Dealing with Fibromuscular Dysplasia

Also known simply as FMD, fibromuscular dysplasia is a health issue in which an unusual cluster of cells begins to grow within an arterial wall. As the cluster grows, it will cause the artery to narrow, making it harder for blood to flow through and reach vital organs. This condition can impact any of the arteries around the body, and in turn cause problems with the brain, the heart, as well as pain and numbness in the arms and legs.

There is some speculation as to what actually causes fibromuscular dysplasia to develop. One theory is that the condition will develop as a result of genetics. People who have close relatives with this form of dysplasia appear to be more likely to develop clusters somewhere in the arteries of the body. However, there is not as yet a test or an accepted body of research that confirms the role of genetics or heredity in the development of fibromuscular dysplasia.

Hormones are also sometimes cited as the possible origin of the condition. This is because more cases of the disease are reported among women who are premenopausal. However, there is currently no evidence that definitively proves fibromuscular dysplasia is more likely to take place because of the number of children a women bears, or the time of life in which she gives birth.

One relatively accepted theory behind the presence of fibromuscular dysplasia is that the condition may already be present at birth, and only becomes apparent later in life, once the clusters begin to grow. The trigger for the growth could be anything that encourages the development of unhealthy cells in the body, such as tobacco use or medications that prevent the immune system from containing the abnormality.

There are a number of symptoms associated with this condition, with many of them indicating the location of the abnormal cell clusters. If the arteries leading to the kidneys are affected, the individual is likely to experience an increase in blood pressure. If left untreated, the dysplasia may cause kidney failure.

When the carotid arteries are affected, the individual may notice an increased ringing in the ears, as well as more pain in the neck. The vision may also become blurred from time to time, and headaches will increase in frequency and severity. There is also the chance for dizziness to take place on a recurring basis.

If the arteries in the arms and legs are affected, there is likely to be a pronounced sense of weakness in the extremities. The limbs will also feel cold to the touch, and shooting pains may occur frequently. There is also the chance that the skin will become mottled or discolored in some fashion, indicating that blood flow is not taking place as it should.

Treatment for fibromuscular dysplasia will vary, depending on the location of the cluster, and the general health of the patient. In some cases, medication can be used to treat the symptoms of the disease while a more permanent solution is sought. Medicine may also be used to prevent the narrowing of the arteries. In severe situations, surgery may be required to repair the damage to the arteries. However, it must be understood there is no cure for fibromuscular dysplasia. Even after surgery, the patient is likely to remain on medication to prevent the development of more clusters in the future.