. The team of Texas Neurosurgery has years of experience treating issues like AVM and other neurological concerns. Our treatment recommendations depend on your situation, and we are ready to help address your concerns. To learn more about how we can help, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our office at 214-823-2052.