~What is Arteriovenous Malformation?~

Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) is the abnormal collection and tangle of blood vessels in the brain. Though present at birth, it is not hereditary. AVM is not dependent on race or sex. Strokelike symptoms can be experienced with AVMs because the brain is not able to get teh oxygen from the blood that it normally would.

~Symptoms~

Symptoms leading to the diagnosis of AVM vary with each person. Seizures and headaches are common symptoms with AVMs. Symptoms usually do not appear until people are well into their 30s. Sometimes AVMs are not even diagnosed until a person is elderly or even after death. AVMs can be diagnosed via a CT or an MRI examination of the vessels in the brain.

~Treatments~

Arteriovenous malformaitons can be treated with embolization, radiation, or surgery. Embolization, stopping up the vessel, is said to be the safest and most effective treatment for AVMs.

Information from MayoClinic.com & http://www.cumc.columbia.edu/dept/cerebro/AVM.html and image from http://content.revolutionhealth.com/contentimages/images-image_popup-ans7_avm.jpg

~What is Chronic Sinusitis?~

Chronic Sinusitis is a recurrent inflammation of the sinuses. It is a sinus infection that never seems to go away. With chronic sinusitis a persons sinuses are swollen and inflamed with drainage and mucus build-up.

~Symptoms~

With chronic sinusitis you may have headaches and facial pain. Swelling around the eyes may be experienced. Drainage and trouble breathing are also symptoms of recurrent sinus infections. And bad breath, sore throat, and ear pain are some more common symptoms.

~Treatments~

Chronic sinusitis is similar to an acute sinus infection but last much longer and you never seem to completely get rid of it. Treatments vary and may include nasal sprays, antibiotics, corticosteroids (oral, nasal, or injected) as well as over the counter sinus medications and decongestants. Allergy shots may be given if the chronic sinusitis is allergy related. And, if symptoms continue and do not seem to react to medication, surgery may be an option.

Information from MayoClinic.com and image from http://www.drpaulose.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/sinusitis1.jpg