Cavernous sinus thrombosis: symptoms, medications, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is cavernous sinus thrombosis?

Cavernous sinus thrombosis (TSC) or cavernous sinus thrombosis is a condition when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain and behind the eye socket. These are the blood vessels that carry blood from the face and head back to the heart.

The most common cause of cavernous sinus thrombosis is infection. But other factors can also contribute.

Although classified as rare, these infections are life threatening and require immediate treatment, which includes antibiotics and sometimes drainage surgery.

How common is cavernous sinus thrombosis?

This condition can occur in patients of any age, from children to adults. This condition can be treated by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Characteristics and symptoms

What are the features and symptoms of cavernous sinus thrombosis?

There are various features and symptoms of TSC. Here are the most common causes:

• Severe headaches
• Swelling, redness, or irritation around one or both eyes
• Dropped eyelids
• Cannot move eyes
• High fever
• Pain or numbness around the face or eyes
• Fatigue
• Loss of vision or double vision
• Seizures

When should I see a doctor?

Early diagnosis and treatment can stop this condition from worsening and prevent other medical emergencies, so talk to your doctor right away to prevent this serious condition.

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes cavernous sinus thrombosis?

Infection is believed to be a common cause of cavernous sinus thrombosis. The infection has spread to the face, sinuses or teeth. Although rare, infections of the ear or eye can also cause cavernous sinus thrombosis.

To prevent infection, the body's immune system produces clots to prevent bacteria or other pathogens from spreading. These clots increase the pressure on the brain which can be damaging and can lead to death.

In rare cases, cavernous sinus thrombosis can also be caused by a hard blow to the head.

Cavernous sinus thrombosis is more common in people who use certain medications or who have health conditions that can increase the risk of blood clots.

Triggers

What puts me at risk for cavernous sinus thrombosis?

Depending on whether you are an adult or a child, the triggering factors may be different. You may be at higher risk for this condition if you have the following conditions:

Adult

• Problems with blood clots, such as antiphospholipid syndrome, protein C and S deficiencies, antithrombin III deficiency, lupus anticoagulants, or factor V Leiden mutations
• Cancer

Children

• Problems with the way the blood forms clots
• Certain infections
• Injury to the head
• For newborns: if the mother has certain infections or a history of infertility

Diagnosis and treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How do doctors diagnose cavernous sinus thrombosis?

If your doctor suspects that you have TSC, a physical exam will be performed and your doctor will also order several tests, including:

• MRI scan
• CT scan

How is cavernous sinus thrombosis treated?

Treatment of cavernous sinus thrombosis should be started immediately and carried out in a hospital. The doctor may suggest several treatment options:

• Antibiotics, if there is an infection. Antibiotics are the main treatment for cavernous sinus thrombosis. Treatment will be started as early as possible, even before tests are confirmed whether a bacterial infection is the cause. If tests show that a bacterial infection is not the cause, antibiotics can be stopped.
• Most people will need 3-4 times on antibiotics to make sure the infection has completely cleared up from the body. Doctors treat cavernous sinus thrombosis with high doses of antibiotics. Usually antibiotics are given intravenously
• Anti-seizure drugs to control when seizures occur
• Monitor and control the pressure in the head
• Anticoagulant drugs to stop blood clots
• Operation
• Continued surveillance of brain activity
• Measure visual acuity and watch for changes
• Rehabilitation

Prevention

What can be done to prevent cavernous sinus thrombosis?

The following are lifestyle changes that can help you prevent cavernous sinus thrombosis:

• Eat a healthy diet.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Increase physical activity
• Limit alcohol intake
• Do not smoke
• Deal with stress
• Practice relaxation or breathe deeply and slowly

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.