Dural Arteriovenous Fistulae
Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of dural arteriovenous fistulae (DAVF) can vary widely, depending on the location of the fistulae. Some DAVFs have no symptoms at all and aren't discovered until patients are evaluated for other neurological or vascular conditions.

Some of the common symptoms include:

• Headaches — Headaches are among the most common symptoms with all types of DAVFs
• Ringing in Ears — An unusual ringing or humming in the ears may be symptom, particularly when the DAVF is near the ear. Some patients hear a pulsating noise caused by blood flow through the fistula.
• Stroke-like Symptoms — All types of DAVFs can cause stroke-like symptoms and seizures, if they rupture. Bleeding in the brain is the most serious side effect and can cause permanent disability or death.
• Visual Problems — When DAVFs are located near the eye, patients often complain of impaired vision, eye redness and swelling, and sinus congestion.

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.