Malformacje jamiste
Objawy

Malformacje jamiste (CCM) to patologiczne skupiska naczyń o cienkich ścianach, predysponujące do mikrowynaczynień i krwawień, najczęściej lokalizujące się w OUN, zwłaszcza w mózgu i rdzeniu kręgowym. Objawy są zróżnicowane i zależą od lokalizacji oraz historii krwawień; najczęściej występują napady padaczkowe (40-70% objawowych przypadków), bóle głowy, deficyty neurologiczne, zaburzenia czucia, mowy, równowagi i widzenia. Ryzyko krwawienia wynosi 0,5-6% rocznie, wzrastając do 23% w ciągu 5 lat u pacjentów z wcześniejszym krwotokiem. Krwawienia są zwykle niewielkie (~0,5 łyżeczki krwi), ale mogą prowadzić do poważnych deficytów, zwłaszcza gdy dotyczą pnia mózgu. CCM wykazują dynamikę zmian rozmiaru i liczby, co wpływa na przebieg kliniczny i wymaga regularnej kontroli MRI co 1-2 lata.

Objawy Malformacji Jamistych

Malformacje jamiste (ang. cavernous malformations, CCM) to nieprawidłowe skupiska naczyń krwionośnych o charakterystycznym wyglądzie przypominającym morwę lub jagodę. Ich ściany są cieńsze niż w normalnych naczyniach krwionośnych, co czyni je podatnymi na mikrowynaczynienia lub poważniejsze krwawienia. Mogą występować w różnych miejscach ciała, ale najpoważniejsze konsekwencje powodują w mózgu i rdzeniu kręgowym. Objawy malformacji jamistych są bardzo zróżnicowane i zależą od wielu czynników.123

Bezobjawowy przebieg malformacji jamistych

Znacząca część pacjentów z malformacjami jamistymi nie doświadcza żadnych objawów. Według różnych źródeł, od 25% do nawet 60% osób z CCM pozostaje bezobjawowych. Malformacje jamiste są często wykrywane przypadkowo podczas badań obrazowych wykonywanych z innych powodów, takich jak urazy głowy czy diagnostyka migreny.456 Bezobjawowe malformacje jamiste mogą pozostawać stabilne przez wiele lat, a niektóre osoby nigdy nie doświadczą żadnych objawów związanych z ich obecnością.7

Typowe objawy neurologiczne

Gdy malformacje jamiste stają się objawowe, najczęściej występują następujące symptomy:123

  • Napady padaczkowe – stanowią najczęstszy objaw CCM (40-70% objawowych przypadków), szczególnie jeśli malformacja znajduje się w korze mózgowej89
  • Silne bóle głowy – często nawracające i mogące się nasilać przy wystąpieniu mikrowynaczynienia1011
  • Osłabienie lub niedowład kończyn – zależnie od lokalizacji malformacji1213
  • Zaburzenia czucia i drętwienie – mogące dotyczyć różnych części ciała114
  • Zaburzenia mowy – trudności w formułowaniu słów lub rozumieniu mowy1516
  • Problemy z pamięcią i koncentracją – mogą wystąpić nawet bez jawnego krwawienia101
  • Zaburzenia równowagi i koordynacji – utrudniające chodzenie i codzienne funkcjonowanie1712
  • Zaburzenia widzenia – w tym podwójne widzenie, zaburzenia gałkoruchowe136

Objawy związane z krwawieniem

Krwawienie z malformacji jamistej jest główną przyczyną objawów neurologicznych. W zależności od wielkości krwawienia objawy mogą być łagodne lub poważne. Częstość krwawień szacuje się na 0,5-6% rocznie, ale ryzyko jest wyższe (około 23% w ciągu 5 lat) u pacjentów, którzy wcześniej doświadczyli już krwawienia.918

Objawy ostrego krwawienia z malformacji jamistej mogą obejmować:1920

  • Nagły, silny ból głowy, odmienny od wcześniejszych bólów
  • Nudności i wymioty
  • Nadwrażliwość na światło
  • Omdlenia lub utrata przytomności
  • Napady padaczkowe
  • Gwałtownie postępujące deficyty neurologiczne

W większości przypadków krwawienie z malformacji jamistej jest niewielkie (około pół łyżeczki krwi) i może nie powodować dodatkowych objawów. Jednakże ciężkie krwotoki mogą zagrażać życiu i prowadzić do długotrwałych problemów neurologicznych. Krwawienie w obrębie pnia mózgu jest szczególnie niebezpieczne, ponieważ może wpływać na podstawowe funkcje życiowe.18921

Objawy zależne od lokalizacji malformacji jamistej

Objawy malformacji jamistych są ściśle związane z ich lokalizacją w układzie nerwowym:32216

Malformacje jamiste w pniu mózgu i rdzeniu kręgowym są rzadsze, ale mogą powodować poważniejsze objawy w przypadku krwawienia.823

Progresja Choroby

Dynamiczna natura malformacji jamistych

Malformacje jamiste są strukturami dynamicznymi, które mogą zmieniać swoją wielkość i liczbę w czasie. Mogą mieć rozmiar od kilku milimetrów do kilku centymetrów. Ta dynamiczna natura sprawia, że objawy mogą się pojawiać i ustępować w miarę krwawienia i reabsorpcji krwi.19127

U wielu pacjentów obserwuje się następujący wzorzec:2418

  • Pojawienie się objawów po mikrowynaczynieniu
  • Stopniową poprawę w miarę wchłaniania się krwi
  • Nawrót objawów przy kolejnym krwawieniu

Taki cykliczny przebieg objawów jest charakterystyczny dla malformacji jamistych i może występować przez wiele lat.1425

Czynniki wpływające na ryzyko krwawienia

Ryzyko krwawienia z malformacji jamistej zależy od wielu czynników:926

  • Wcześniejsze krwawienie – malformacje, które wcześniej krwawiły, mają wyższe ryzyko ponownego krwawienia, szczególnie w ciągu pierwszych 2 lat
  • Lokalizacja – malformacje w pniu mózgu mają wyższe ryzyko krwawienia
  • Obecność towarzyszących anomalii żylnych – może zwiększać ryzyko krwawienia
  • Wielkość i liczba malformacji – większa liczba malformacji zwiększa prawdopodobieństwo wystąpienia objawów
  • Forma rodzinna vs. sporadyczna – forma rodzinna wiąże się z większym ryzykiem objawów

