A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm, is a condition characterized by a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel within the brain. This abnormality often resembles a berry hanging on a stem.
Experts believe that brain aneurysms develop and expand due to the pressure exerted by blood flowing through a weak area of the blood vessel wall. This increased pressure can cause the aneurysm to grow in size. If the aneurysm ruptures or leaks, it leads to bleeding in the brain, resulting in a hemorrhagic stroke.
Typically, a ruptured brain aneurysm occurs in the space between the brain and its thin covering tissues, known as the subarachnoid space. This type of hemorrhagic stroke is referred to as a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Brain aneurysms are relatively common; however, the majority of them are not serious, especially when they are small and do not rupture. Most brain aneurysms are asymptomatic and do not pose any health problems. In many cases, they are incidentally discovered during medical imaging tests conducted for unrelated conditions.
Nevertheless, a ruptured brain aneurysm is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate medical intervention.
In certain cases, treatment may be recommended for unruptured brain aneurysms to prevent future ruptures. The appropriate treatment options for an unruptured aneurysm should be discussed with a healthcare professional based on individual circumstances.
Types of brain aneurysms include:
Saccular aneurysm (berry aneurysm):
This type resembles a round, blood-filled sac, similar to a berry hanging from a vine. It typically develops on arteries at the base of the brain and is the most common form of aneurysm.
Fusiform aneurysm:
This type causes bulging on all sides of the artery.
Mycotic aneurysm:
This type is caused by an infection that weakens the arterial wall. When an infection affects the brain's arteries, it can lead to the formation of an aneurysm.
Most unruptured brain aneurysms do not cause symptoms, particularly when they are small. They are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests for unrelated conditions.
However, a ruptured aneurysm is a severe condition that typically presents with a sudden and intense headache. Additionally, an unruptured aneurysm that puts pressure on brain tissue or nerves may cause pain and other symptoms.
Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm include:
Unexpected , Severe headache
Nausea and vomiting.
Stiff neck.
Blurred or double vision.
Sensitivity to light.
Seizures.
Drooping eyelid.
Loss of consciousness.
Confusion.
In some cases, an aneurysm may leak a small amount of blood before experiencing a more severe rupture. These leaks can occur days or weeks prior to the rupture.
Symptoms of a leaking brain aneurysm may include:
Sudden and extremely severe headache lasting several days to two weeks.
Unruptured brain aneurysms may not cause any symptoms, especially when they are small. However, larger unruptured aneurysms may exert pressure on brain tissues and nerves.
Symptoms of unruptured brain aneurysm:
Pain above and behind one eye.
Dilated pupil.
Change in vision or double vision.
Numbness on one side of the face.
If you experience a sudden, extremely severe headache or if someone complains of such a headache, loses consciousness, or has a seizure, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. In these cases, call 911 or your local emergency number.