Brain Aneurysm Information

According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF), a brain aneurysm is the bulging of a blood vessel in the brain that can rupture and bleed, causing serious brain complications. BrainAneurysm.com reports that nearly one in 15 people in the United States will be diagnosed with a brain aneurysm in their lifetime.

Types

• Unruptured brain aneurysms do not cause health problems, says the Mayo Clinic. Ruptured brain aneurysms can lead to stroke, brain damage and death.

Symptoms

• The most common symptom of a ruptured aneurysm is an extremely sudden, severe headache. The Mayo Clinic reports other symptoms may occur, including: double vision, sensitivity to light, nausea, seizure and loss of consciousness.

Warning

• The Mayo Clinic warns that a ruptured aneurysm constitutes a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Fifty percent of ruptured aneurysms result in death.

Risk Factors

• According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, certain factors can increase the risk of developing a brain aneurysm, including: smoking, high blood pressure, blood infections, high alcohol consumption and head trauma. Those with a family history of brain aneurysm are also more at risk.

Complications

• A ruptured brain aneurysm can cause serious damage to the brain, reports the Mayo Clinic. Complications that may occur include: brain damage, reduced blood flow to the brain, and swelling of the brain.