Dla pacjentów z przypadkowo wykrytą malformacją jamistą bez objawów, roczne ryzyko krwawienia jest niskie – około 0,33%. Natomiast dla osób z udokumentowanym wcześniejszym krwawieniem, ryzyko wzrasta znacząco – do około 4-25% rocznie.918

Wiek wystąpienia objawów

Malformacje jamiste mogą stać się objawowe w każdym wieku, jednak najczęściej objawy pojawiają się u osób między 20. a 40. rokiem życia. Około 30% osób z malformacjami jamistymi ostatecznie rozwinie objawy, najczęściej w tym przedziale wiekowym.32728

Mimo że choroba może wystąpić również u dzieci, większość pacjentów z objawami znajduje się w przedziale wiekowym 20-50 lat. U dzieci objawy mogą być trudniejsze do rozpoznania i mogą być mylone z innymi problemami rozwojowymi.2930

Długookresowa prognoza

Przebieg kliniczny i prognoza dla pacjentów z malformacjami jamistymi są bardzo zróżnicowane i zależą od wielu czynników:3116

  • Niektóre malformacje pozostają stabilne i bezobjawowe przez całe życie
  • Inne mogą powodować nawracające krwawienia z postępującym pogorszeniem funkcji neurologicznych
  • W rzadkich przypadkach masywne krwawienie może prowadzić do udaru, ciężkiego uszkodzenia neurologicznego lub śmierci

Długoterminowa prognoza jest jednak generalnie korzystna, z zachowaniem autonomii u około 80% pacjentów. Funkcjonalny wynik jest w dużej mierze uzależniony od lokalizacji malformacji, przy czym zmiany w pniu mózgu i zwojach podstawy mają gorsze rokowanie.3132

Wpływ na jakość życia

Malformacje jamiste mogą znacząco wpływać na jakość życia pacjentów. Poza bezpośrednimi objawami neurologicznymi, choroba może powodować:3334

  • Przewlekłe zmęczenie – często występujące miesiące do lat po poważnym krwawieniu lub operacji neurochirurgicznej
  • Problemy emocjonalne – uczucie smutku, lęku lub depresji związane z życiem z przewlekłą chorobą
  • Ograniczenia w codziennych aktywnościach – szczególnie po interwencji chirurgicznej lub w okresie rehabilitacji
  • Niepewność co do przyszłości – związana z nieprzewidywalnym charakterem choroby

Pacjenci z malformacjami jamistymi wymagają regularnego monitorowania, zazwyczaj za pomocą badań MRI, aby śledzić ewentualne zmiany w wielkości i liczbie malformacji. Jest to szczególnie istotne, ponieważ malformacje mogą powiększać się i kurczyć w czasie, co wymaga odpowiedniego dostosowania leczenia.231

Szczególne przypadki progresji

Niektóre szczególne przypadki progresji malformacji jamistych zasługują na uwagę:3536

  • U niemowląt i małych dzieci – pierwsze objawy mogą obejmować nietypową drażliwość, problemy ze snem, zaburzenia oczu (nierówne źrenice, oczopląs, zez), utratę wcześniej nabytych umiejętności (takich jak przewracanie się, podnoszenie głowy, raczkowanie)
  • U starszych dzieci – mogą wystąpić napady padaczkowe niezwiązane z gorączką lub zaostrzenie już istniejących napadów, które nie można przypisać wyrastaniu z dawek leków
  • Podczas ciąży – malformacje jamiste często nie wpływają negatywnie na przebieg ciąży i porodu, ale komplikacje są możliwe i wymagają nadzoru zespołu lekarzy

U dzieci z wrodzonymi malformacjami jamistymi, które nie powodują objawów, rokowanie jest zazwyczaj dobre, a większość z nich prowadzi normalne życie.3730

Monitorowanie i leczenie malformacji jamistych

Podejście do leczenia malformacji jamistych zależy od obecności objawów, lokalizacji malformacji oraz jej tendencji do krwawienia.3839

Monitorowanie bezobjawowych przypadków

Jeśli malformacja jamista nie powoduje objawów i nie wydaje się szybko rosnąć, zazwyczaj prowadzi się regularne monitorowanie za pomocą badań MRI wykonywanych co 1-2 lata. Takie postępowanie pozwala na wczesne wykrycie zmian w wielkości lub charakterze malformacji.3831

Leczenie objawów

W przypadku objawowych malformacji jamistych, leczenie może obejmować:124038

  • Leki przeciwdrgawkowe – w przypadku napadów padaczkowych
  • Leki przeciwbólowe – na bóle głowy i inne dolegliwości bólowe
  • Leczenie chirurgiczne – rozważane, gdy:
    • napady nie mogą być kontrolowane farmakologicznie
    • malformacja znajduje się w łatwo dostępnym obszarze mózgu o niskim ryzyku
    • pacjent doświadczył objawowego krwawienia
    • występują postępujące deficyty neurologiczne

Należy zauważyć, że całkowite usunięcie malformacji jest konieczne podczas operacji, ponieważ pozostawienie jakiejkolwiek części może prowadzić do ponownego wzrostu.3941

Warto podkreślić, że leczenie chirurgiczne może czasami prowadzić do zaostrzenia deficytów neurologicznych, szczególnie w przypadku malformacji w wrażliwych obszarach mózgu. Decyzja o operacji musi być starannie rozważona, biorąc pod uwagę potencjalne korzyści i ryzyko.4042

Rehabilitacja i wsparcie

Po leczeniu, szczególnie chirurgicznym, pacjenci mogą wymagać rehabilitacji w celu odzyskania funkcji neurologicznych. Wsparcie psychologiczne również odgrywa ważną rolę w radzeniu sobie z emocjonalnymi aspektami życia z przewlekłą chorobą.2332

