Latest news with #NationalInstituteofNeurologicalDisordersandStroke
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Salman Khan reveals struggle with AVM and brain aneurysm on Kapil Sharma Show: Know what AVM is, its causes, and why it's so serious
Salman Khan reveals struggle with AVM and brain aneurysm on Kapil Sharma Show: Know what AVM is, its causes, and why it's so serious When Salman Khan appeared on Netflix's The Great Indian Kapil Show, viewers expected light-hearted banter, career anecdotes, and a touch of nostalgia. What they didn't expect was the Bollywood superstar revealing a list of serious and complex health conditions he quietly battles, while still headlining films and performing high-energy action scenes. At 59, Khan shared that he suffers from trigeminal neuralgia, a brain aneurysm, and arteriovenous malformation (AVM), among other injuries and ailments, including broken ribs. This candid disclosure came after months of speculation about his health, especially after a viral clip from early 2024 showed him looking unusually fatigued at a public event. On the show, Khan didn't shy away from listing his conditions. 'We're still working with trigeminal neuralgia, with an aneurysm in the brain, with AV malformation. We're walking, we're working despite all this,' he said. These aren't minor setbacks; they're medically complex issues, and AVM in particular can pose significant risks, especially when it involves the brain. So what exactly is AVM, how dangerous can it be, and why should the public care? Let's break down what arteriovenous malformation is, how it impacts the brain and body, and why this rare but dangerous condition is suddenly in the spotlight thanks to one of India's biggest stars. What is AVM (Arteriovenous Malformation)? An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare and abnormal tangle of blood vessels where arteries connect directly to veins without the normal intervening capillaries. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS], this disrupts the typical blood circulation and oxygen exchange in tissues, especially when the AVM occurs in the brain or spinal cord. In a healthy system, arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to body tissues, and veins return oxygen-depleted blood back to the lungs and heart. Capillaries serve as the critical link between the two, allowing oxygen and nutrients to be delivered. But in an AVM, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders, this middle step is missing. As a result, blood bypasses the tissues that need it, leading to oxygen starvation and, over time, damage or even death of nerve cells. How common is AVM and where does it occur? AVMs are rare and most often congenital, meaning people are born with them, though they may not present symptoms until much later in life. The condition is most commonly found in the brain and spinal cord, but AVMs can occur anywhere in the body. In many cases, AVMs go unnoticed. They're often discovered incidentally, during treatment for another issue or even at autopsy. However, when symptoms do occur, they can be sudden, severe, and potentially life-threatening. What are AVM key symptoms While some people with AVM remain symptom-free for years, others may experience a range of signs depending on the size and location of the malformation. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS], common symptoms include: Seizures (focal or generalised) Chronic or severe headaches (sometimes migraine-like) Vision problems (especially if the AVM is near the optic pathways) Muscle weakness or paralysis Numbness or abnormal sensations Difficulty speaking or understanding speech (aphasia) Memory issues, confusion, or even hallucinations Impaired coordination or walking Fainting or dizziness Cognitive decline or executive function difficulty In severe cases, especially when an AVM ruptures, it can cause intracranial haemorrhage, leading to stroke, long-term brain damage, or death (NINDS). Why AVMs are dangerous According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the biggest risk with AVMs is bleeding. Because the malformed vessels have abnormally thin and weak walls, they are prone to rupture under high pressure. Over time, repeated microbleeds can lead to cumulative brain damage and increase the risk of dementia. If a rupture is massive, the result can be a hemorrhagic stroke, which can cause instant, irreversible damage. This is why AVMs that have bled once are more likely to bleed again, particularly within the first year. Another concern is that large AVMs can compress nearby brain structures, leading to hydrocephalus (fluid buildup), increased intracranial pressure, or additional neurological complications. How AVMs are diagnosed AVMs are usually detected using imaging technologies such as: Cerebral angiography – the gold standard for visualising AVMs (Mayo Clinic) MRI and MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) – useful for mapping brain tissues and blood flow CT scan – effective in spotting bleeding Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound – measures blood flow velocity, helpful for diagnosis (NINDS) In some cases, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a distinct rhythmic "whooshing" sound known as a bruit caused by high-speed blood flow may alert clinicians to an AVM, especially when heard near the skull. AVM treatment options Treatment depends on several factors: the size and location of the AVM, whether it has bled before, and the patient's general health. