12 Early Warning Signs of an Aneurysm You Shouldn’t Ignore

Understanding Brain Aneurysms: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention

A brain aneurysm occurs when a blood vessel in the brain weakens and begins to bulge, forming a balloon-like shape. While many aneurysms remain harmless and go unnoticed, some can rupture—causing serious, life-threatening bleeding in the brain known as a hemorrhagic stroke. Recognizing the symptoms of a ruptured or leaking aneurysm can be the difference between life and death.

Symptoms of a Ruptured Aneurysm

A ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The most common symptoms include:

• Sudden, severe headache (often called “the worst headache of my life”)

• Blurred or double vision

• Nausea and vomiting

• Fainting or confusion

• Stiff neck

• Pain around one eye

• Sensitivity to light

• One drooping eyelid

• One dilated pupil

• Seizures

• Weakness or numbness

According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, the headache is typically the first and most intense symptom. If you or someone around you experiences this kind of pain—especially when combined with nausea, vision issues, or fainting—call emergency services immediately. Time is critical, and paramedics may need to begin life-saving treatment before reaching the hospital.

Symptoms of a Leaking Aneurysm

Sometimes, an aneurysm doesn’t rupture all at once. Instead, it may leak small amounts of blood before a full rupture. This is known as a sentinel bleed. The main symptom is a sudden, severe headache that lingers for several days or even weeks.

If you experience a persistent headache that feels different from your usual ones, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation before a rupture can occur.

Signs of an Unruptured Aneurysm

Many brain aneurysms are small and asymptomatic. They are often discovered incidentally during scans for other health issues. However, larger aneurysms that press on nerves in the brain can cause noticeable symptoms such as:

• Blurred or double vision

• Pain around one eye

• Drooping eyelid

• Dilated pupil

• Numbness or weakness

• Changes in headache patterns

It’s important to note that unruptured aneurysms typically don’t cause chronic headaches, but if your headache patterns change significantly, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider.

Genetic Risk Factors

Some people are born with a higher risk of developing brain aneurysms due to inherited conditions or birth defects. Those with a close family history of brain aneurysms—especially among immediate relatives—should be particularly cautious. Women and individuals over the age of 40 are more frequently diagnosed with aneurysms.

Additional Risk Factors

Certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of developing an aneurysm, including:

• Arteriovenous malformation (AVM)

• Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

• Fibromuscular dysplasia

• Marfan syndrome

• Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Lifestyle habits such as smoking, substance abuse (particularly cocaine), excessive alcohol use, and uncontrolled high blood pressure also weaken blood vessel walls, increasing the risk of aneurysms.

Effects of a Rupture

Although a rupture may only last a few seconds, it can cause catastrophic damage. The bleeding can kill surrounding brain cells, raise pressure in the skull, and restrict the brain’s access to oxygen and blood—potentially causing unconsciousness, permanent brain damage, or death.

Complications After a Rupture

Even after the bleeding stops, serious complications may follow. These include:

• Re-bleeding from the same aneurysm

• Vasospasm (narrowing of nearby vessels), which can cause ischemic strokes

• Hydrocephalus, where excess fluid builds up in the brain, increasing pressure and damaging tissue

Prevention Tips

While not all aneurysms can be prevented—especially those with a hereditary cause—you can lower your risk with a few healthy lifestyle changes:

• Stop smoking

• Control high blood pressure through diet and exercise

• Eat a diet low in sodium and high in fruits and vegetables

• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Exercise regularly

These steps not only reduce your aneurysm risk but also improve your overall health and protect against heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Final Thoughts

Brain aneurysms are often silent until it’s too late, but being informed about the symptoms and risk factors can help you act quickly. If you experience unusual headaches, vision changes, or any of the symptoms listed above, consult a medical professional right away. Early detection and treatment could save your life.