What is a Brain Aneurysm?

• A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain
• It occurs when a weakened area in the wall of an artery fills with blood
• If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to a life-threatening type of stroke called a subarachnoid hemorrhage

Types of Brain Aneurysms

Saccular Aneurysm

• Also known as a “berry” aneurysm
• Most common type, with a round shape that forms on a stem

Fusiform Aneurysm

• Bulges on all sides of a blood vessel
• Less common and usually involves larger arteries

Mycotic Aneurysm

• Caused by an infection in the artery wall

Causes of Brain Aneurysm

• Congenital weakness in artery walls
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Smoking
• Head trauma or injury
• Drug use (especially cocaine or amphetamines)
• Blood vessel infections
• Certain genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease or connective tissue disorders
• Age (more common after age 40)
• Family history of aneurysms

Risk Factors

• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Family history
• Being female (women are more prone than men)
• Older age
• Certain inherited conditions

Symptoms of an Unruptured Brain Aneurysm

• Often has no symptoms
• When symptoms occur, they may include:
  • Headaches
  • Vision problems
  • Eye pain or drooping eyelid
  • Dilated pupil
  • Numbness or weakness on one side of the face

Symptoms of a Ruptured Brain Aneurysm

• Sudden, severe headache (often described as “the worst headache of my life”)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Blurred or double vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion or trouble speaking

How is a Brain Aneurysm Diagnosed?

• CT scan (Computed Tomography) – First step to detect bleeding in the brain
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – Shows more detailed images of the brain and blood vessels
• Cerebral angiography – Involves inserting a catheter and using dye to see the brain’s blood vessels
• Lumbar puncture – May be done if bleeding is suspected but not seen on imaging

Treatment Options for Brain Aneurysm

For Unruptured Aneurysms

• Monitoring with regular scans if the aneurysm is small and not causing symptoms
• Lifestyle changes (e.g., quitting smoking, managing blood pressure)
• Surgical clipping – A metal clip is placed on the aneurysm to stop blood flow
• Endovascular coiling – A catheter is used to insert coils into the aneurysm to block it from the inside

For Ruptured Aneurysms

• Emergency treatment is required
• Surgical clipping or endovascular coiling to prevent further bleeding
• Medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications like seizures or vasospasm
• Hospital monitoring and intensive care

Complications of Brain Aneurysm

• Stroke
• Permanent brain damage
• Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain)
• Vasospasm (narrowing of blood vessels, reducing blood flow)
• Re-bleeding
• Death in severe cases

Recovery and Outlook

• Recovery depends on the size, location, and severity of the aneurysm
• Some people recover completely, especially if treated before rupture
• Others may have long-term effects like memory problems, speech difficulties, or physical disabilities

How to Prevent a Brain Aneurysm

• Quit smoking
• Control blood pressure
• Limit alcohol intake
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes
• Regular check-ups if you have a family history or genetic risk

When to See a Doctor

• Sudden, intense headache
• Vision changes or eye pain
• Numbness or weakness on one side
• Loss of consciousness or confusion
• Family history of brain aneurysms
• Persistent neurological symptoms