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS], options include: Conventional surgery – surgical removal of the AVM Endovascular embolisation – a catheter-based technique to block blood flow to the AVM using glue-like substances or coils Radiosurgery – non-invasive treatment using focused radiation beams to shrink or close the AVM over time E ach of these comes with risks, particularly for AVMs located deep within the brain. The decision to operate or monitor is typically made on a case-by-case basis. What triggers AVM symptoms ? Interestingly, pregnancy and elevated blood pressure are two conditions that can increase AVM-related risks, including bleeding, as per the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke [NINDS]. Similarly, as in Khan's case, ageing can complicate how these vascular conditions interact. Public awareness: Why Salman Khan's disclosure on AVM matters? For millions of fans who idolise Salman Khan, his health revelation is a wake-up call. AVMs are often invisible until they're catastrophic. By speaking openly, Khan has brought attention to a condition that is poorly understood and rarely discussed. It also raises important questions about mental health, career pressure, and the culture of silent suffering, especially among public figures who are expected to always appear strong and invincible. Living with AVM: Can it be managed? Yes. With early diagnosis and appropriate care, many people with AVM can live relatively normal lives. However, if the malformation bleeds or causes seizures, the stakes become much higher. Regular monitoring and neurological evaluations are key. Some patients choose a watchful waiting approach, especially when the AVM is small and symptom-free. But for others, especially those with a history of bleeding, aggressive intervention is often recommended. 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Mint
19 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Mint
‘Sikandar' star Salman Khan battling 3 severe health conditions — What is brain aneurysm, AVM and trigeminal neuralgia?
'Sikandar' star Salman Khan revealed that he was diagnosed brain aneurysm, AV malformation and trigeminal neuralgia on The Great Indian Kapil Show on Saturday, June 21. Appearing as the new season's first guest, the Bollywood superstar made this big disclosure of this concerning health conditions casually while in the first episode of the most-awaited comedy show. The 59-year-old legendary actor said, 'Hum ye jo daily ki haddiyan tudwa rahe hain, pasliyan toot gai, trigeminal neuralgia ke sath kaam kar rahe hain, aneurysm hai brain mein uske bawajood kaam kar rahe hain. AV malformation hai, uske bawajood chal rahe hain (I'm out here breaking my bones every day — ribs are fractured, I'm working despite having trigeminal neuralgia, there's an aneurysm in the brain, yet I'm still working. There's also an AV malformation, and still, I'm carrying on)." Casually referring to the neurological disorders and struggles he's living with he said that he doesn't have the strength anymore to start from scratch, in case the 'wife' decides to leave and take 'half his money.' He made this statement when was asked about getting married by host Kapil Sharma. Salman Khan confirmed that he is suffering from 3 health conditions, namely brain aneurysm, AV malformation and trigeminal neuralgia. According to US' National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), cerebral aneurysm or brain aneurysm is a weak spot on an artery in the brain that balloons and fills with blood. This is a life-threatening condition as it shows symptoms only when it ruptures, causing haemorrhagic stroke. NINDS describes arteriovenous malformation (AVM) as an abnormal tangle of blood vessels that causes problems with the connections between arteries and veins. This health condition can cause bleeding, seizures, headaches, or neurological issues. Another major health issue the actor suffers from is trigeminal neuralgia (TN) which is also known as tic douloureux. This health condition is a type of chronic pain disorder that involves sudden attacks of severe facial pain. Often described as electric shock, it affects the trigeminal nerve, which helps in transmitting sensations from the face to the brain.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Eric Dane's ALS diagnosis; actor details on ordeals with terminal disease – shares daughter had to save him from drowning