Pacjenci z malformacjami jamistymi powinni również być świadomi objawów ostrzegawczych, które mogą wskazywać na nowe krwawienie i wymagają natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej. Do takich objawów należy nagły, silny ból głowy, wymioty, drętwienie, osłabienie fizyczne lub napady padaczkowe.4344

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  1. 18.04.2026
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Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Cavernous malformations – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavernous-malformations/symptoms-causes/syc-20360941
    A cerebral cavernous malformation is an irregularly formed blood vessel, shaped like a small mulberry. It can form in the brain or spinal cord and may result in a wide range of neurological symptoms. […] CCMs may leak blood and lead to bleeding in the brain or spinal cord, known as a hemorrhage. Brain hemorrhages can cause many symptoms, such as seizures. […] Depending on the location, CCMs also can cause stroke-like symptoms such as trouble with movement or feeling in the legs and sometimes the arms. CCMs also may cause bowel and bladder symptoms. […] Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) may not cause symptoms. Sometimes when the CCM occurs on the outer surface of the brain, it can cause seizures. […] Generally, symptoms of CCMs may include: Seizures. Bad headaches. Weakness in the arms or legs. Numbness. Trouble speaking. Poor memory and attention. Trouble balancing and walking. Vision changes, such as double vision.
  • #2 Cavernomas – Symptoms & Treatment | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/locations/cerebrovascular-center/conditions/vascular-malformations/cavernomas
    Cavernomas are abnormal clusters of vessels with small bubbles (or caverns) filled with blood that make them look like a berry. These can range in size from microscopic up to several inches in diameter. […] While a cavernous angioma may not affect function, it can cause seizures, stroke symptoms, hemorrhages, and headaches. […] We usually only diagnose a cavernoma after you have had a seizure, a loss of function, or a surprise finding when we perform a magnetic resonance imaging scan for another reason. Cavernomas may have no symptoms but about one in three people with cavernous angiomas eventually develop symptoms, often between ages 20 and 40. […] The type, frequency and severity of symptoms often depend on the location of the cavernoma. Typical symptoms include: Headache, Epileptic seizure, Neurological loss, such as Limb weakness, Vision or balance problems, Problems with memory and attention, Brain Hemorrhage, which can be small, but sometimes massive, leading to stroke-like symptoms, Spinal cord injury.
  • #2 Cerebral Cavernous Malformations | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
    https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/cerebral-cavernous-malformations
    Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are lesions in the brain that can leak blood into the brain and cause symptoms like seizures, headaches, or back pain. Some people with CCMs never have symptoms. Having more, larger CCMs means the person usually will have more symptoms. […] CCMs can leak blood into the brain, which can cause symptoms including: Seizures, Headaches, Back pain, Hearing or vision changes, Paralysis. […] Seizures tend to get worse and happen more often as people with CCMs get older. In rare cases, CCMs bleed into the brain (called a hemorrhage) and cause a stroke that can lead to death. […] Because CCMs can change in size and number over time, people with this disorder usually need lifelong monitoring. Doctors can track CCMs and identify changes over time with regular MRIs.
  • #3 Cavernous Malformation | Barrow Neurological InstituteSecond Opinion IconGroup 49
    https://www.barrowneuro.org/condition/cavernous-malformation/
    When a cavernous malformation leaks, bleeding can be slow and intermittent or rapid, causing sudden symptom onset. Most people who develop neurological deficits after a hemorrhage improve dramatically over time. However, repeated hemorrhages may result in permanent neurological problems. […] Symptoms of a cavernous malformation may include: Seizures, Headaches, Bleeding in the brain (hemorrhage), Hearing or vision changes, Weakness, numbness, or paralysis, Memory deficits, Speech impairment, Unsteadiness. […] These lesions usually are not life-threatening, but repeated bleeds may cause permanent neurological deficits. Malformations in sensitive tissue like the brainstem and thalamus can be extremely disabling if they bleed.
  • #3 Cavernomas – Symptoms & Treatment | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/locations/cerebrovascular-center/conditions/vascular-malformations/cavernomas
    Cavernomas are abnormal clusters of vessels with small bubbles (or caverns) filled with blood that make them look like a berry. These can range in size from microscopic up to several inches in diameter. […] While a cavernous angioma may not affect function, it can cause seizures, stroke symptoms, hemorrhages, and headaches. […] We usually only diagnose a cavernoma after you have had a seizure, a loss of function, or a surprise finding when we perform a magnetic resonance imaging scan for another reason. Cavernomas may have no symptoms but about one in three people with cavernous angiomas eventually develop symptoms, often between ages 20 and 40. […] The type, frequency and severity of symptoms often depend on the location of the cavernoma. Typical symptoms include: Headache, Epileptic seizure, Neurological loss, such as Limb weakness, Vision or balance problems, Problems with memory and attention, Brain Hemorrhage, which can be small, but sometimes massive, leading to stroke-like symptoms, Spinal cord injury.
  • #4 Cerebral Cavernous Malformations – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538144/
    While the clinical presentation of symptomatic CCMs varies by location, the most common clinical manifestations are seizures (50%), intracranial hemorrhage (25%), and focal neurological deficits without radiographic evidence of recent hemorrhage (25%). […] Between 6% and 65% of patients are asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally on brain MRI. […] The overall annualized hemorrhage rate in untreated CCM is estimated at 2.4%, with a predicted cumulative 5-year risk of hemorrhage of 15.8% from the time of diagnosis. […] For patients with incidentally detected CCM, the risk of hemorrhage is substantially lower, estimated to be 0.33% per year. […] Patients who have a documented history of CCM hemorrhage are at significantly greater risk of repeat hemorrhage (23% 5-year rate). […] Several factors have been associated with CCM rupture, including lesion location, size, multiplicity, and an associated developmental venous anomaly.
  • #5 Cavernous malformations – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavernous-malformations/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360942
    Often people with cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) don’t have any symptoms. A CCM may be found as a result of brain imaging for another condition. Sometimes specific symptoms may prompt your healthcare professional to do more testing. […] The outlook of cerebral cavernous malformations depends on many factors, including their size, growth and whether they cause symptoms. Some CCMs don’t cause any symptoms at all, while others can cause serious bleeding in the brain.
