Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency Treatment

Chronic Cerebrospinal venous insufficiency is a neurological condition associated with the brain and central nervous system (CNS). In this condition a person experiences foggy thinking, difficulty in coordination, dizziness, headache and many more. This happened due to slow blood circulation and low oxygen supply to the brain. Those veins which carry blood away from the brain and spine work abnormally and often get narrow or blocked. Hence this makes it hard for blood to flow out of the brain the way it should.

When this happens, the blood gets stuck somewhere else and goes the wrong way or takes longer paths through other veins. According to neurologists the condition might be associated with diseases such as multiple sclerosis that affect the overall body and brain function. However, this connection is still controversial because of unproven facts. Furthermore, treatments like Venoplasty can restore proper venous blood flow although, this method of treatment is considered experimental and have not been conclusive outputs.   

CCSVI Symptoms 

Following are the primary symptoms of Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency: 

• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Confusion 
• Brain Fog 
• Fatigue
• Poor Sleep 
• Visual Impairment 
• Tinnitus 

Diagnosis For CCSVI 

Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency CCSVI diagnosis remain controversial due to link between multiple sclerosis however, its common diagnostic tests include: 

Ultrasound: This is a non-invasive process which includes certain sound waves to detect present abnormalities in the veins. The abnormalities could be narrowing veins, blockage and reflux. The test is commonly used to recognize CCSVI through detecting abnormal blood flow in the neck veins and spinal veins. 

Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV): It is an imaging test which involves using magnetic resonance imaging to visualize blood vessels. It assists in identifying venous abnormalities that could be present in the brain and spinal cord. 

Venography: This is an invasive procedure which involves using dye. The dye is injected into the veins with the help of certain medical tools and followed by X-rays imaging on the computer screen. The test allows the direct visualization of the veins and can confirm narrowing or other abnormalities. 

Neuroimaging (MRI OR CT): Although it is not systematically used for diagnosing CCSVI itself. However, MRI OR CT scans are performed to know the causes of neurological symptoms like MS lesions that may overlap with CCSVI in the patients.  

CCSVI Treatment 

Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous treatment purpose is to correct abnormal venous drainage in the brain and spinal cord, which is responsible for symptoms and multiple sclerosis. However, it is critical to understand that CCSVI remains a controversial condition and no treatment has been universally proven to be effective or widely recommended by major neurological or vascular associations.

Moreover, here are the most common treatments that have been explored by the medical professionals. These include: 

1. Percutaneous Transluminal Angiography

It is the popular treatment for CCSVI and it involves insertion of balloon and catheter into the affected veins, generally the internal jugular or azygos vein. The balloon is used to inflate to open up narrowed sections of the vein. The goal of this treatment is to restore the normal blood flow from the brain to the spinal cord. According to medical experts some patients improved fatigue, mobility and cognitive function. Although the treatment is beneficial for the patients but it can pose some risks as well these risks are vein damage, blood clotting, bleeding, infection etc.  

2. Stent Placement 

Stent placement is occasionally used when the vein gets re-narrow after angioplasty. It is a controversial treatment which involves certain risks including stent migration, thrombosis and vein rupture. Hence, this treatment is rarely recommended by the professionals due to safety concerns. 

3. Anticoagulant or Antiplatelet Therapy 

Oftentimes after angioplasty and stenting patients may be placed on blood thinners to prevent blood clotting in the brain and spinal cord.It is not standalone treatment for CCSVI, However, it is considered supportive care after the procedure.  

4. Lifestyle and Supportive Therapies 

The treatment does not directly treat the condition however it is effective enough to reduce symptoms. It provides hydration and positioning to improve venous flow. Physical therapies to aid with MS-related symptoms. 

5. Experimental and Complementary Approaches

Doctors often recommend alternative therapies like diet changes, taking supplements, hyperbaric oxygen etc. These contribute to circulating blood and reducing inflammation.