A brain aneurysm is a weakened, bulging area in the wall of a brain blood vessel that can potentially rupture. The most critical warning sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm is an extremely severe headache, often described as the worst headache of one’s life.
If you or a loved one experiences this type of intense headache, loses consciousness, or has a seizure without a history of seizure disorders, contact emergency services immediately. However, brain aneurysms can present with many other warning signs, and sometimes they show no symptoms at all until they become dangerous.
Brain Aneurysm Diagnosis and Treatment in North Carolina
At Neurosciences & Spine Center, our neurologists and neurosurgeons have years of experience in spotting the often subtle signs of brain aneurysms and developing effective treatment strategies for patients throughout the state. Our comprehensive approach combines advanced diagnostic imaging with personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique situation.
How Are Unruptured Brain Aneurysms Discovered?
Not all brain aneurysms have ruptured. In fact, many unruptured aneurysms remain completely asymptomatic for years. These silent aneurysms are frequently discovered incidentally during medical imaging performed for unrelated conditions, such as CT scans or MRIs ordered for headaches, head injuries, or other neurological concerns.
When unruptured aneurysms do produce symptoms, patients may experience:
- Persistent headaches (differing from their normal headache patterns)
- Double vision, loss of peripheral vision, or pupil dilation
- Pain above or behind the eye
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the face
- Difficulty speaking
- Balance problems
- Hearing a pulsing sound in the ears
- Neck pain and stiffness
These symptoms usually develop gradually and may be mistaken for other, less severe conditions. When unexplained neurological symptoms persist, professional evaluation is essential.
Recognizing a Ruptured Brain Aneurysm
A ruptured brain aneurysm occurs when the weakened blood vessel wall finally gives way, causing bleeding into the space surrounding it. This medical emergency typically announces itself with that characteristic thunderclap headache that reaches maximum intensity within seconds and feels unlike any headache the person has experienced before.
Along with severe headaches, loss of consciousness, and seizures in non-epileptic individuals, ruptured aneurysms can cause additional alarming symptoms, including:
- Sudden nausea and vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred or double vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech (similar to stroke symptoms)
- Sudden drop in blood pressure from the internal bleeding, leading to dizziness or fainting
These symptoms typically appear suddenly and worsen rapidly, distinguishing them from the more gradual onset of unruptured aneurysm symptoms.
When Should I Seek Treatment?
If you’re experiencing any combination of the symptoms mentioned above and cannot identify a clear cause — or if your primary care physician suspects you may have a brain aneurysm — it’s time to schedule an appointment with our specialists. Early detection and treatment significantly improve outcomes and can ideally prevent life-threatening ruptures. Contact Neurosciences & Spine Center today to schedule your first appointment at one of our many convenient locations throughout the state.