  • #6 Cavernous Hemangiomas: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Outlook
    https://www.healthline.com/health/cavernous-hemangioma
    Cavernous malformations can change in size and number over time and can range from several millimeters to several centimeters in size. […] As many as 40% of people with cavernous malformations in their brains never experience symptoms or receive a diagnosis. Most people in this group have: a single malformation, no family history, no inherited mutation. […] Symptoms vary depending on where the malformation forms. […] Seizures are one of the most common symptoms of cavernous malformations in the brain. Other symptoms can include: headaches, bleeding (hemorrhage), hemorrhagic stroke, slurred speech, double vision, balance problems, tremor, memory problems, poor concentration, limb weakness or numbness. […] A cavernous malformation of the spinal cord can cause limb: numbness, weakness, paralysis, tingling, burning, itching. It can also cause loss of bladder control or bowel control.
  • #7 Cavernous Malformations | Neurological Surgery
    https://neurosurgery.weillcornell.org/condition/cavernous-malformations
    Cavernous malformation The tangle of capillaries in a cavernous malformation may leak and create small caverns of blood within the brain. […] A cav-mal may remain stable for decades and never cause any symptoms at all. Some people only discover that they have a cavernous malformation when they have an MRI scan for some other reason, such as after a car accident or other injury (an incidental finding). In those individuals, no treatment at all may be needed. […] But a cavernous malformation may begin to leak (hemorrhage) intermittently over the course of months or years. In some people, the cav-mal causes symptoms that get worse with each small hemorrhage, then gradually get better as the leaked blood is reabsorbed, only to worsen again with the next hemorrhage. The malformation usually grows slowly over time, enlarging with each small hemorrhage.
  • #8 Cavernous Malformation – 20 Questions Answered
    https://www.alliancetocure.org/home/for-patients/newly-diagnosed/20-questions-answered-cavernous-malformation-angioma-cavernoma/
    There is no typical way in which cavernous malformations (also known as cavernous angioma or cavernoma) affect people. The symptoms, the course of the illness, and its severity can be very different from person to person. […] The rarest place for a symptomatic cavernous malformation is in the spinal cord. A spinal cord cavernous malformation is not the same as a spinal hemangioma, which is located in the vertebra (bone). Cavernous malformations may also occur in the area of the brain called the brainstem. Spinal cord and brainstem cavernous malformations can cause more severe symptoms when they hemorrhage. […] Seizures are one of the most common symptoms of cavernous malformation (cavernous angioma, cavernoma). Seizures fall into two general groups: focal seizures that are local to one area of the brain and generalized seizures that involve both sides of the brain. All cavernous malformation seizures begin as focal seizures but some progress to generalized seizures. Neurologists use anti-epilepsy medications to control seizures. However, neurosurgeons have had good results in eliminating seizures with brain surgery if they are able to pinpoint which cavernous malformation is causing the seizures. Surgery is most successful when it occurs within two years of a first seizure. Brainstem and spinal cavernous malformations do not cause seizures.
  • #9 Cerebral Cavernous Malformations – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538144/
    While the clinical presentation of symptomatic CCMs varies by location, the most common clinical manifestations are seizures (50%), intracranial hemorrhage (25%), and focal neurological deficits without radiographic evidence of recent hemorrhage (25%). […] Between 6% and 65% of patients are asymptomatic and diagnosed incidentally on brain MRI. […] The overall annualized hemorrhage rate in untreated CCM is estimated at 2.4%, with a predicted cumulative 5-year risk of hemorrhage of 15.8% from the time of diagnosis. […] For patients with incidentally detected CCM, the risk of hemorrhage is substantially lower, estimated to be 0.33% per year. […] Patients who have a documented history of CCM hemorrhage are at significantly greater risk of repeat hemorrhage (23% 5-year rate). […] Several factors have been associated with CCM rupture, including lesion location, size, multiplicity, and an associated developmental venous anomaly.
  • #10 Cavernous Malformation – 20 Questions Answered
    https://www.alliancetocure.org/home/for-patients/newly-diagnosed/20-questions-answered-cavernous-malformation-angioma-cavernoma/
    We know people with cavernous malformation experience more frequent headaches than other people. A headache does not necessarily mean a new hemorrhage. For the most part, we can’t distinguish a cavernous malformation headache from any other kind of headache. A headache unlike one you have ever experienced or headaches, particularly on the same side or general location as your lesion, may be related to your lesion. A headache may be related to your cavernous malformation if it is unlike one you have ever experienced or if it is in the general location of your lesion. […] The symptoms of a cavernous malformation hemorrhage depend on its location and size. Cavernous malformations can cause attention, memory, social skills, mood, and learning problems, particularly if the lesions are in the frontal, parietal, or temporal lobes, or in the cerebellum, even without obvious bleeding. This is particularly true for individuals with many lesions throughout the brain.
  • #11 Delving Into Cavernous Malformations – Pacific Neuroscience Institute
    https://www.pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/blog/neurovascular-malformations/delving-into-cavernous-malformations/
    Cavernous malformations form in clusters that resemble small mulberries and often are characterized by: […] Slow blood flow: This can lead to small, repeated hemorrhages, potentially causing progressive symptoms. […] Varied symptoms: Some patients may experience no symptoms, while others may have severe, life-altering issues. […] Symptoms of cavernous malformations can vary widely depending on their location, size, and whether they bleed (hemorrhage). Some individuals remain asymptomatic, while others may experience severe neurological deficits. Common symptoms include: […] Headaches: Recurrent and sometimes severe headaches are a frequent symptom, particularly if the malformation is in the brain. […] Seizures: These are common, especially if the cavernoma is located in the cerebral cortex.
  • #12 Cavernous Malformations – AANS
    http://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/cavernous-malformations/
