Managing Post-AVM Surgery Symptoms: Headaches and Dizziness Solutions

AVM stands for Ar

Hello Doctor: Thirteen years ago, I collapsed and was hospitalized for surgery due to a cerebral arteriovenous malformation.
In the past three to four years, I have frequently experienced dizziness and headaches, and there have been several occasions when I became so faint that I needed to go to the hospital for IV fluids, and even required hospitalization.
Could this be a complication related to my previous surgery for the arteriovenous malformation? I was on antiepileptic medication for about six months, which improved my condition, but I had to stop due to severe allergic reactions (hives).
Recently, I have started feeling unwell again.
What should I do?

Amei Zi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/03/05

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology

Dr.
Huang Ying-Che from Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health replied that if your discomfort in the head is related to epilepsy after a 10-year interval, it can naturally be considered a sequela.
However, to determine if it is indeed related to epilepsy, further examinations are necessary (such as a CT scan, MRI, or EEG).
Please contact the physician who performed your surgery (or the hospital) for further diagnosis.
Tainan Hospital wishes you good health and all the best.

Reply Date: 2004/03/05

More Info

Managing post-operative symptoms such as headaches and dizziness after a brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM) surgery can be challenging and concerning. It’s important to understand that these symptoms can arise due to various factors, including the surgical procedure itself, the underlying condition, and even medication side effects.

First, it’s essential to recognize that headaches and dizziness can be common after brain surgery, particularly in cases involving AVMs. The surgery may have altered the normal blood flow in the brain, leading to changes in intracranial pressure or irritation of surrounding tissues. Additionally, the brain may take time to heal, and during this period, patients can experience a range of symptoms, including headaches and dizziness.

In your case, the fact that you experienced improvement while on antiepileptic medication suggests that your symptoms may have a neurological component, possibly related to seizure activity or post-surgical changes in brain function. However, since you had to discontinue the medication due to an allergic reaction, it’s crucial to explore alternative management strategies.

Here are some recommendations for managing your symptoms:
1. Consult Your Neurologist: It’s vital to have a thorough evaluation by a neurologist who can assess your current symptoms in the context of your medical history. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any complications from the surgery or new developments.

2. Medication Management: Since you had a positive response to antiepileptic medication, discuss with your doctor the possibility of trying a different medication that may not cause allergic reactions. There are various options available, and your doctor can help find one that suits your needs.

3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Dehydration can exacerbate headaches and dizziness. Aim for at least 2 liters of water daily, and consider foods rich in magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, which may help with neurological health.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Engage in gentle physical activity, such as walking or yoga, which can improve circulation and reduce dizziness. However, avoid sudden movements or positions that may trigger your symptoms. Additionally, practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or meditation, can help manage headache triggers.

5. Physical Therapy: If dizziness persists, consider working with a physical therapist who specializes in vestibular rehabilitation. They can provide exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness.

6. Regular Follow-ups: Keep regular appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. This ongoing communication is crucial for managing post-surgical symptoms effectively.

7. Support Groups: Connecting with others who have undergone similar surgeries can provide emotional support and practical advice. Look for local or online support groups for individuals with AVMs or post-brain surgery experiences.

In conclusion, while headaches and dizziness can be distressing, they are not uncommon after AVM surgery. With appropriate medical guidance, lifestyle adjustments, and possibly a new medication regimen, you can work towards alleviating these symptoms. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes for your recovery.

Similar Q&A

Managing Chronic Headaches After AVM Surgery: Expert Insights

I underwent a craniotomy in 2001 for a congenital arteriovenous malformation located near my left temple, close to my left eye. It was pressing against my left eye (approximately 4-5 cm). Prior to the discovery of this condition, I had a habit of experiencing migraines. Even afte...

Dr. Huang Yingzhe reply Neurology
Director Huang Ying-Che of the Neurology Department at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, responded: Hello, A-Mei. Your headache may be related or unrelated to the pre-existing arteriovenous malformation, but a thorough evaluation is necessary. An electroencephalogr...

Post-Surgery Complications of Acoustic Neuroma and AV Malformation Removal

My husband underwent a craniotomy for a left-sided vestibular schwannoma on January 15. During the surgery, the surgeon discovered an arteriovenous malformation beneath the dura mater, which was also removed. The surgery lasted approximately six hours, and the nursing staff infor...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
Because I am unclear about the situation during the surgery, various circumstances can occur during a craniotomy. The fact that eight bags of blood were transfused indicates a significant amount of blood loss, which may have led to ischemia and hypoxia in some brain tissue, poten...

Managing Dizziness and Drowsiness After a Stroke: Key Insights

Hello Doctor: In July, I experienced paralysis and numbness on my left side. After being taken to the hospital, I was diagnosed with acute cerebral embolism located in a small vessel near the right brainstem. I received intravenous thrombolytic therapy on the same day. After six ...

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology
Hello: After a stroke occurs, even with the administration of thrombolytics, the blockage of blood vessels in the brain usually causes some degree of neurological damage, leading to certain sequelae. You may want to discuss this with your attending physician and evaluate whether ...

Understanding Post-Anesthesia Dizziness: Causes and Concerns

Mother underwent general anesthesia for a bladder endoscopy and resection surgery from February 23 to February 25. After the anesthesia, she experienced mild headache for one night, which resolved the next morning upon discharge. However, starting from March 4 (Friday), she began...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Mr. Chen: You mentioned "lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus," which refers to a small infarct in the left lentiform nucleus. This may be related to motor function. However, it is still necessary to assess the relevant neurological functions. Regarding...