Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: What to Know

What is cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT)?

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a condition in which there is a blood clot in one or more of the veins that drain blood from the brain. This can lead to an increase in pressure in the brain, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including headaches, seizures, and vision changes.

What are the risk factors for CVT?

There are a number of risk factors for CVT, including the following:

- Certain medical conditions, such as cancer, pregnancy, and clotting disorders

- Head injury

- Infection

- Use of certain medications, such as estrogen-containing birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy

What are the symptoms of CVT?

The symptoms of CVT can vary depending on the location of the clot and the extent of the obstruction. Some common symptoms include the following:

- Headaches

- Nausea and vomiting

- Seizures

- Vision changes

- Weakness on one side of the body

- Speech problems

- Confusion

- Loss of consciousness

How is CVT treated?

The treatment for CVT depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Treatment may include the following:

- Anticoagulants (blood thinners) to prevent new clots from forming

- Thrombolytic therapy (clot-busting drugs) to dissolve existing clots

- Surgery to remove the clot

- Supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications

What is the prognosis for CVT?

The prognosis for CVT depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Most people with CVT recover fully, but some may experience long-term problems, such as seizures, headaches, and vision problems.

How can CVT be prevented?

There is no sure way to prevent CVT, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as the following:

- If you have a clotting disorder, talk to your doctor about ways to manage it.

- Avoid head injuries.

- If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of CVT.

- If you are taking estrogen-containing birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, talk to your doctor about whether this medication is right for you.

If you experience any of the symptoms of CVT, see your doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of a full recovery.