Eric Dane , former 'Grey's Anatomy' actor, has opened up about his recent diagnosis of a rare neurodegenerative disease known as ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The actor shared his ordeal with the disease and how he only has 'one working arm' now. Eric Dane opens up about his ALS diagnosis Eric Danes, 52, opened up and shared his ordeal after getting diagnosed with ALS. The star, during an interview with 'Good Morning America' on June 16, shared that he now only has 'one functioning arm'. He delved into the matter and shared that 'My left side is functioning; my right side has completely stopped working. [My left arm] is going. I feel like maybe a couple more months and I won't have my left hand either. It's sobering.' The actor also talked about how the symptoms first started showing almost a year and a half ago when he started feeling weakness in his hands. He shared that after going to the doctors and getting tested for around 9 months, he was finally given a diagnosis. Dane talks about when his symptoms started showing While talking about the beginning of the disease, he shared that 'I didn't think anything of it at the time. I thought maybe I'd been texting too much or my hand was fatigued, but a few weeks later, I noticed it got a little worse.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo 'So I went and saw a hand specialist, who sent me to another hand specialist. I went and saw a neurologist, and the neurologist sent me to another neurologist and said, 'This is way above my pay grade,'' Dane added. The actor also shared that he will never forget the three letters he received after his diagnosis. 'It's on me the second I wake up. 'It's not a dream,' he stated. Daughter saved him from drowning While sharing anecdotes about his diagnosis, the 'Marley and Me' actor shared that one time his legs almost stopped working while snorkelling, which almost resulted in him drowning. He shared that his daughter saved him that day. 'She dragged me back to the boat; I was, like, breaking down in tears. I made sure she got back to the water with her friend and continued on with the snorkelling. I was just heartbroken,' he shared. What is ALS? ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is a rare neurodegenerative disease that directly affects the motor functions of the body. It was formerly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, and according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, it tends to weaken and affect muscles and voluntary movement.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Alan Jackson's final tour is over. Why his health condition has him calling it a career
Country music icon Alan Jackson, a Georgia native from Newnan, has officially played his last show on his "Last Call: One More for the Road Tour." After a 40-year journey in music, Jackson, 66, announced that the show on May 17 would be his last on tour—ever. The tour began in 2022 and continued through May 2025. The decision to tour one last time came despite his ongoing battle with a chronic neuropathy condition, which he first revealed in 2021. In addition to the final show of his tour, Jackson made a special announcement during the May 17 concert: he will return to Nashville in the summer of 2026 for one final performance. The exact date and location for the show will be revealed at a later time. For over a decade, Jackson has battled Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, an illness that has affected his ability to move and stay balanced on stage. In a 2021 interview with the "TODAY" show's Jenna Bush Hager, Jackson said he inherited the disease from his father, and it has affected several members of his family. He was diagnosed with the disease in 2011. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease causes a range of sensory and motor symptoms, including numbness, tingling, pain, muscle weakness and atrophy — deterioration in cells, tissues, and organs. The disease can also cause foot deformities that worsen over time. In some cases, the disease can affect the nerves that control automatic body functions, leading to problems with sweating and dizziness. Muscle weakness from the disease typically begins in the feet and lower legs during the teen years or early adulthood, though symptoms can appear at any age, reported the institute. Over time, the weakness may spread to the fingers, hands, and arms. Some individuals with CMT might be unaware they have the condition, while others may experience physical disabilities. Symptoms may include: Weakness or paralysis in the foot and lower leg muscles A high-stepping walking pattern with frequent tripping or falling Balance problems Foot deformities, like high arches and curled toes Lower legs with an "inverted champagne bottle" shape due to the loss of muscle bulk Trouble feeling heat, cold and touch Possible hand weakness and atrophy Decreased ability to sense vibrations or know body position Scoliosis Hip displacement A chronic shortening of muscles or tendons around joints Muscle cramps Nerve pain Charcot-Marie-Tooth is mostly an inherited disorder, meaning people with a family history of the disease are more likely to develop it. If a person has the disease, that doesn't mean their children will have it, but it does increase the risk, said the institute. There is no cure for the disease, however treatment programs like physical and occupational therapy can help manage symptoms and help people maintain quality of life, said the institute. Orthopedic devices and surgery may help with symptoms, and doctors may prescribe medication for severe nerve pain. Vanessa Countryman is the Trending Topics Reporter for the the Deep South Connect Team Georgia. Email her at Vcountryman@ This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Alan Jackson health condition: Why he's calling it a career from touring
RTÉ News
03-06-2025
- Health
- RTÉ News
What is CTE and why does it matter for Irish athletes?
