8 Min Read
A brain aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a weakened area of a blood vessel in the brain begins to bulge or balloon. While most brain aneurysms are small and asymptomatic, if one ruptures, it can lead to catastrophic consequences, including a hemorrhagic stroke. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial, and Manipal Hospital Kharadi offers advanced diagnostic tools and expert care to manage and treat brain aneurysms.
Synopsis
- What is a Brain Aneurysm?
- Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm
- Types of Brain Aneurysms
- What Causes Brain Aneurysms?
- Risk Factors for Aneurysm Rupture
- Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysms
- Treatment for Brain Aneurysms at Manipal Hospital Kharadi
- Prevention of Brain Aneurysms
- Prognosis for Brain Aneurysms
- Conclusion
What is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain (cerebral) aneurysm, also known as an intracranial aneurysm, refers to the weakening and subsequent bulging of a blood vessel in the brain. The bulging forms a pouch or sac that can grow over time. Most brain aneurysms occur in the arteries at the base of the brain and are typically referred to as saccular or berry aneurysms because of their shape.
While many brain aneurysms are asymptomatic, they can pose a serious risk if they rupture. When a brain (cerebral) aneurysm ruptures, it releases blood into the space around the brain, causing a subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), which can lead to a stroke, severe neurological impairment, or even death.
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, our expert team of neurosurgeons uses the latest technology for early detection and treatment to prevent such complications.
Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm
Here are the major brain aneurysm symptoms:
1. Unruptured Aneurysm Symptoms
Most cerebral aneurysms do not show symptoms until they rupture. However, larger aneurysms or those that press against surrounding brain tissue or nerves may cause symptoms such as:
-
Headaches: These may be persistent and often worsen over time. They can be dull or severe, and some people report that the headache is unlike anything they’ve had before.
-
Vision Problems: Aneurysms can affect the nerves that control eye movement, leading to blurred or double vision, or even changes in pupil size.
-
Pain Behind or Around the Eye: If an aneurysm is located near the eye, it may cause localized pain around the eye or face.
-
Seizures: Though less common, some people may experience seizures due to abnormal brain activity caused by the aneurysm pressing against nearby brain areas.
-
Numbness or Weakness: People may experience weakness or numbness in their face, especially on one side, depending on the aneurysm’s location.
2. Ruptured Aneurysm Symptoms
The rupture of a brain aneurysm is a medical emergency. The symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm develop suddenly and can be devastating. These include:
-
Sudden and Severe Headache: Often described as the worst headache one has ever experienced, this is the hallmark symptom of a ruptured aneurysm. It usually occurs suddenly and can be excruciating.
-
Nausea and Vomiting: The intense pain from the headache, combined with increased pressure in the brain, often leads to nausea and vomiting.
-
Neck Stiffness: The bleeding around the brain can irritate the meninges (the protective layers around the brain), leading to stiffness in the neck.
-
Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): This is another common symptom due to irritation of the brain tissue from the blood.
-
Seizures: The pressure on the brain can lead to seizures, which are sometimes the first sign of a ruptured aneurysm.
-
Loss of Consciousness or Fainting: Some individuals may lose consciousness or experience a drop in blood pressure, which could lead to fainting.
-
Weakness or Numbness: Typically, this affects one side of the body, and if the aneurysm affects critical areas of the brain, it can lead to paralysis.
A sentinel headache may sometimes precede a rupture, where a person experiences a sudden, severe headache, which can act as a warning that a rupture is imminent.
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, especially a sudden severe headache, it is critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Manipal Hospital Kharadi is equipped with specialized teams to handle these emergencies with promptness and precision.
Types of Brain Aneurysms
Brain aneurysms vary in type based on their shape, size, and location. The main types of brain aneurysms include:
1. Saccular Aneurysms (Berry Aneurysms)
This is the most common type of brain aneurysm. It’s shaped like a berry, with a small neck and a rounded sac. These are typically found at arterial bifurcations, where blood vessels split. They are most common in the arteries at the base of the brain.
2. Fusiform Aneurysms
These are less common and are shaped like a spindle. They affect the entire circumference of the artery, making them harder to treat. Fusiform aneurysms usually occur in larger arteries like the basilar artery at the back of the brain.
3. Dissecting Aneurysms
A dissecting aneurysm occurs when there is a tear in the wall of the artery, causing blood to flow between the layers of the arterial wall. This is less common than other aneurysm types but can lead to severe complications.
4. Mycotic Aneurysms
These aneurysms are caused by an infection (mycosis) of the artery. Bacterial infections can lead to weakened blood vessels that result in aneurysms. Though rare, mycotic aneurysms are dangerous and require treatment of the underlying infection
What Causes Brain Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms form when a section of the blood vessel wall becomes weakened or damaged. This can happen due to several factors:
-
Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic conditions such as polycystic kidney disease, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or Marfan syndrome can make the walls of blood vessels more fragile, increasing the risk of aneurysms.