    Cavernous malformations are clusters of abnormal, tiny blood vessels and larger, stretched-out, thin-walled blood vessels filled with blood and located in the brain. […] A person with a cavernous malformation may experience no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they often are related to the location of the malformation and the strength of the malformation walls. […] Symptoms may appear and subside as the cavernous malformation changes in size due to bleeding and reabsorption of blood. Any of the following symptoms may occur: Seizures, Weakness in arms or legs, Vision problems, Balance problems, Memory and attention problems, Headaches. […] Surgery should be considered for seizure control if: 1.) Seizures cannot be controlled through medication; 2.) The cavernous malformation is in a low risk, easily accessible area of the brain; and 3.) It has been determined that the lesion is causing the seizures.
  • #13 Cavernous Malformation – 20 Questions Answered
    https://www.alliancetocure.org/home/for-patients/newly-diagnosed/20-questions-answered-cavernous-malformation-angioma-cavernoma/
    Cavernous malformations in many parts of the brain and spinal cord can cause weakness or numbness in the arms or legs. In some areas, such as the thalamus, they can also cause pain. A cavernous malformation in the brainstem can cause coordination problems called ataxia or can cause facial paralysis, usually on one side. […] Cavernous malformations can cause vision problems. There are two kinds of vision problems: those caused by lesions in the occipital lobe of the brain, which affect how visual information is processed, and those caused by lesions in the brainstem, which affect how the eyes work. […] A cavernous malformation can cause hearing problems, including loss of hearing and tinnitus, dizziness, or nausea, particularly if it is located in or near the cerebellum. […] A cavernous malformation hemorrhage in the brain can cause fatigue. Individuals may complain of fatigue for months to years after a major hemorrhage or brain surgery. […] Spinal cord cavernous malformations can cause numbness, weakness, paralysis, tingling, burning, or itching. The location and extent of the symptom depend on the level of the spine affected. Spinal cord lesions can also cause difficulty with bladder and bowel control.
  • #14 Symptoms of a Cavernous Malformation | Neurological Surgery
    https://neurosurgery.weillcornell.org/condition/cavernous-malformations/symptoms-cavernous-malformation
    Many people with a cerebral cavernous malformation will never experience any symptoms. In others, a cav-mal may cause: Headache, Weakness, Numbness, Difficulty speaking, Unsteadiness or loss of balance, Hearing or vision changes, Seizures, Paralysis, Cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain). […] In some people, symptoms seem to come and go, lessening for a while and then coming back again. This may mean that the cav-mal has caused a small hemorrhage, which worsens the symptoms; as the leaked blood is reabsorbed into the brain the patient feels better, only to experience symptoms again with the next small incident of blood leakage.
  • #15 Reddit – The heart of the internet
    https://www.reddit.com/r/Cavernoma/comments/19963hx/where_are_your_cavernomas_and_what_are_your/
    I have one in the brain stem and one in the anterior right temporal lobe. The one in my temporal lobe looks like it’s bled in the past according to my neurosurgeon but I don’t know when. […] The one in my brain stem has bled a few times. The first major bleed that I know of was back in July when I was hospitalized for a stroke. […] When it is actively bleeding, my blood pressure gets really high and I feel like I’m drunk, then I start losing speech ability – my words come out slurred and it takes me a very long time to form my words, and I get disoriented/confused. […] The lasting effects have been neuralgia of the face and scalp, extreme fatigue, difficulty finding words sometimes, and memory impairment. […] I also have some vision issues at times, and I feel a lot of pressure in and behind my eyes.
  • #16 Cavernous Malformations | Conditions | UCSF Health
    https://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/cavernous-malformations
    Cavernous malformations can cause seizures, stroke symptoms, hemorrhages and headaches. […] Some people roughly 15 percent with cavernous malformations may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may suffer from a variety of effects. Symptoms typically depend on the location of the malformation and may include: Seizures ranging in severity, duration and intensity, Neurological deficits, such as weakness in arms and legs as well as problems with vision, balance, memory and attention, Headaches ranging in severity, duration and intensity, Bleeding, called a hemorrhage, in the brain that may damage surrounding brain tissue. […] It is impossible to predict what will happen with any cavernous malformation. Some will cause repeated hemorrhages with worsening symptoms such as headaches, seizures, difficulty speaking, vision problems or weakness in the arms or legs, while others remain inactive and do not cause symptoms for many years.
  • #17 Delving Into Cavernous Malformations – Pacific Neuroscience Institute
    https://www.pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/blog/neurovascular-malformations/delving-into-cavernous-malformations/
    Neurological Deficits: Depending on the lesions location, symptoms can include weakness, numbness, difficulty with coordination and balance, vision problems, and speech difficulties. […] Hemorrhage: Bleeding can cause sudden and severe symptoms, including acute headache, nausea, vomiting, and neurological deterioration. […] Cavernous malformations can have several long-term effects, depending on their location, size, and whether they cause symptoms. These malformations may lead to recurrent headaches, seizures, or neurological deficits such as weakness, vision problems, or difficulty with coordination. Some cavernous malformations bleed intermittently, which can result in progressive neurological deterioration over time. […] In some cases, these malformations remain stable and asymptomatic, but others may worsen, leading to a gradual decline in function.
  • #18 Cavernoma
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cavernoma/
    A cavernoma often does not cause symptoms, but when symptoms do occur they can include: […] The severity and duration of symptoms can vary depending on the size, location and number of cavernomas. […] Problems can occur if the cavernoma bleeds or presses on certain areas of the brain. […] In most cases, bleeding is small usually around half a teaspoonful of blood and may not cause other symptoms. […] But severe haemorrhages can be life threatening and may lead to long-lasting problems. […] Any symptoms you have may come and go as the cavernoma bleeds and then reabsorbs blood. […] It’s important to closely monitor your symptoms, as any new symptoms might be a sign of a haemorrhage. […] The risk of having a haemorrhage varies from person to person, depending on whether you have experienced any bleeding before. […] If your cavernoma has bled previously, your risk of having another haemorrhage is somewhere between 4% and 25% each year. […] But this risk decreases progressively over time if you do not experience any further bleeds.
  • #19 Cavernoma Symptoms & Treatments | Pacific Stroke & Neurovascular Center
    https://www.pacificneuroscienceinstitute.org/stroke-neurovascular/conditions-and-treatments/brain-vascular-malformation/cavernoma/
