Brain Aneurysms: Symptoms & What To Know
A brain aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel that can resemble a berry hanging from a stem. These aneurysms have the potential to rupture, leading to life-threatening bleeding in the brain.
In many cases, individuals may be unaware that they have a brain aneurysm, as they often don’t present any symptoms. Typically, a doctor discovers an aneurysm incidentally while conducting tests for other medical conditions.
What are the Signs of a Ruptured Aneurysm?
A ruptured brain aneurysm typically presents itself as a sudden and severe headache, often described as the worst headache of one’s life.
Accompanying symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness, blurred vision, and seizures.
Given the life-threatening nature of a ruptured brain aneurysm, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention once symptoms arise.
How Can a Brain Aneurysm Be Detected?
If you begin to experience symptoms that may indicate a brain aneurysm, it is crucial to consult with your doctor promptly. Signs such as a sudden and intense headache or other related symptoms should not be ignored.
In emergency situations, patients will be given immediate diagnostic tests to determine the presence of an aneurysm and whether it has ruptured. These assessments can help identify any bleeding in the space between the brain and its protective lining.
By seeking medical attention quickly, you increase your chances of receiving timely and effective treatment for this potentially life-threatening condition.
What Puts You at Risk for a Brain Aneurysm?
Brain aneurysms can be influenced by both congenital and acquired risk factors. Congenital factors, present from birth, may include a family history of brain aneurysms, polycystic kidney disease, inherited connective tissue disorders, an abnormally narrow aorta, and cerebral arteriovenous malformation.
As individuals age, certain lifestyle choices and health conditions can also increase the risk of developing an aneurysm. These acquired factors may consist of alcohol and drug use, smoking, high blood pressure, and simply aging.
What Treatments Exist for Ruptured Aneurysms?
If a healthcare professional identifies a ruptured aneurysm, the patient will require surgery to repair the bleeding.
One common procedure is surgical clipping, which aims to seal off the aneurysm and halt the bleeding. During this operation, the surgeon removes a section of the skull to access the brain and locate the aneurysm. They then place a metal clip at the bleeding site to stop the blood flow.
Another option is endovascular coiling, a less invasive surgery that involves inserting a catheter into an artery in the groin area and guiding it through to the brain and the aneurysm. The insertion of a metal coil disrupts the blood flow to the aneurysm, effectively treating the issue.
What Options are Available for Unruptured Aneurysms?
Endovascular coiling and surgical clipping are common treatments for unruptured brain aneurysms, often accompanied by pain relievers to alleviate headache symptoms.
When determining the most suitable treatment, doctors consider various risk factors, such as family history, age, overall health, as well as the aneurysm’s size and location.
What is the Recovery Timeline Following Surgery?
The usual recovery period after brain aneurysm surgery ranges from four to six weeks. During this time, patients must remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for close monitoring, typically for a few days before being discharged.
Once released, they need to be cautious and avoid specific activities to ensure a smooth recovery. It’s common for individuals to feel fatigued for up to twelve weeks after such a major operation. To promote healing, it’s crucial for patients to get ample rest and follow their doctor’s instructions diligently.
What Complications Might Arise?
When a brain aneurysm ruptures, it can cause cell death in the brain, even if the bleeding lasts only a few seconds. This bleeding can disrupt the brain’s oxygen supply and increase pressure on the brain.
It’s important to note that, even after surgical intervention, there is a possibility of bleeding occurring again.
In some cases, vasospasm may occur, leading to a narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain. This condition has the potential to cause an ischemic stroke and damage these vital vessels.
Another complication to be aware of is hyponatremia, which can result in a significant drop in sodium levels, potentially causing permanent brain damage.
Lastly, hydrocephalus is a complication that arises when an aneurysm ruptures. This condition can obstruct the proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid, resulting in an excessive buildup of fluid in the brain.
Can You Develop Another Aneurysm?
Yes, it is possible to experience another aneurysm after the first one has been treated or resolved. According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, the likelihood of recurrence falls between 10 and 15 percent.
The odds of facing another aneurysm are higher for individuals under the age of fifty and those with health conditions that predispose them to aneurysms, further elevating their risk.
When is it Time to Consult a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a doctor promptly. Regular testing is vital if you have an aneurysm or a family history of this condition.
In case of a sudden, intense headache, don’t hesitate to call emergency services. Discuss aneurysm treatment options with your physician to determine the best course of action.
Additionally, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent aneurysm rupture. Regular screenings are essential to ensure that a diagnosed brain aneurysm doesn’t pose any immediate health risks.
Who Should Consider Brain Aneurysm Screenings?
If you have one or two parents who have experienced a brain aneurysm, it’s important to undergo regular screenings to monitor your own brain health.
Your physician may recommend diagnostic testing to ensure the brain is functioning properly, and may also suggest screening for individuals with congenital health problems that can lead to brain aneurysms, such as defects in the brain artery wall or circulation issues.
Diagnostic tools like CT scans, MRIs, cerebrospinal fluid tests, and cerebral angiograms can help identify the presence of an aneurysm.
