Brain Aneurysm

Brain Aneurysm Diagnosis & Treatment at Mir Neurology

What is a Brain Aneurysm?

A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulging or ballooning area in a blood vessel in the brain caused by a weakened vessel wall. Over time, pressure from blood flow can cause the weakened area to stretch and form an aneurysm. If an aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to dangerous bleeding in the brain, known as a hemorrhagic stroke, which is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Brain aneurysms often develop silently and may not cause symptoms until rupture. At Mir Neurology, we provide expert evaluation, advanced diagnostic imaging, and individualized treatment plans to help detect, manage, and prevent complications associated with brain aneurysms.

Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm

A brain aneurysm often does not show symptoms unless it ruptures. However, some people may experience mild symptoms that could indicate the presence of an aneurysm, including:

Before Rupture

Headaches: A persistent or unusual headache, which may be severe.
Pain above or behind an eye: This may be localized to one side of the face.
Vision problems: Blurred or double vision.
Dilated pupils: Changes in pupil size or vision.
Numbness or weakness: This can affect the face, eyes, or limbs, particularly on one side of the body.
If you notice these symptoms, do not wait, early diagnosis can prevent rupture. Schedule a neurological evaluation at Mir Neurology today.

After Rupture

If a brain aneurysm ruptures, it is considered a medical emergency. The following symptoms are common:

Sudden, severe headache: Often described as the “worst headache of your life.”
Nausea and vomiting: Often accompanied by a sudden headache.
Neck stiffness: Difficulty moving the neck, along with pain.
Loss of consciousness: fainting or a sudden decrease in alertness.
Seizures: Convulsions or abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Vision impairment: Double vision or blurred vision.
Sensory changes: Numbness or weakness in limbs or the face.
Confusion or difficulty speaking: Difficulty understanding speech or expressing oneself.

Causes of Brain Aneurysms

Brain aneurysms can develop for various reasons, and their causes are often linked to factors that weaken blood vessel walls. Some of the most common causes include:

1. High Blood Pressure

Chronic high blood pressure can put stress on blood vessel walls, making them more susceptible to aneurysms.

2. Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)

The buildup of plaque inside arteries can weaken vessel walls and contribute to aneurysm development.

3. Genetic Factors

A family history of brain aneurysms or inherited conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome can increase the risk.

4. Head Trauma

A head injury or trauma to the brain can damage blood vessels, potentially leading to an aneurysm.

5. Age and Gender

Brain aneurysms are more common in adults, especially those over the age of 40, and are more frequent in women than men.

6. Smoking and Drug Use

Smoking and illicit drug use—especially cocaine and other stimulants—significantly increase the risk of aneurysm development and rupture.

7. Infection or Inflammation

Conditions that cause inflammation of blood vessels, such as vasculitis, can also lead to aneurysm formation.

Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysm

At Mir Neurology, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services to detect brain aneurysms, even in individuals who are asymptomatic or at risk. Diagnostic methods include:

1. Imaging Tests

CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan can quickly identify brain aneurysms, especially after rupture. It is often used in emergency settings.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI provides detailed images of the brain and blood vessels, helping to identify smaller aneurysms or those at risk of rupture.
MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography): “MRA may be performed with or without contrast dye to evaluate brain blood vessels.”
CTA (CT Angiography): A CT scan that uses contrast dye to visualize blood vessels and locate aneurysms.

2. Cerebral Angiography

Cerebral angiography is an invasive but highly precise procedure in which a catheter is guided through blood vessels and contrast dye is injected to visualize blood flow in the brain. It is typically used when non‑invasive imaging results are inconclusive.

3. Genetic Testing

Genetic testing may be recommended in selected cases, particularly for individuals with a strong family history of aneurysms or known connective tissue disorders.

Treatment for Brain Aneurysms

Treatment for a brain aneurysm depends on its size, location, and whether it has ruptured. The goal of treatment is to prevent rupture or to manage complications if rupture has occurred.

1. Observation (Unruptured Aneurysms)

In some cases, an aneurysm may be small and not causing any symptoms. In such cases, close monitoring with regular imaging tests may be recommended.
Lifestyle modifications: Managing blood pressure, reducing smoking, and avoiding drug use are essential steps in preventing aneurysm growth.

2. Surgical Interventions

Surgical Clipping: A neurosurgical procedure in which a small clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to stop blood flow and prevent rupture. This is often used for aneurysms near the brain’s surface.
Endovascular Coiling: A minimally invasive technique where coils are inserted into the aneurysm via a catheter, promoting clot formation and sealing the aneurysm from circulation. This approach is often preferred for deep or hard‑to‑reach aneurysms.

3. Emergency Treatment (Ruptured Aneurysms)

Emergency Surgery: If an aneurysm ruptures, emergency surgery may be required to stop the bleeding and repair the blood vessel. This may involve surgical clipping or endovascular coiling, depending on the location and condition of the aneurysm.
Medications: Pain relief, anti-seizure medications, and blood pressure management may be administered in the acute phase to stabilize the patient and prevent further complications.

4. Rehabilitation

If a ruptured aneurysm causes neurological damage, rehabilitation services such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy may be required to restore function and improve quality of life.

Preventing Brain Aneurysms

While some risk factors (such as genetics) are out of your control, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing a brain aneurysm:

Manage high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and prescribed medications.
Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
Avoid illicit drug use, particularly stimulant drugs like cocaine.
Limit alcohol consumption to healthy levels.
Exercise regularly to maintain vascular health.

Living with Brain Aneurysm

Living with a brain aneurysm can be stressful and emotionally challenging, especially due to the uncertainty and fear of potential rupture. Many individuals may experience anxiety, persistent headaches, or difficulty concentrating, which can impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Concerns about physical exertion, stress, and long-term health may also affect sleep, work, and emotional well-being.

Effective management focuses on regular monitoring, blood pressure control, and personalized treatment plans to reduce risks and provide peace of mind. Lifestyle modifications, stress management, and close neurological follow-up play a vital role in maintaining stability and confidence. Contact Mir Neurology today to receive expert care, ongoing support, and guidance for living safely and confidently with a brain aneurysm.

FAQs

What is a brain aneurysm?

A brain aneurysm (cerebral aneurysm) is a weak, balloon-like bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that can fill with blood and may rupture, causing bleeding into the brain.

What causes a brain aneurysm?

Brain aneurysms form when artery walls weaken due to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, genetics, smoking, drug use, or vessel inflammation.

What are common symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm?

Many unruptured aneurysms cause no symptoms, but larger ones may cause headache, vision changes, or numbness if they press on nerves.

What are the symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm?

A ruptured aneurysm often causes a sudden, severe headache (“worst of your life”), nausea, stiff neck, vision changes, loss of consciousness, or seizures.

How is a brain aneurysm diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose aneurysms using imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, CT angiography (CTA), MRA, or cerebral angiography.

What treatment options are available for brain aneurysms?

Treatment depends on size and risk and may include observation, surgical clipping, or endovascular coiling; ruptures need emergency repair.

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Main Office - Cumberland, United States

Our main office is located in Cumberland, United States. Our doctors have office hours at additional locations in the Hagerstown area to better serve our patients.

924 Seton Dr Suite C, Cumberland, MD 21502, United States.

(301) -797-7600