Analysis: Brain injuries in sport are a growing public health issue that affects players at all levels, from local community teams to seasoned professionals By Chris Greene, RCSI Whether it's a clash of heads during a rugby tackle, a late hit in Gaelic football, or a crunching collision on the soccer pitch, head impacts in sport are unfortunately part of the game. But what are the long-term consequences? And what should we be doing about them, especially here in Ireland? Brain injuries in sport aren't just a concern for elite athletes or international stars, they're a growing public health issue that affects players at all levels, from local community teams to seasoned professionals. In the United States alone, an estimated 1.6 to 3.8 million sports-related concussions occur every year. But not all head knocks result in a full-blown concussion. In fact, many more go under the radar as "sub-concussive" impacts, blows that might not cause obvious symptoms but still impact the brain. There is mounting evidence that it is the cumulative effect of these repeated, lower impact hits; not just the number of concussions, that plays a key role in the development of a serious condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). From RTÉ Radio 1's Saturday with Colm Ó Mongáin, Ombudsman waiting eight years for children's sport concussion policy What is CTE? CTE is a progressive brain disease linked to repeated head injuries. It's been seen in boxers, American footballers, rugby players, and increasingly in other contact sports like soccer or MMA. At present, it can only be definitively diagnosed after death, during an autopsy. Neuropathologists look for an abnormal build-up of a protein called tau, which clusters around small blood vessels in the brain. This build-up appears to damage nearby brain tissue and over time may lead to memory loss, mood swings, and confusion. Because diagnosing CTE in living individuals remains a challenge, researchers have developed a set of clinical guidelines called Traumatic Encephalopathy Syndrome (TES). Think of TES as a way to spot red flags like memory problems or changes in behaviour in people with a history of head injuries. These criteria, updated by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) in 2021, were developed by studying confirmed CTE cases. While TES does not provide a definitive diagnosis, it indicates the possibility of trauma-related brain injury. Ongoing international projects, like DIAGNOSE CTE, are trying to find ways to detect signs of the disease earlier, but we're not quite there yet. From CNN, Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the causes and symptoms of chronic traumatic encephalopathy What's the role of the blood-brain barrier? One of the most important and least understood players in this story is something called the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It's a kind of security gate that protects the brain from harmful substances in the bloodstream. Disruptions to the BBB have been seen in many neurological disorders, including traumatic brain injury. In CTE, researchers have found that the protective barrier may start to leak, allowing toxic proteins or inflammatory molecules to seep into brain tissue. Our research group, alongside others, has found that athletes exposed to repetitive head injury, even without a diagnosed concussion, can show signs of this barrier breaking down. It's not just in American football or boxing; similar patterns are being investigated in Irish rugby and GAA players too. Ireland isn't just watching from the sidelines. A collaborative project between RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, and St James's Hospital is exploring how repeated head trauma affects the blood-brain barrier and how this might contribute to memory issues or cognitive decline in later life. The project, funded by Research Ireland, uses advanced imaging techniques, such as dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, to measure BBB health in retired athletes. What's striking is that even years after leaving the sport, some former players still show signs of brain changes. The next step is to understand how this relates to things like depression, memory loss, or dementia. Why it matters Traumatic brain injuries have been linked with a higher risk of conditions like dementia, mood disorders, and even suicide. In the US, retired American footballers are five times more likely to develop dementia. But this isn't just an American story. A Scottish study found that former professional soccer players were 3.5 times more likely to die from a neurodegenerative disease. Swedish studies have shown similar findings. While Irish data is still emerging, there are real concerns for former rugby players here at home. Rugby only turned professional in the mid-1990s, so we're just beginning to understand the long-term impacts on those who played at the top level. From RTÉ Radio 1's Today with Claire Byrne, Consultant Neurologist at the Mater Professor Tim Lynch on concussions in sport A game of balance Sport is a vital part of Irish life. From weekend GAA matches to the roar of the Aviva on a Six Nations Day, it brings people together, builds community, and supports mental and physical health. But with this passion must come responsibility. Protecting brain health isn't about taking the joy out of sport, it's about ensuring that players can enjoy those benefits long after the final whistle. That means better awareness, smarter rules, improved protective equipment, and ongoing research into how to detect and treat brain injuries early. It also means listening to former players, parents, coaches, and medical professionals as we build a safer future for the next generation of Irish athletes.
