- A brain aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in a blood vessel within the brain, caused by weakness in the arterial wall. This weakness allows the blood vessel to expand abnormally, creating a sac that can vary in size from a few millimeters to more than an inch. These aneurysms most commonly form at branch points of arteries at the base of the brain, in an area known as the Circle of Willis.
- The most dangerous aspect of a brain aneurysm is its potential to rupture, causing a subarachnoid hemorrhage – bleeding into the space surrounding the brain. This is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate. Common symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include sudden, severe headache often described as “the worst headache of my life,” nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
- Unruptured aneurysms may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during brain imaging for other conditions. However, larger aneurysms can create pressure on surrounding brain tissue, potentially causing symptoms like localized headache, dilated pupils, blurred or double vision, pain above or behind the eye, weakness, and difficulty speaking.
- Risk factors for developing brain aneurysms include smoking, high blood pressure, family history, age (more common in people 40-60 years old), gender (more prevalent in women), certain genetic disorders, and drug use, particularly cocaine. Lifestyle factors that can increase risk include excessive alcohol consumption and certain medications.
- Treatment options depend on various factors including the aneurysm’s size, location, and whether it has ruptured. Common treatments include surgical clipping, where a metal clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to prevent blood flow into it, and endovascular coiling, a less invasive procedure where tiny coils are inserted through arteries to fill the aneurysm and promote clotting.
- Prevention strategies focus on controlling modifiable risk factors through lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, managing blood pressure, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol consumption. Regular medical check-ups are important for those with known risk factors or family history.
