Aneurysm is the medical term for a bulging artery. If that artery happens to be in your brain, it is known as a cerebral aneurysm, or a brain aneurysm. This bulging weak spot is like a balloon which can rupture. Having a cerebral aneurysm is fairly common, but if it does rupture, this is a medical emergency that needs immediate medical care. What are the early signs of a cerebral aneurysm?
Symptoms of an Unruptured Cerebral Aneurysm
Small aneurysms in the brain are usually not symptomatic, but if they become larger, there may be several signs as they press on tissue and nerves to the eye.
As they grow larger, you may notice the following signs:
- Pain above and behind one of your eyes
- Numbness/weakness
- Drooping eyelid
- Paralysis on one side of your face
- Vision changes or double vision
- Dilated pupils
It can also cause mild chronic headaches.
If you are experiencing any combination of these symptoms, contact Boev Clinic for an evaluation. A physician will do tests to determine the size, location of the bulge, and whether treatment is needed.
Early Signs of a Ruptured Cerebral Aneurysm
Once an aneurysm begins to leak or ruptures into the brain, certain signs become evident. Blood begins to fill into the brain and as time passes can increase the likelihood of death or disability.
Serious signs of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm include:
- Severe headache known as a thunderclap headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
These symptoms require a call to 911 to quickly get access to medical help. Don’t ask someone to drive you to the hospital.
What Causes Brain Aneurysms?
Some risk factors are genetic and others are due to lifestyle choices, age, and certain medical conditions.
The following factors can all contribute to a brain aneurysm:
- Family history
- Smoking
- Alcohol or drug abuse, especially cocaine use
- High blood pressure
- Aging (older than 70)
- Being a woman
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- An infection in the blood vessel
- Binge drinking
- Head injury
Schedule a Cerebral Aneurysm Consultation in Rochester & Canandigua, NY
Researchers believe high blood pressure is the most common cause of a rupture. Don’t wait. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm, it is best to call 911 for assistance. Contact Boev Clinic at (585) 342-2638 to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing the signs of an unruptured brain aneurysm. We have clinics in Rochester and Canandaigua.
Sources: Warning Signs & Symptoms – Brain Aneurysm Foundation (bafound.org)
Trinity Hoblit | Trinity Love Hoblit Foundation | Fernandina Beach
Brain Aneurysm: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (clevelandclinic.org)