Cerebral Aneurysms (Brain Aneurysms)
A cerebral aneurysm, also called a brain aneurysm, is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain that causes the vessel to bulge or balloon outward. Some aneurysms may remain small and unchanged, while others may grow, become symptomatic, or rupture.
A ruptured brain aneurysm can cause a serious condition called a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which occurs when bleeding develops in the space surrounding the brain. Evaluation and diagnosis help determine the most appropriate management approach based on the characteristics of the aneurysm and the individual patient.
The impact of a cerebral aneurysm depends on factors such as its size, location, shape, whether it has ruptured, and the patient’s overall health history.
Common Symptoms
Many unruptured cerebral aneurysms do not cause symptoms and may be discovered incidentally during imaging performed for another reason.
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
-
Headaches
-
Pain above or behind the eye
-
Vision changes or double vision
-
Difficulty moving the eye
-
Numbness, weakness, or other neurological changes affecting areas controlled by the affected nerves or brain regions
-
Changes in speech or coordination
A ruptured cerebral aneurysm is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include:
-
Sudden, severe headache often described as the “worst headache of life”
-
Nausea and vomiting
-
Neck stiffness
-
Sensitivity to light
-
Loss of consciousness
-
Seizures
-
Confusion or changes in alertness
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing a cerebral aneurysm, including:
-
High blood pressure
-
Smoking
-
Family history of brain aneurysms
-
Certain inherited conditions that affect blood vessels or connective tissue
-
Age-related changes in blood vessels
-
Previous history of an aneurysm
-
Certain blood vessel abnormalities or conditions affecting the arteries
How Can it Be Treated?
Treatment options for cerebral aneurysms vary depending on factors such as aneurysm size, location, growth, symptoms, rupture risk, and overall health.
Treatment approaches may include:
-
Monitoring and Observation: Some unruptured aneurysms may be monitored with follow-up imaging to evaluate for changes over time.
-
Surgical Clipping: A neurosurgical procedure in which a small clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to prevent blood flow into the weakened area.
-
Endovascular Treatment: Minimally invasive procedures performed through blood vessels that may include techniques such as coil embolization or the placement of specialized devices to help reduce blood flow into the aneurysm.
-
Treatment of Ruptured Aneurysms: Ruptured aneurysms require emergency medical care to address bleeding and reduce the risk of further complications.
When to Seek Evaluation
A medical evaluation may be appropriate for individuals who have symptoms concerning for a cerebral aneurysm or who have been diagnosed with an aneurysm through imaging.
Emergency medical evaluation is needed for symptoms such as:
-
Sudden, severe headache
-
Loss of consciousness
-
Seizures
-
New neurological changes, including weakness, numbness, speech difficulties, or confusion
A thorough evaluation can help identify the cause of symptoms and determine appropriate management options based on each patient’s individual condition.