Symptoms of Brain Aneurysms

Brain is one of the most vital parts of a human body. It is associated with perception, cognition, information processing, intelligence and emotion. It is a complex organ that performs several intricate functions that help in the overall well-being of the body. Brain aneurysm, also known as cerebral aneurysm, is a cerebrovascular disorder, which results in weakness in the wall of a cerebral artery or vein causing its dilation. Generally, it affects the arteries at the base of the brain. It is discovered when it ruptures causing bleeding into the brain or a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Such a hemorrhage from a ruptured brain aneurysm can lead to stroke, brain damage or even death. To detect this brain disorder in advance and seek immediate treatment, it is important to understand the symptoms of brain aneurysms.

Symptoms of Brain Aneurysms

One of the most common symptoms of brain aneurysms is severe headache. Pain in the neck and above and behind the eyes is among the other symptoms of cerebral aneurysms. A person suffering from brain aneurysms experiences blurred vision and sensitivity to light. He/she experiences a loss of sensation and difficulty in perception.

In case of an unruptured brain aneurysm, a person exhibits no or very little symptoms of aneurysms before the aneurysm ruptures. In some cases, people experience defective vision, problems in perception, thinking and processing information and difficulties with speech. They show sudden changes in behavior, decreased concentration levels and have difficulty in remembering things.

Ruptured cerebral aneurysm has serious implications. Its symptoms must be well understood so that it can be accurately diagnosed. In case of ruptured cerebral aneurysms, a person experiences nausea and vomiting, a stiff neck, blurred vision and dilated pupils, accompanied by pain behind the eyes.

Inherited disorders or family history of the disorder are known to cause brain aneurysms. Alcoholism, smoking and consumption of oral contraceptives are other causes of this disorder. Cerebral aneurysm may result from severe head injuries. Chances of getting brain aneurysms are higher in women as compared to men. About 3-5% of the population of the United States is affected by brain aneurysms.

There is no conclusive finding as to what causes brain aneurysms. Researchers think that aneurysms are associated with the lack of a muscular layer that forms a part of a blood vessel. Aneurysms can cause brain stroke or hemorrhage. In severe cases, it can result in instant death. Surgery can cure aneurysms. It is performed in order to avoid bleeding into the brain. Emergency treatment includes reducing the pressure exerted by the cranium on the brain tissue and restoring respiration.

Brain aneurysm is a life-threatening disorder that can prove fatal. But an early diagnosis of its symptoms and immediate treatment can save a life.