-
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Chronic high blood pressure puts extra stress on the blood vessel walls, making them more likely to rupture.
-
Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaque in the arteries can lead to the narrowing and weakening of the blood vessels, which increases the risk of aneurysms.
-
Smoking: Smoking accelerates the breakdown of arterial walls and contributes to aneurysm formation.
-
Drug Use: Cocaine and other stimulant drugs can cause rapid increases in blood pressure, leading to the formation or rupture of an aneurysm.
Risk Factors for Aneurysm Rupture
Not all aneurysms rupture, but certain factors increase the likelihood:
-
Size of the Aneurysm: Larger aneurysms are more likely to rupture.
-
Location: Aneurysms located in certain areas of the brain (like the circle of Willis) are more prone to rupture.
-
High Blood Pressure: Hypertension can increase the risk of rupture by putting additional pressure on the aneurysm.
-
Recent Trauma or Straining: Activities that increase blood pressure, such as heavy lifting or intense emotional stress, may trigger rupture.
Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysms
To diagnose a brain aneurysm, doctors rely on several imaging techniques:
-
CT Scan: This is often the first diagnostic test used when a ruptured aneurysm is suspected, as it can quickly detect bleeding in the brain.
-
MRI and MRA: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of the brain, while magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) helps visualize the blood vessels in the brain.
-
Cerebral Angiography: This test involves threading a catheter through the arteries to inject a contrast dye, providing detailed images of the brain’s blood vessels.
-
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): If there’s suspicion of bleeding in the brain but a CT scan is inconclusive, a lumbar puncture can help detect blood in the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain.
Treatment for Brain Aneurysms at Manipal Hospital Kharadi
Treatment of aneurysm in brain depends on the size, type, and location of the aneurysm, as well as whether it has ruptured. The main treatment options include:
1. Surgical Clipping
This involves placing a small metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to stop blood flow into the sac. It’s most commonly used for saccular aneurysms and is effective in preventing rupture.
2. Endovascular Coiling
A less invasive procedure than clipping, coiling involves inserting tiny platinum coils into the aneurysm through a catheter. The coils block the blood flow into the aneurysm, causing it to clot and seal off.
3. Flow Diversion
For larger or complex aneurysms, a flow diversion device (stent) may be placed in the artery to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm, promoting healing.
4. Observation
In some cases, if the aneurysm is small and unruptured, doctors may recommend a "watchful waiting" approach, monitoring the aneurysm over time with regular imaging to detect any changes.
At Manipal Hospital Kharadi, our expert team uses the latest minimally invasive techniques and personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient.
Prevention of Brain Aneurysms
While brain aneurysms cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing one:
-
Control Blood Pressure: Keeping blood pressure in check with medication and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the strain on blood vessels.
-
Quit Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates aneurysm formation.
-
Avoid Drug Use: Refraining from using illicit drugs like cocaine can help prevent sudden increases in blood pressure.
Prognosis for Brain Aneurysms
The prognosis for brain aneurysms depends on the aneurysm’s size, location, and whether it has ruptured. With early detection and treatment at Manipal Hospital Kharadi, many patients can recover from an aneurysm rupture. Timely intervention is key to a better outcome, and patients who receive prompt treatment often go on to lead normal, healthy lives
Conclusion
A cerebral brain aneurysm is a serious condition, but with early detection and modern treatments available at Manipal Hospital Kharadi, the risks can be managed. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a brain aneurysm or have concerns about your risk, don't hesitate to consult with our team of experts. Our commitment to cutting-edge care and patient-centred treatment ensures that we’re always here to support your health and well-being.
FAQ's
A brain aneurysm is a bulging of a blood vessel in the brain due to a weakness in the vessel wall. If ruptured, it can cause a stroke. We use advanced imaging for early detection and treatment.
Symptoms include sudden, severe headaches, nausea, vision problems, or loss of consciousness. If any of these occur, seek immediate care at Manipal Hospital Kharadi.
High blood pressure, smoking, genetics, and atherosclerosis are common causes. We manage these risk factors through regular check-ups.
We use CT scans, MRI, and angiography at Manipal Hospital Kharadi to diagnose brain aneurysms and plan appropriate treatment.
Prevention includes controlling blood pressure, quitting smoking, and regular check-ups. Manipal Hospital Kharadi offers personalized health advice to reduce your risk.
Treatment options include surgical clipping, endovascular coiling, and flow diversion. Manipal Hospital Kharadi provides advanced, minimally invasive techniques for optimal care.
If someone has sudden severe headaches, vomiting, or loss of consciousness, it’s a medical emergency. Rush them to Manipal Hospital Kharadi immediately.
With early diagnosis and treatment at Manipal Hospital Kharadi, many patients recover well. Timely intervention is critical for better outcomes.
Share this article on:
15.png)
