Brain Aneurysm
A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm, is a localized bulge or swelling in a blood vessel within the brain. If the aneurysm ruptures or leaks, it results in bleeding within the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Our neurologists and neurosurgeons are highly trained with many years of experience in treating brain aneurysms at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center.
Characteristics and How They Form
Experts theorize that brain aneurysms develop and enlarge due to the pressure exerted by blood flowing through the blood vessel on a weakened section of the vessel wall. This pressure can lead to the expansion of the brain aneurysm, sometimes resulting in a leak or rupture.
Typically, a ruptured brain aneurysm occurs in the area between the brain and the delicate tissues that cover it. This type of hemorrhagic stroke is termed a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Occasionally, an aneurysm might release a small amount of blood, often preceding a more substantial rupture. These leaks may occur days or even weeks before a full rupture takes place.
While brain aneurysms are relatively common, most of them are not severe, particularly if they’re small. The majority of brain aneurysms do not rupture or produce symptoms or complications. Frequently, aneurysms are discovered incidentally during tests conducted for other medical reasons.
However, a ruptured aneurysm is a grave and urgent medical situation that requires immediate intervention. Treating an unruptured brain aneurysm can potentially prevent a rupture in the future. Talk to your healthcare provider to thoroughly comprehend the most suitable options tailored to your individual needs.
Types of Brain Aneurysms
There are three main versions of brain aneurysms:
Saccular Aneurysm
Also known as a berry aneurysm. This type of aneurysm looks like a berry hanging from a vine. It’s a round, blood-filled sac that protrudes from the main artery or one of its branches. It usually forms on arteries at the base of the brain. A berry aneurysm is the most common type of aneurysm.
Fusiform Aneurysm
This type of aneurysm causes bulging on all sides of the artery.
Mycotic Aneurysm
This type of aneurysm is caused by an infection. When an infection affects the arteries in the brain, it can weaken the artery wall. This can cause an aneurysm to form.
Recognizing Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm
The majority of unruptured brain aneurysms do not exhibit symptoms, particularly if they’re small. Such instances are especially common when these aneurysms are discovered incidentally during imaging tests performed for unrelated conditions.
However, unruptured aneurysms pressing against brain tissue or nerves might cause:
- Pain above and behind one eye
- Pupil dilation
- Changes in vision or double vision
- Numbness on one side of the face
A sudden and severe headache is the hallmark symptom of a ruptured aneurysm. Individuals often describe this headache as the most excruciating one they have ever experienced. (If the aneurysm is leaking rather than fully ruptured, the patient’s headache can persist for several days to a couple of weeks.)
Beyond the severe headache, symptoms associated with a ruptured aneurysm can encompass:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Blurred or double vision
- Light sensitivity
- Seizures
- Drooping eyelid
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden and extremely severe headache. If someone you are with complains of a sudden, severe headache, loses consciousness, or experiences a seizure, contact emergency services.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The skilled surgeons at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center possess expertise in modern treatments and techniques and are adept at diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the brain. They specialize in minimally invasive surgery and endovascular procedures and are experienced in diagnosing and treating disorders and diseases using the newest techniques to relieve pain and return patients to an active lifestyle.
Surgical clipping involves placing a small metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to prevent blood flow into the weakened area, while endovascular coiling uses platinum coils inserted through a catheter to seal the aneurysm from within the blood vessel. Our team also utilizes advanced techniques such as flow diverters for complex cases.
Each treatment plan is carefully tailored to the patient’s condition, aneurysm location, and overall health. This ensures the safest and most effective approach to preventing or remedying a rupture and protecting long-term neurological function.
Brain Aneurysm FAQs
Who is most at risk of developing brain aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms are more common in adults over 40, with women being at slightly higher risk than men. Additional risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, family history of aneurysms, and certain genetic conditions. However, they can happen to anyone at any age.
Can brain aneurysms be prevented?
While you cannot completely prevent brain aneurysms, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy blood pressure, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and not using recreational drugs (especially cocaine). Regular exercise and a healthy diet also support overall vascular health.
Can brain aneurysms recur after treatment?
While properly treated aneurysms rarely recur at the same location, patients may develop new aneurysms elsewhere in the brain over time. This is why regular follow-up imaging and monitoring with your neurosurgeon is essential for long-term care.
Book an Appointment Today!
At our North Carolina offices, brain aneurysms are among the most unsettling diagnoses for many patients. Our team at North Carolina Neuroscience & Spine Center is here to put you at ease and help you decide on the treatment plan that’s best for you. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
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