Salman Khan Reveals He’s Battling Brain Aneurysm, AV Malformation & Trigeminal Neuralgia: What These Conditions Mean and Why They Matter
In a recent episode of The Great Indian Kapil Show, actor Salman Khan opened up about his ongoing health challenges, revealing that he is battling not just one, but multiple rare and serious neurological conditions. While the Bollywood star had previously shared his struggle with trigeminal neuralgia—a painful nerve disorder—he has now disclosed that he is also dealing with a brain aneurysm and an arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
Khan’s revelation has shed light on conditions that are often misunderstood or go unnoticed, and has sparked a broader conversation around health, stress, and the importance of early detection.
What Is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm is essentially a weak or thin spot in a blood vessel in the brain that balloons out and fills with blood. This bulge, if left untreated, can grow over time and may rupture, leading to a life-threatening brain bleed known as a hemorrhagic stroke.
Most aneurysms don’t cause symptoms until they either grow large or rupture. When symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Sudden, severe headache
- Blurred or double vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Loss of consciousness
Risk factors for brain aneurysms include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Chronic stress
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Family history of aneurysms
Sometimes, aneurysms are discovered by accident during brain imaging for unrelated issues. In other cases, they’re only detected after a medical emergency.
What Is an AV Malformation (AVM)?
An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare tangle of abnormal blood vessels connecting arteries and veins in the brain. Normally, blood flows from arteries to capillaries and then to veins. But in an AVM, this process is bypassed, causing high-pressure blood to flow directly from arteries into veins, potentially leading to rupture or brain damage.
AVMs are typically congenital, meaning they are present from birth, although symptoms may not appear until later in life. These may include:
- Headaches or migraines
- Seizures
- Weakness or numbness in parts of the body
- Speech difficulties
- Vision problems
In severe cases, AVMs can cause strokes or brain hemorrhages, especially if they rupture. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, or endovascular embolization to block off the abnormal vessels.
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Known as one of the most excruciating pain disorders, trigeminal neuralgia affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. It is often referred to as the “suicide disease” because of the unbearable nature of the pain.
People with this condition experience intense, electric shock-like facial pain, often triggered by simple activities such as:
- Brushing teeth
- Eating or drinking
- Talking
- Smiling
- Light touch to the face
The condition is usually caused by a blood vessel pressing on the nerve, but it can also result from multiple sclerosis or a tumor.
Treatment may include anticonvulsant medications, nerve blocks, or surgical interventions to relieve pressure on the nerve.
The Link Between Stress and Neurological Health
While Salman Khan did not directly blame his health issues on lifestyle factors, experts emphasize that chronic stress and poor health routines can increase vulnerability to neurological conditions. According to Dr. Samrat Shah, Consultant Physician at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, chronic stress disturbs the body’s balance and weakens vascular structures.
“Chronic stress increases cortisol and blood pressure, which can damage blood vessels over time and raise the risk of serious conditions like heart disease or even brain aneurysms,” said Dr. Shah.
Stress, poor sleep, erratic eating patterns, and long working hours can strain the nervous system and cardiovascular health, setting the stage for complications like aneurysms and AVMs, especially in genetically predisposed individuals.
Why Salman Khan’s Story Is a Wake-Up Call
Despite his conditions, Salman Khan has continued to maintain a demanding professional life, even performing physically intense action sequences in films. His situation is a powerful reminder that health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of outward appearances or fitness levels.
It also raises awareness about the invisible toll that lifestyle stress, irregular schedules, and ignoring warning signs can take on one’s body.
How Can You Protect Your Brain and Nerve Health?
Experts recommend adopting a holistic lifestyle approach to reduce your risk of developing such serious conditions:
- Prioritize Sleep
Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your brain to rest and repair.
- Manage Stress
Incorporate mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation to reduce cortisol levels and calm your nervous system.
- Eat Well
Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid excessive processed foods and sugar.
- Exercise Regularly
Even a brisk 30-minute walk a day can significantly benefit both brain and cardiovascular health.
- Don’t Ignore Symptoms
If you experience unusual headaches, facial pain, or vision problems, consult a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis can prevent major complications.
Salman Khan’s openness about his medical conditions is not only brave but also invaluable in promoting health awareness. His story underscores a vital lesson: Listen to your body, manage your stress, and never take your health for granted.