    Cavernomas are dynamic structures, changing in size and number over time and can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. […] Leakage and bleeding from cavernomas is the underlying cause of clinical symptoms. Depending on the size and location of the cavernoma, this bleeding can cause brain damage and even in rare cases death, however, bleeding from cavernomas is often less severe than bleeding from aneurysms or AVMs because they do not contain high-pressure arterial blood flow. Symptoms of a ruptured cavernoma often come on suddenly and include a sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, fainting or loss of consciousness and seizures.
  • #20 Lyerly | Neurosurgery | Cerebral Cavernous Malformation
    https://www.baptistjax.com/doctors/lyerly-neurosurgery/stroke-and-cerebrovascular-care/understanding-cerebral-cavernous-malformation
    If blood has begun leaking into your brain, it may cause the following sudden symptoms: severe headache, difficulty speaking, weakness in an arm or leg, unsteadiness and difficulty walking, partial or complete vision loss, nausea or vomiting, seizures. […] Generally speaking, any bleeding in the brain can be a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical evaluation and treatment.
  • #21 Cavernous Malformation | Lurie Children’s
    https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/specialties-conditions/cavernoma/
    Cavernomas are diagnosed most often when they become symptomatic and can be detected by: […] It is thought that more than 30% of people with cavernomas eventually develop symptoms. […] Symptoms can vary widely and sometimes come and go, but they may include the following: […] The risk of hemorrhage is related to the location and number of cavernomas that are present. The higher the number, the greater the chance of one or more hemorrhages occurring sometime over a lifetime. On average, cavernous angiomas that have bled in the past are those that are the most likely to bleed again, particularly in the first two years after their initial bleed. It is also important to note that a hemorrhage in a cavernoma in the brain stem can be life-threatening, as the brainstem is responsible for regulating critical life processes including breathing and heartbeat.
  • #22 Cavernous malformations | Beacon Health System
    https://www.beaconhealthsystem.org/library/diseases-and-conditions/cavernous-malformations?content_id=CON-20309676
    And CCMs found in other areas can have a variety of symptoms. These include CCMs in the spinal cord, the brainstem linking the spinal cord and brain, and the basal ganglia in the inner brain. For example, bleeding in the spinal cord may cause bowel and bladder symptoms or trouble with movement or feeling in the legs or arms.
  • #23 Cavernous Malformation Surgery Recovery: What to Expect
    https://www.neurosurgeonsofnewjersey.com/blog/cavernous-malformation-surgery-recovery/
    When a malformation is located on the brainstem, the risk of long-term problems with speech, memory and motor functions rises, but surgery can reduce symptoms and eliminate the risk of new problems in the future. […] You can expect to feel fatigued and disoriented, and you may experience some neurological deficits. These can vary depending on the location of your surgery. […] Depending on your progress, you may still feel tired, and you may need to continue rehabilitation for lingering neurological problems. […] You may still feel fatigued, and its not uncommon to feel frustrated and depressed. […] Cavernous malformation surgery can completely resolve these clusters of abnormal blood vessels in the brain, but recovery takes time.
  • #24 Cavernous Malformations | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/cavernous-malformations
    Symptoms occur when the cavernous malformation bleeds. […] Symptoms can vary depending on where the cavernous malformation is located, but may include: Weakness in the arms or legs, Seizures, Headaches, Dizziness, Irritability, Changes in personality. […] These symptoms may appear and then go away as the malformation bleeds and then reabsorbs blood.
  • #25 Cavernous Malformations | Neurological Surgery
    https://neurosurgery.weillcornell.org/condition/cavernous-malformations
    In other cases, a cerebral cavernous malformation may cause substantial bleeding in a single episode, with significant hemorrhage leading to severe neurological deficits or even death. If the cav-mal is located in the surface layer of the brain (the cerebral cortex), it may also cause seizures. […] The prognosis for a cav-mal is different for each individual, based on the size and location of the malformation and on its tendency to hemorrhage or not.
  • #26 Cavernous Malformation – Goodman CampbellHamburger MenuSearch IconSearch IconX IconFacebook IconInstagram IconYoutube IconLinkedIn Icon
    https://www.goodmancampbell.com/conditions/brain/neurovascular/cavernous-malformation/
    When a CM comes to attention clinically, it is most often due to a seizure, hemorrhage or new neurological problem. The specific symptoms are often related to its location. […] Hemorrhage from a CM is not typically life-threatening. The risk for hemorrhage from a CM discovered by chance is very low—just a fraction of a percent yearly. However, the risk for hemorrhage in the inherited form is higher, due to the increased number of cavernomas.
  • #27 Cavernous Malformation Surgery: Patient Guide
    https://www.neurosurgeonsofnewjersey.com/blog/cavernous-malformation-surgery-guide/
    Cavernous malformations, also called cavernomas or cavernous hemangiomas, are clusters of abnormal blood vessels that can occur in the brain or the spine. These clusters can alter blood flow, swell or leak, causing a variety of symptoms such as headaches, seizures and problems with coordination and speech. […] Most are not diagnosed until symptoms such as headaches and seizures appear. […] Depending on its location, it can trigger seizures, headaches or neurological and cognitive problems such as impaired coordination, numbness and weakness, and difficulties with memory and speech. Malformations can also enlarge and burst, causing a medical emergency. […] At least 30 percent of people with this condition develop symptoms, usually in their 20s and 30s the most common age group for diagnosis.
  • #28 Fast Facts – Cavernoma Alliance UK (CAUK)
    https://cavernoma.org.uk/facts/
    Cavernoma can become symptomatic at any age, most commonly when a person is between the ages of 20-40. Again, research figures vary but it is thought that only about 160 people in the UK are diagnosed with symptomatic cavernoma each year. […] The most common first symptom is seizure (50%), followed by hemorrhage (25%) and neurological deficits (25%) like blurred vision and weakness in limbs. […] Cavernoma can grow and hemorrhage (bleed) at any age, including in young children, when the symptoms normally become more severe.
  • #29 Cavernous Malformations
    https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/neurosciences/cavernous-malformations
    Cavernous malformations can happen anywhere in the body. They most commonly cause symptoms when they are found in the brain and spinal cord. […] Common symptoms include headaches or seizures. Having symptoms depends on where the lesions grow and how many are present. […] Most people who have symptoms are between 20 and 50 years old. Sometimes children have symptoms. […] These are physical symptoms: Headaches, Seizures, Changes in hearing or vision, Weakness, Balance problems, Paralysis, Trouble thinking clearly or with remembering things. […] Many people only find out they have a cavernous malformation when it bleeds. This causes stroke in some people. If you notice symptoms, such as seizure, severe headache, numbness, vomiting associated with headache, or physical weakness, go immediately to the emergency room or call 911 to get help.
