The ballooning of a blood vessel located in the brain is called a brain aneurysm. It leads to a bulge developing in the blood vessel, and this can rupture or leak in the brain, causing a type of hemorrhagic stroke known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage.
A ruptured brain aneurysm is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care. Brain aneurysms are typically the result of thinning artery walls. They usually form at branches or forks in arteries since these are the weakest parts. They can develop on any part of the brain but typically at the base.
Most people develop brain aneurysms that do not rupture, so they do not lead to any health issues. These types of aneurysms are typically detected while the patient is being tested for some other condition.
Treating a brain aneurysm that has not ruptured might prevent a life-threatening condition from occurring in the future. Each patient's circumstances are unique, so the doctor will advise them on the best way to proceed if an unruptured aneurysm is detected.
The symptoms and signs of a ruptured aneurysm include:
An unruptured aneurysm might not initially have any symptoms, but that usually changes as it grows larger. The warning signs that indicate a person has developed an unruptured brain aneurysm include:
Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention if:
Patients who experience the symptoms of an aneurysm will be given several tests to determine if there has been bleeding into the brain and its surrounding tissues or if they have had a different type of stroke.
If there is bleeding, appropriate treatments will be administered. The tests used to diagnose aneurysms include:
A flow diverter, endovascular coiling or surgical clipping can be used to close off an unruptured aneurysm and inhibit it from leaking or rupturing in the future. However, for some patients, the risk of these procedures might outweigh their benefits.
The threat the aneurysm poses to the patient's health will be evaluated by a neurologist and an interventional neuroradiologist or neurosurgeon to determine if treatment is appropriate.
A brain aneurysm can potentially be life-threatening, so head to our clinic for evaluation if you have any of the symptoms.
Request an appointment here: https://www.brainandspineni.com or call Brain and Spine Neuroscience Institute at (813) 751-2029 for an appointment in our Palm Harbor office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Google Reviews.
If you have been referred to a brain surgeon, you may feel nervous or confused about what to expect during the consultation. This initial meeting is essential, as it sets the expectations and goals for your treatment journey. Knowing what this medical professional does and what to expect prior to the first appointment can provide…
Brain aneurysms are bulges that develop in the blood vessels in and around the brain. Though most do not cause harm, some can become enlarged, and the consequences of a rupture are severe, even life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to understand your risk of a brain aneurysm, symptoms to watch for, and steps you can…
Navigating neurological challenges requires professional treatment from a neurosurgeon, personal perseverance, and healthy coping strategies. If you have been diagnosed with a neurological issue or are caring for a loved one who has, there is help available. Here are some helpful insights about the intricacies of the human brain and the comprehensive care needed to…
A spine surgeon can help treat and manage a wide range of conditions affecting the spine. Thus, if you have been experiencing back pain or other symptoms that may indicate an issue with the spine, such as foot and leg tingling, it is a good idea to book a consultation. Learn when to consult a…