A brain aneurysm is a rare but serious medical condition that occurs when the wall of a blood vessel in the brain weakens and bulges out, forming a balloon-like sac.

If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause bleeding in the brain or a stroke, which can result in disability or even death.

Although brain aneurysms can happen to anyone, some people are at higher risk than others. Factors that increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm include:.

• Age (over 40 years old)
• Family history of brain aneurysms
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Drug abuse, particularly cocaine use
• Previous brain aneurysm or stroke
• Brain injury or infection

Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm

Many people who have a brain aneurysm have no symptoms, and the aneurysm is discovered during imaging tests for another condition. However, for some people, an unruptured brain aneurysm can cause the following symptoms:.

• Headache
• Pain behind or above the eye
• Blurred or double vision
• Weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body
• Dilated pupils
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Seizure

If an aneurysm ruptures, it can cause a sudden, intense headache, often described as the worst headache of one’s life. Other symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm may include:.

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck or neck pain
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Confusion or disorientation
• Loss of consciousness

Diagnosis of a Brain Aneurysm

If you have symptoms of a brain aneurysm, or if you are at high risk of developing one, your doctor may recommend imaging tests to look for an aneurysm. The most common tests used to diagnose a brain aneurysm include:.

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• Computed tomography (CT) scan. This test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain. If an aneurysm has ruptured, a CT scan can help determine the location and severity of bleeding in the brain.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test uses magnet and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the brain. An MRI can be used to detect an unruptured aneurysm or to determine if bleeding has occurred in the brain.
• Cerebral angiography. This test involves injecting a dye into a blood vessel in the arm or leg and using X-rays to capture images of the blood vessels in the brain. Cerebral angiography is the most accurate test for diagnosing a brain aneurysm, but it is also the most invasive.

Treatment for a Brain Aneurysm

The treatment for a brain aneurysm depends on its size, location, and whether it has ruptured. If an aneurysm is small and has not ruptured, your doctor may recommend careful monitoring and regular imaging tests to check its growth.

If an aneurysm is larger or poses a significant risk of rupturing, your doctor may recommend one of the following treatments:.

• Endovascular coiling. This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin and guided up to the aneurysm. A tiny coil is then inserted through the catheter and into the aneurysm to prevent blood flow and reduce the risk of rupture.
• Open brain surgery. In some cases, a brain aneurysm can be clipped off surgically. During this procedure, a portion of the skull is removed, and a metal clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to stop blood flow.

Preventing a Brain Aneurysm

Although it is not always possible to prevent a brain aneurysm, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

• Quit smoking. Smoking is a major risk factor for brain aneurysms, so quitting smoking can significantly reduce your risk.
• Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure can weaken the walls of blood vessels and increase the risk of aneurysms.
• Avoid drug abuse. Cocaine and other drugs can increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm.
• Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can help keep your blood vessels healthy and reduce your risk of aneurysms and other cardiovascular problems.
• Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help prevent high blood pressure and other risk factors for aneurysms.

When to See a Doctor

If you have symptoms of a brain aneurysm, do not wait to seek medical attention. An unruptured aneurysm can be treated and potentially cured if caught early, so it is important to seek diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

If you or someone you know experiences sudden, severe headache or other symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.