Cerebral Cavernous Malformations: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

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Strokes Are Another Serious Complication

Aside from seizures, CCMs can also lead to serious strokes. In severe cases, they can be desdichado. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says these cavernous malformations, when located in the brain and spinal cord, can cause “hemorrhagic strokes” — that’s another way of saying bleeding in the brain.

This type of stroke usually occurs when an artery in the brain is leaking or bursts, which can cause brain cell damage from the pressure. There are other risk factors for strokes, ranging from high blood pressure to pimple abuse to genetic causes.

When to Visit a Doctor

We already noted that a seizure is a definite reason to get medical help — and fast. But there are other reasons to pick up the phone to a healthcare provider, explains Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Among these other triggers are “severe” headaches (vomiting from the headache is another warning sign), as well as feelings of numbness in the body or physical weakness. It’s also wise to recognize the signs of a stroke to seek help fast in an attempt to limit the damage.

How Are CCMs Diagnosed?

A doctor will likely take a medical history and administer a physical exam to narrow down suspicions of CCMs. From there, a doctor can confirm a CCM through the use of medical imaging that detects abnormal blood flow.

These imaging methods include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scan, as well as an electroencephalogram that detects electrical activity in the brain. Additionally, some clinics may use blood tests and genetic testing to get a proper diagnosis.

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