Brain Aneurysm Overview

A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm, is a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain. It often resembles a berry hanging on a stem. Brain aneurysms are thought to form and grow due to the pressure of blood flowing through a weak area of the blood vessel's wall, leading to an increase in the aneurysm's size. If a brain aneurysm leaks or ruptures, it can cause bleeding in the brain, which is known as a hemorrhagic stroke.

Types of Brain Aneurysms:

1. Saccular Aneurysm (Berry Aneurysm): This type looks like a round, blood-filled sac that protrudes from the main artery or one of its branches, often forming at the base of the brain. It is the most common type of brain aneurysm.
2. Fusiform Aneurysm: This aneurysm causes bulging on all sides of the artery.
3. Mycotic Aneurysm: Caused by an infection weakening the artery wall, leading to an aneurysm formation.

Symptoms:

Unruptured brain aneurysms typically do not cause symptoms, especially if they are small. They are often discovered incidentally during imaging tests done for other reasons. However, a ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency and can cause a sudden, severe headache, described as the worst headache ever experienced. Other symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm may include nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light, seizure, drooping eyelid, loss of consciousness, or confusion.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Brain aneurysms are caused by thinning artery walls, particularly at forks or branches in the arteries where they are weaker. Although they can occur at any age, they are more common in adults between ages 30 and 60, and more prevalent in women than in men. Risk factors include cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, drug use (especially cocaine), heavy alcohol use, inherited connective tissue disorders, polycystic kidney disease, narrow aorta, brain arteriovenous malformation (AVM), and a family history of brain aneurysm.

Complications:

A ruptured brain aneurysm can lead to severe complications, such as re-bleeding, narrowed blood vessels in the brain (vasospasm), hydrocephalus (a buildup of fluid within the brain), and changes in sodium levels, which may cause brain cell swelling and damage.

Prevention:

While many brain aneurysms cannot be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can lower the risk. Quitting smoking, managing high blood pressure, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and drug use are essential preventive measures.

If you suspect a ruptured aneurysm, seek immediate medical attention, as it requires prompt medical treatment. If an unruptured aneurysm is detected, discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.