  • #30 Cerebral Cavernous Malformation | Birth Injury Center
    https://birthinjurycenter.org/cerebral-cavernous-malformation/
    However, others do experience symptoms, which may range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms of cerebral cavernous malformation include: Seizures, Hemorrhage (bleeding into the brain or spinal cord), Headaches, Neurological deficits. […] Bleeding from a cerebral cavernous malformation can cause serious neurological complications. In severe cases, it can result in brain damage, stroke, and death. In infants and young children, it can be difficult to differentiate symptoms of cerebral cavernous malformation from other developmental issues. […] If your child is asymptomatic, treatment for a cerebral cavernous malformation is generally unnecessary. Your child’s doctor will perform regular MRIs to determine whether the lesion is growing. As long as the cavernoma remains uncomplicated, the risks of treatment will generally outweigh the benefits.
  • #31 Orphanet: Familial cerebral cavernous malformation
    https://www.orpha.net/en/disease/detail/221061
    A rare, capillary-venous malformations characterized by closely clustered irregular dilated capillaries that can be asymptomatic or that can cause variable neurological manifestations such as seizures, non-specific headaches, progressive or transient focal neurologic deficits, and/or cerebral hemorrhages. […] Close to 60% of FCCM patients are symptomatic. FCCM usually manifests between 20 to 30 years of age, but clinical manifestations can occur at any age. Symptoms include seizures (40-70%), non-specific headaches (10-30%), progressive or transient focal neurologic deficits (35-50%), and/or cerebral hemorrhages (41%). […] Regular check-ups, generally with an MRI once a year, are recommended after the discovery of a CCM, as additional asymptomatic lesions may appear with time. […] FCCM is an evolving condition with a strong correlation between the patient’s age and the number of CCM lesions. The hemorrhagic event rate is estimated at 2-5% per lesion per year. Functional outcome is mostly conditioned by the location of CCM lesions, with brainstem and basal ganglia lesions having a worse prognosis. Available data suggest that in most patients the long-term prognosis is quite favorable with a preserved autonomy in 80% of cases.
  • #32 Living With Cavernous Malformation | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/cavernous-malformation/survival/living-with-cavernous-malformation
    Factors such as age, medical history and cavernoma progression may all influence the prognosis. Treatments and management options are tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances and include medication, surgery and lifestyle changes to minimize the risk of severe symptoms. Regular inspections through imaging studies like MRI are often recommended to monitor any changes in the size or location of cavernomas. […] The prognosis for individuals with cavernous malformations is primarily favorable, especially when closely monitored and managed by qualified healthcare professionals. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team and follow any recommended treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcome. […] Ultimately, living with a cavernous malformation can be challenging, but it is possible to find ways to manage the symptoms and maintain a good quality of life.
  • #33 Living With Cavernous Malformation | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/cavernous-malformation/survival/living-with-cavernous-malformation
    A cavernous malformation is a rare condition that can have a significant impact on your life. It is a cluster of abnormal, thin-walled blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord. This vascular disorder can cause neurological symptoms, but its exact cause is not entirely understood. However, it is believed to arise due to genetic mutations or sporadic development. In some cases, individuals with a family history of the condition may carry a mutated gene that can increase their likelihood of developing a cavernoma. Living with a cavernous malformation is challenging, both physically and emotionally, but it is possible to manage its symptoms and maintain a good quality of life with the right support and care. […] Physically, the symptoms of cavernous malformation vary depending on the location and size of the malformation. Some people may experience no symptoms at all, whereas others may experience headaches, seizures, weakness or numbness in the limbs, difficulty speaking or understanding language, or vision changes. These symptoms can be frustrating and can make it difficult to carry out your daily activities.
  • #34 Living With Cavernous Malformation | Aaron Cohen-Gadol, MD
    https://www.aaroncohen-gadol.com/en/patients/cavernous-malformation/survival/living-with-cavernous-malformation
    However, managing the emotional impact of cavernous malformation is just as important as managing the physical symptoms. Living with a chronic condition can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression. It is important to seek out support from family, friends, or a mental health professional to help cope with these feelings. […] It is important to understand that cavernous malformations enlarge and at times shrink. So, you will need to be prepared for the ups and downs of managing this chronic condition. […] The prognosis for those living with cavernous malformation, also known as cavernomas, varies depending on the size, location and growth rate of the cavernoma. In many cases, cavernomas remain stable, causing little to no disruption to the individual’s daily life. However, some people may continue to experience symptoms like seizures or headaches that may require medical intervention or even surgical removal of the malformation.
  • #35 Cavernous Malformations And Children – Alliance to Cure Cavernous Malformation
    https://www.alliancetocure.org/home/cavernous-angioma-in-depth/pediatric-ccm/cavernous-angioma-and-children/
    Your baby starts to demonstrate unusual irritability and a new onset sleep problem without fever, this may be the first sign. […] Signs to watch include: Your baby loses a function that she could once perform such as rolling over, holding up her head, crawling, or babbling. […] Changes in your babies’ eyes: keeping tabs on your baby’s eyes is important – look for a pupil that is suddenly larger in one eye than the other (unequal pupils), eyes “jumping” left to right or up and down when the baby is trying to look straight ahead (nystagmus), or both eyes no longer looking in the same direction (strabismus). […] A first tonic-clonic seizure not related to fever. […] If your baby experiences projectile vomiting, particularly along with any of the other signs, it is important to call the neurosurgeon.
  • #36 Cavernous Malformations And Children – Alliance to Cure Cavernous Malformation
    https://www.alliancetocure.org/home/cavernous-angioma-in-depth/pediatric-ccm/cavernous-angioma-and-children/
