Fibromuscular Dysplasia – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-inflammatory vascular condition that affects medium-sized arteries in the body. The condition causes these arteries to narrow and enlarge, which restricts blood flow to organs and tissues.
FMD most commonly affects the arteries supplying the kidneys and brain. However, it can also develop in arteries of the legs, heart, abdomen, and, less frequently, the arms. Many patients have multiple affected arteries.
While there’s no cure for fibromuscular dysplasia, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and prevent serious complications like stroke. These treatments focus on improving blood flow and reducing the risk of complications.
Signs and Symptoms
Fibromuscular dysplasia symptoms vary based on which blood vessels are affected. Some people may have no symptoms at all.
When kidney arteries are involved, common signs include:
- High Blood Pressure
- Kidney Function Problems
If brain arteries are affected, you might experience:
- Headaches
- Tinnitus (ringing or pulsing sounds in ears)
- Dizziness
- Sudden Neck Pain
- Stroke or Mini-Stroke (transient ischemic attack)
When To Get Medical Help
Seek emergency care immediately if you experience possible stroke symptoms, including:
- Sudden Vision Changes
- Trouble Speaking
- New Weakness in Arms or Legs
If you’re worried about your fibromuscular dysplasia risk, schedule a checkup with your doctor. While this condition can occasionally run in families, there’s currently no genetic test available to screen for it.
Causes
The exact cause of fibromuscular dysplasia remains unknown. Genetic factors may contribute to the development of this condition.
The disease affects women more frequently than men, suggesting female hormones might play a role in its development.
However, researchers haven’t determined the specific connection. It’s important to note that using birth control pills has not been linked to fibromuscular dysplasia.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase your chance of developing fibromuscular dysplasia:
- Gender: Women face a higher risk than men.
- Age: Most diagnoses occur in people during their 50s, though the condition can affect anyone at any age.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking not only raises the risk of developing this condition but can also worsen symptoms in those who already have it.
Complications
Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) can lead to several serious health problems. These complications can affect quality of life and may require medical attention.
High Blood Pressure
The narrowing of kidney arteries from FMD often causes hypertension. When arteries become narrow, the body works harder to push blood through them.
This increased pressure can damage the heart over time and might lead to heart failure if not properly managed.
Arterial Dissection
Tears in artery walls frequently occur alongside fibromuscular dysplasia. These tears, called dissections, can slow or block normal blood flow.
A particularly dangerous form is spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), which affects the heart’s blood vessels. This condition requires immediate emergency care.
Aneurysms
FMD can weaken artery walls, causing them to bulge or balloon outward. These bulges, called aneurysms, pose significant risks.
If an aneurysm ruptures, it creates a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical intervention. The risk of rupture increases with the size of the aneurysm.
Stroke Risk
The brain complications of FMD can be particularly serious. Both arterial tears and aneurysm ruptures in brain vessels can trigger strokes. Additionally, the high blood pressure often accompanying FMD further increases stroke risk.
Common FMD Complications
| Complication | Description | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| High blood pressure | Narrowed arteries increase pressure | Requires ongoing management |
| Arterial dissection | Tears in artery walls | Emergency medical care needed |
| Aneurysms | Bulging, weakened arteries | Monitor small ones; emergencies if ruptured |
| Stroke | Brain damage from blocked blood flow | Immediate emergency care required |
Managing these complications often requires:
- Regular blood pressure monitoring
- Imaging tests to check for aneurysms
- Quick response to warning signs of dissection
- Preventive medications as prescribed
People with FMD should learn the warning signs of these complications. Sudden, severe headache, facial drooping, arm weakness, or speech problems might indicate a stroke. Sharp chest pain could signal a coronary artery dissection.
