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Arteriovenous Malformation
An abnormal tangle of blood vessels.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific condition and treatment.
When to seek help
Seek medical help right away if you have severe, sudden, or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing, chest pain, or any symptom that feels life-threatening. This community is for peer support and education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency services immediately.
Overview
What are arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)? Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are defects in your vascular system. Your vascular system is your body's network of blood vessels. It includes your: Arteries, which carry oxygen-rich blood from your heart to your tissues and organs. Veins, which carry the blood and waste products back to your heart. Capillaries, which are tiny blood vessels that connect your small arteries to your small veins. An AVM is an abnormal tangle of arteries and veins. They are connected to each other, with no capillaries between them. Without the capillaries, the blood flow from the arteries goes directly into the veins at a faster rate than normal. Because of this,…
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Posts in this community reflect personal experiences, not medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before changing your treatment.