A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral aneurysm, occurs when a blood vessel in the brain balloons outwards due to a weak spot in the wall. Think of it as a weakened section in a balloon, causing it to bulge like a small bubble.
If an aneurysm enlarges or ruptures, the consequences can be severe. Much like a bursting balloon, a ruptured aneurysm can lead to life-threatening bleeding in the brain, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Providers often detect brain aneurysms before they rupture, enabling timely intervention to prevent complications. Recognizing the signs of a brain aneurysm and understanding preventive measures is crucial.
Aneurysms in the brain typically emerge over time due to varied factors such as elevated blood pressure, the natural process of aging, genetic predispositions or previous trauma.
When a brain aneurysm experiences leakage or ruptures, it results in a brain hemorrhage, also known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage. This occurrence resembles a stroke, wherein blood pours into the space between the skull and the brain's protective layer.
Although brain aneurysms are relatively common, they typically remain asymptomatic and pose no immediate threat. In fact, most cases are incidentally detected during routine screenings for unrelated health issues.
Brain aneurysms often develop without noticeable symptoms until they reach a certain size or undergo leakage or rupture.
Signs indicating a leaking or ruptured brain aneurysm include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, particularly a sudden and severe headache, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Prompt intervention can significantly impact the treatment and recovery outcomes associated with brain aneurysms.
When diagnosing a brain aneurysm, your provider will perform a thorough physical examination and discuss your symptoms. They'll ask about any headaches, seizures or other relevant symptoms you've experienced, as well as potential risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking habits or a family history of aneurysms.
To obtain detailed images of your brain that may reveal evidence of a bulge or bleeding, your doctor may employ imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI. These diagnostic tools play a crucial role in identifying and assessing the presence of a brain aneurysm, allowing effective treatment planning.
When you’re diagnosed with a brain aneurysm, your doctor will initiate treatment to prevent its rupture or further enlargement, considering factors such as the aneurysm's location, size and your overall health.
For unruptured brain aneurysms detected through tests or scans, two primary treatment options are typically considered:
If repair or surgery is necessary, your care team may adopt one of these approaches:
Following treatment, particularly in cases of a ruptured aneurysm, rehabilitation may be essential to help you regain lost function and recover from any neurological deficits resulting from the aneurysm or its treatment. Rehabilitation measures may include physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy, tailored to the individual's needs for recovery.
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