A brain aneurysm is a serious medical condition that occurs when a weak spot in a blood vessel in the brain bulges out and fills with blood. If left untreated, it can rupture and cause a life-threatening bleed in the brain.

According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, an estimated 6 million people in the United States have an unruptured brain aneurysm, and approximately 30,000 people experience a ruptured brain aneurysm each year. Here’s what you need to know about who is at risk and how to prevent brain aneurysms:.

Who is at risk for brain aneurysms?

Anyone can develop a brain aneurysm, but certain risk factors make it more likely. These include:.

1. Family history of brain aneurysms

If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has had a brain aneurysm, you are more likely to develop one yourself. Some types of brain aneurysms are caused by genetic factors that are inherited.

2. Age and gender

Brain aneurysms are more common in people over the age of 40 and in women. Women are more likely than men to develop brain aneurysms, particularly after menopause.

3. High blood pressure

High blood pressure (hypertension) can weaken blood vessel walls and increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm.

4. Smoking

Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm. People who smoke are also more likely to have a rupture of the aneurysm.

5. Alcohol consumption

Heavy alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm.

6. Polycystic kidney disease

People with polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disorder that causes cysts to form in the kidneys, are at increased risk of developing brain aneurysms.

7. Other medical conditions

Other medical conditions that can increase the risk of developing brain aneurysms include Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, fibromuscular dysplasia, and coarctation of the aorta.

How to prevent brain aneurysms?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent the development of a brain aneurysm, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

1. Control blood pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for developing brain aneurysms. If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to help control it.

2. Quit smoking

If you smoke, quitting can reduce your risk of developing a brain aneurysm. Your doctor can help you find resources to quit smoking.

3. Limit alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol in moderation can help reduce your risk of developing a brain aneurysm. For women, that means no more than one drink per day, and for men, no more than two drinks per day.

4. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help keep your blood vessels healthy and reduce your risk of developing a brain aneurysm. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

5. Eat a healthy diet

A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low in saturated fat and salt can help reduce your risk of developing a brain aneurysm.

6. Manage stress

Stress can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through meditation or yoga, can help reduce your risk.

Conclusion

A brain aneurysm can be a life-threatening condition, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing one. If you have any risk factors for brain aneurysms, talk to your doctor about what you can do to protect yourself.