

HHT affects the way blood vessels form in several areas of the body, including the brain. Brain AVMs are seen in some people who have hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), also known as Osler-Weber-Rendu syndrome. Researchers believe most brain AVMs are present at birth and form during fetal development, but brain AVMs can develop later in life, as well. In an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), blood passes quickly from the arteries to the veins, disrupting the typical blood flow and depriving the surrounding tissues of oxygen. A bleeding brain AVM is life-threatening and requires emergency medical attention. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of a brain AVM, such as seizures, headaches or other symptoms. It can also cause swollen veins that are visible on the scalp, seizures, failure to thrive and congestive heart failure. The major blood vessel involved in this type of brain AVM can cause fluid to build up in the brain and the head to swell. It causes signs and symptoms that emerge soon or immediately after birth. One severe type of brain AVM involves the vein of Galen. Research hasn't found that pregnancy increases the risk of hemorrhage for people with a brain AVM. The effects slowly build and often cause symptoms in early adulthood.īy middle age, however, brain AVMs tend to remain stable and are less likely to cause symptoms. Brain AVMs can damage brain tissue over time. Signs and symptoms of a brain AVM may begin at any age but usually emerge between ages 10 and 40. Confusion or inability to understand others.Some people may experience more-serious neurological signs and symptoms, depending on the location of the AVM, including: Muscle weakness or numbness in one part of the body.Headache or pain in one area of the head.In about half of all brain AVMs, hemorrhage is the first sign.īut some people with brain AVM may experience signs and symptoms other than bleeding, such as: A brain arteriovenous malformation may not cause any signs or symptoms until the AVM ruptures, resulting in hemorrhage.