    If your child has previously not experienced seizure may have a seizure or those with seizure disorders may experience a worsening that can’t be attributed to outgrowing medication doses. […] Many people who have cavernous malformation hemorrhages experience vision problems or dizziness as an initial symptom. […] Your child may exhibit new and unusual irritability, similar to what you might notice when they are becoming ill with influenza or other more serious contagious illness. […] A child may be able to communicate to you that they are experiencing tingling or numbness in a part of their body, most often in arms or legs. […] If your child has just one cavernous malformation, a neurologist or neurosurgeon should be able to tell you the specific symptoms one might expect with a hemorrhage in the specific area of the brain.
  • #37 Cavernous Malformations | Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/c/cavernous-malformation
    Cavernous malformations are also known as cavernous angiomas, cavernous hemangiomas, cerebral cavernous malformations or cavernomas. […] Some cavernous malformations cause no symptoms, but larger cavernomas may cause headaches, seizures, and impaired speech or vision. […] Symptoms arise when the cavernoma either presses on another area of the brain or begins to bleed. […] Symptoms may include one or more of the following: Headaches, Seizures, Trouble speaking, Vision changes, Balance problems, Weakness or numbness in arms or legs, Gradual or sudden changes in personality. […] Most cases of cavernoma bleeding involve very small amounts of blood that may not cause any symptoms. […] If there is a larger amount of bleeding, symptoms will develop more quickly. This potentially life-threatening situation requires immediate treatment. […] Long-term outlook is good for most children with one or more cavernous malformations. They typically go on to live normal lives.
  • #38 Cavernous Malformations | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/cavernous-malformations.html
    If the malformation isn’t causing symptoms and doesn’t appear to be growing rapidly, all that may be needed to regular monitoring. This is done by having MRI scans or CT scans every couple of years. […] Anti-seizure medications may be necessary in patients who present with seizures. […] The bleeding can cause symptoms similar to a stroke. The bleeding also tends to build a shell of blood products around the cavernous malformation. This irritates the tissues of the brain and may cause seizures. […] The mass presses on parts of the brain responsible for movement, vision, speech or sensation. As a result a person may have weakness, numbness, vision problems, speech problems, difficulty moving the eyes, difficulty swallowing and coordination and balance problems. […] A cavernous malformation that is stable and not bleeding may cause no symptoms. All that may be needed is regular observation.
  • #39 Cavernous Malformations | Cedars-Sinai
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/cavernous-malformations.html
    If the cavernous malformation is causing symptoms or is growing, doing surgery to remove the malformation may be recommended. […] The entire cavernous malformation must be removed. If any part is left behind, it may start growing again. […] A malformation that has had bleeding is more likely to bleed again. If the malformation is growing at a fairly rapid rate, it may be necessary to remove it.
  • #40 Cavernous Malformations – AANS
    http://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/cavernous-malformations/
    Surgery may be indicated in patients who have experienced one neurologically symptomatic hemorrhage from a lesion in a low risk, easily accessible area. […] Surgical removal should be considered in patients with progressive neurological deficits, but such neurological deficits can worsen after surgery.
  • #41 Cavernous Malformations | Baylor Medicine
    https://www.bcm.edu/healthcare/specialties/neurosurgery/cerebrovascular-and-stroke-surgery/cavernous-malformations
    Treatment may be needed if the lesion grows or causes new symptoms. […] Direct removal of the cavernous malformation with surgery is the only known cure. Surgery is often recommended for cavernous malformations that are causing symptoms, grow on repeat imaging, bleed and are easily accessible by traditional neurosurgical methods with low risk of harming the surrounding brain.
  • #42 Cavernous Malformation Surgery: Patient Guide
    https://www.neurosurgeonsofnewjersey.com/blog/cavernous-malformation-surgery-guide/
    For some people with small cavernomas or those in high-risk areas of the brain, treatment consists of medication to control symptoms such as seizures and headaches, and regular monitoring to track any changes in the malformation. […] But when medication fails to relieve symptoms, or the malformation is located in a readily accessible and low-risk area of the brain, neurosurgeons perform microsurgery to remove the abnormal blood vessels completely. In these situations, cavernous malformation surgery can eliminate symptoms and restore normal functioning. […] During this time, activities like driving, lifting heavy objects or exercising strenuously will be restricted. You may want to enlist the help of a family member or friend for running errands and taking care of household tasks. […] Your doctors will schedule follow-ups to check the healing of your incision, watch for any emerging neurological or cognitive problems, such as weakness in limbs, or difficulties with speech, memory or coordination and will schedule periodic MRI or CT scans. Successful surgery for a cavernous malformation typically resolves the condition and its symptoms completely. […] Treating cavernous malformations depends on factors including your age, overall health, the size and location of the malformation and the nature of your symptoms. Cavernous malformation surgery is a safe microsurgical procedure that can resolve symptoms and restores normal functioning.
  • #43 Cavernous Malformations
    https://healthlibrary.vidanthealth.com/Search/134,71
    Complications include: Stroke (hemorrhage or bleeding type), Seizure, Death. […] Many people only find out they have a cavernous malformation when it bleeds. This causes stroke in some people. If you notice symptoms, such as seizure, severe headache, numbness, vomiting associated with headache, or physical weakness, go immediately to the emergency room or call 911 to get help.
  • #44 Cavernous Malformations | UMass Memorial Health
    https://www.ummhealth.org/health-library/cavernous-malformations
    Common symptoms include headaches or seizures. Having symptoms depends on where the lesions grow and how many are present. […] Symptoms of cavernous malformations depend on the location and size of the malformation. Most people who have symptoms are between 20 and 50 years old. Sometimes children have symptoms. […] These are physical symptoms: Headaches, Seizures, Changes in hearing or vision, Weakness, Balance problems, Paralysis, Trouble thinking clearly or with remembering things. […] Complications include: Stroke (hemorrhage or bleeding type), Seizure, Death. […] Many people only find out they have a cavernous malformation when it bleeds. This causes stroke in some people. If you notice symptoms, such as seizure, severe headache, numbness, vomiting associated with headache, or physical weakness, go immediately to the emergency room or call 911 to get help.