Diciphering The Signs Of A Brain Aneurysm

I wish I knew about brain aneurysms before mine ruptured. I had never even heard of them. The tiny vessels in our brain, when ruptured, can lead to dire consequences. This is what a brain aneurysm is - a bulge that forms in one of the arteries in the brain. The trouble with an aneurysm is that it is often silent, with no warning signs until it ruptures, leading to a hemorrhage in the brain. While it is rare- affecting only 3% of the population- awareness of brain aneurysm symptoms can be the key to seeking medical help before it is too late. Let us discuss the signs that can help detect the presence of an aneurysm and take preventive measures. I wish I had.

A sudden headache that they have never experienced before is how most of the people with an aneurysm describe the onset of symptoms. Often referred to as a "thunderclap headache," it is severe and abrupt, and can last from minutes to hours. Although it affects a small section of the people, headaches and migraines can be signs of a larger problem. If the headache is coupled with double vision or numbness in the face, arms, or legs, it is essential to seek medical help immediately.

Nausea and vomiting can be signs of many medical emergencies, including brain aneurysms, especially when experienced with intense headaches. It is not uncommon for people with an aneurysm to feel excessively nauseous a few days before the rupture happens. If you experience vomiting and dizziness more than your usual patterns, it's time to speak to your doctor.

Seizures are a common symptom of a ruptured aneurysm, wherein the affected person can experience uncontrolled shaking or sudden loss of consciousness. The seizures may last for minutes or up to an hour, and the individual may not remember what happened afterward. If you have any seizures, sudden weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, or difficulty speaking or understanding others, you must see a doctor immediately.

If the aneurysm affects the clarity and agility of your thought and if your cognitive functions seem to be deteriorating, then it is time to seek the advice of a medical specialist. Such decline can be observed in a non-ruptured aneurysm as well. So, memory problems, trouble processing information, and sudden confusion can be deemed as early indicators of the aneurysm.

While aneurysms involving small blood vessels mostly go unnoticed, it can be life-threatening when it does rupture. Much in line, catching the symptoms of a brain aneurysm early on is necessary to prevent rupture and brain damage. This is where awareness of indicators such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and seizures can make a difference. Immediate medical attention is essential when symptoms occur, and potential life-saving measures can be taken with timely medical intervention.