Salman Khan Reveals Battle With Brain Aneurysm and Trigeminal Neuralgia: What These Serious Conditions Mean
Salman Khan reveals he is battling a brain aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation (AVM), and trigeminal neuralgia. Learn what these serious conditions mean and how stress may impact brain health.
Salman Khan Reveals Battle With Brain Aneurysm and Trigeminal Neuralgia: What These Serious Conditions Mean

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has revealed that he is battling multiple serious neurological conditions, including a brain aneurysm, trigeminal neuralgia, and arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Speaking on The Great Indian Kapil Show, the actor opened up about his health journey, highlighting the importance of early detection, awareness, and stress management.
🧠 What Is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain, caused by a weak spot in the vessel wall. This condition can be life-threatening if it ruptures, leading to a hemorrhagic stroke or brain bleed.
Common causes of brain aneurysms include:
High blood pressure
Smoking
Chronic stress
Genetic predisposition
Symptoms of a brain aneurysm (if it ruptures) include:
Sudden, severe headache
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred or double vision
Loss of consciousness
Often, aneurysms are silent and detected incidentally during medical scans.
🩸 What Is an Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM)?
An AVM is a rare tangle of abnormal blood vessels that bypass normal brain circulation. Instead of blood flowing through capillaries, it moves directly from arteries to veins, increasing pressure on brain tissues.
AVM symptoms may include:
Seizures
Headaches
Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
Muscle weakness
Speech or vision problems
AVMs are usually congenital (present from birth) but may remain undetected for years. In severe cases, they may rupture and cause brain hemorrhage.
⚡ What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia? The "Suicide Disease"
Salman Khan was first diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia in 2011, a chronic condition often dubbed the “suicide disease” due to its extreme pain.
This disorder causes sudden, intense facial pain, often triggered by simple actions like:
Brushing teeth
Eating
Smiling
Light touch or breeze
It occurs when a blood vessel compresses the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for facial sensations. Treatment often includes medication, nerve blocks, or surgery.
🧘♂️ The Link Between Stress and Neurological Disorders
While Salman Khan hasn't attributed his conditions directly to lifestyle habits, medical experts say chronic stress, irregular sleep, and unhealthy routines can exacerbate neurological issues.
“High stress elevates cortisol and blood pressure, weakening blood vessels and raising the risk of aneurysms or AVMs,” says Dr. Samrat Shah, Consultant Physician at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.
💡 Salman Khan’s Health Is a Wake-Up Call for Everyone
Despite his diagnosis, Salman Khan remains active, performing stunts and continuing his film commitments. His health story is a reminder that even the fittest celebrities can face hidden health battles.
Long working hours, lack of sleep, and neglecting regular check-ups can have serious consequences—even if you're a superstar.
✅ 5 Ways to Protect Your Brain and Nerve Health
Get Enough Sleep – 7 to 8 hours daily
Manage Stress – Practice yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
Eat a Balanced Diet – Avoid processed foods and maintain hydration
Stay Physically Active – Even 30 minutes of walking helps
Don’t Ignore Symptoms – Seek medical help for persistent headaches or nerve pain