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Brain Aneurysm

Diseases and Conditions Brain Aneurysm
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel within the brain. Imagine it as a berry hanging on a stem, but instead of a fruit, it’s a weakened area of the vessel wall. These aneurysms can form and grow due to blood flow exerting pressure on the vulnerable vessel wall. If an aneurysm leaks or ruptures, it leads to bleeding in the brain, which is a hemorrhagic stroke. Most brain aneurysms are not serious, especially if they remain small and don’t rupture. However, a ruptured aneurysm is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Types of Brain Aneurysm

  1. Saccular Aneurysm (Berry Aneurysm):

    • Looks like a berry hanging from a vine.
    • A round, blood-filled sac protruding from the main artery or one of its branches.
    • Commonly forms on arteries at the base of the brain.

  2. Fusiform Aneurysm:

    • Causes bulging on all sides of the artery.
    • Less common than saccular aneurysms.

  3. Mycotic Aneurysm:

    • Caused by an infection affecting the arteries in the brain.
    • Infection weakens the artery wall, leading to aneurysm formation.

Causes of Brain Aneurysm

Thinning or weakening of the vessel walls leads to aneurysm development.

Risk Factors of Brain Aneurysm

  • Risk factors include:
    • Aging
    • Atherosclerosis
    • High blood pressure
    • Smoking
    • Alcohol and drug abuse
    • Family history
    • Previous brain aneurysm
    • Head injury
    • Blood infection

Symptoms of Brain Aneurysm

Most unruptured brain aneurysms do not cause symptoms, especially if they are small. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
1. Sudden, Severe Headache: Often described as the worst headache ever experienced. May be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
2. Other Symptoms of a Ruptured Aneurysm: Stiff neck Blurred or double vision Sensitivity to light Seizures Drooping eyelid Loss of consciousness Confusion

Preventions of Brain Aneurysm

  • Screening tests if there’s a family history of aneurysms.
  • Maintain normal blood pressure.
  • Regular checkups if you’ve had an aneurysm before.

Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysm

  • MRI scan for unruptured aneurysms.
  • CT scan for ruptured aneurysms.
  • Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to detect bleeding if not seen on CT scan.

Treatment for Brain Aneurysm

  • Surgery for both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms.
  • Medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
  • Surgical clipping or endovascular coiling to treat aneurysms.

When to seek medical attention ?

  • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
    • Sudden, severe headache
    • Any of the other symptoms mentioned above
    • Loss of consciousness