A cerebral or brain aneurysm occurs when a weak area in a blood vessel enlarges, often described as the ballooning of the vessel. It is estimated that about 1.5 to 5 percent of the general population may have or develop a cerebral aneurysm.
Symptoms of cerebral aneurysms vary depending on whether the aneurysm is unruptured or has ruptured.
Unruptured aneurysms are typically asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally during tests for unrelated medical conditions. However, in some cases, an unruptured aneurysm can cause symptoms by pressing on areas of the brain. These symptoms may include severe headaches, changes in speech, blurred vision, and neck pain, depending on the location and severity of the aneurysm.
Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm can occur suddenly and may include:
- Neck pain
- Sudden, severe headache that differs from past headaches
- Sensitivity to light
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness or fainting
The onset of symptoms from a ruptured aneurysm is often described as a sudden, excruciating headache, akin to being struck on the head, resulting in a binding pain unlike any previous experiences. Other symptoms may include enlarged pupils, confusion, and more.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.