BRAIN ANEURYSM

A brain aneurysm is relatively rare condition where there is a weakness within a blood vessel in the brain that causes it balloon or bulge and they often they occur between the brain itself and the thin tissues covering it.

Brain aneurysms often result from the thinning of artery walls, most typically in the base of the brain, and are dangerous because they carry a high risk of rupturing or leaking, which can result in bleeding into the brain.1 Often most brain aneurysms never rupture and don’t cause any noticeable symptoms if they’re small. However, very rarely, larger aneurysms can press on brain tissues and nerves.

While these symptoms are extremely rare it’s always wise to talk with your doctor about your particular case to see if treatment is necessary in order to avoid the aneurysm rupturing in the future.

If ruptured, a brain aneurysm only bleeds for only a couple of seconds, but that can be all it takes because even a small amount blood can be very damaging to the surrounding cells and can put a dangerous amount of pressure on brain tissue. If the pressure becomes too great it can result in unconsciousness or even death.

If you are experiencing the symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm, contact emergency services. If you have been diagnosed with an unruptured brain aneurysm and are looking for treatment, or have any questions about your condition, please contact us!

SYMPTOMS OF A BRAIN ANEURYSM

The primary symptom of an aneurysm is a sudden, extreme headache and you should seek medical attention immediately if you experience this condition.

Other symptoms of a ruptured or leaking brain aneurysm can include:1

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Blurred or double vision

  • Stiff neck

  • Feeling dazed, spacey or "out-of-it"

  • Seizures

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Loss of consciousness

  • A drooping eyelid

Brain aneurysms tend to manifest themselves quickly so it’s important that you see a doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

DIAGNOSING A BRAIN ANEURYSM

Once you have sought medical attention, diagnosing a brain aneurysm involves a myriad of tests to determine if bleeding has occurred, including CT scans, cerebral angiogram, and cerebro-spinal fluid test.

TREATMENT OF A BRAIN ANEURYSM

Surgical treatment of a brain aneurysm usually involves either surgical clipping, which stops blood flow to aneurysm by placing a small metal clip at the neck of the aneurysm, or endovascular coiling, which seals the aneurysm by causing the blood in the affected vessel to clot with a wire coil threaded through a catheter.

References

1. Brain aneurysm. (2019, January 23). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/dis...

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