Brain Aneurysm: Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options

A brain aneurysm, also known as an intracranial or cerebral aneurysm, occurs when a weak spot in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain bulges and fills with blood. It resembles a small, berry-shaped sac hanging from the artery. When a brain aneurysm ruptures or leaks, it can cause a life-threatening condition known as a hemorrhagic stroke, which requires immediate medical attention.

Causes of Brain Aneurysm

Brain aneurysms often develop in the arteries located at the base of the brain, especially at branching points where arterial walls are weakest. These weak areas are more susceptible to rupture.

Signs and Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Severe headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Double or blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Seizures
• Drooping eyelids
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion

A leaking aneurysm may cause a sudden, severe headache, while an unruptured aneurysm can cause localized pain, double vision, and facial numbness.

Risk Factors for Brain Aneurysm

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing a brain aneurysm, including:

• Age (more common in adults)
• Gender (women are more susceptible)
• Smoking
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Drug use (e.g., cocaine)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Genetic conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Congenital conditions, such as brain AVM (arteriovenous malformation)
• Family history of aneurysms

Complications from a Brain Aneurysm

When a brain aneurysm ruptures, it causes bleeding that can damage or destroy surrounding brain cells, increasing pressure inside the skull. This disruption of blood and oxygen flow can result in unconsciousness or even death. Other complications may include:

• Rebleeding
• Vasospasm (narrowing of blood vessels)
• Hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain)
• Hyponatremia (low sodium levels)

Diagnosis of Brain Aneurysm

At Yashoda Hospital and Research Centre, Ghaziabad, various diagnostic tools are used to detect brain aneurysms, especially in patients with a family history of the condition. These may include:

• CT Scan: Produces 3D images of the brain.
• MRI: Uses radio waves and magnetic fields to capture brain images.
• Cerebrospinal Fluid Test: Checks for blood in the fluid surrounding the brain and spine.
• Cerebral Angiogram: Detects aneurysms by imaging the brain's blood vessels.

Treatment for Brain Aneurysm

Treatment options depend on factors like the size, location, and whether the aneurysm has ruptured. Urgent treatment is required for ruptured aneurysms, with several surgical options available:

• Surgical Clipping: A metal clip is applied at the base of the aneurysm to halt blood flow.
• Endovascular Coiling: A catheter is inserted into the artery, and tiny platinum coils are placed inside the aneurysm to block blood flow.
• Flow Diverter Surgery: A stent is placed in the artery to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm.

Symptom Management and Preventive Care

To manage symptoms and prevent complications, doctors may recommend:

• Pain relief medications (e.g., acetaminophen) for headaches
• Calcium channel blockers to prevent blood vessel narrowing
• Anti-seizure medications for seizures
• Drainage procedures (ventricular or lumbar catheters) to reduce pressure on the brain
• Shunt surgery for fluid drainage
• Rehabilitative therapy to help regain lost skills due to brain damage

By recognizing the signs and symptoms early, and understanding the risk factors, timely intervention can prevent life-threatening complications from a brain aneurysm.

Conclusion:

Early diagnosis is key to effectively treating a brain aneurysm. Being vigilant and recognizing the warning signs can make a significant difference. Immediate medical attention and timely intervention for a ruptured aneurysm greatly improve survival rates and recovery outcomes. While recovery from an unruptured aneurysm is typically fast, a ruptured aneurysm may require multiple surgeries, and the recovery period can vary based on the extent of damage. Prompt action is crucial for better long-term prognosis.

 

Dr. (Brig.) Yadvendra Singh Sirohi is a highly distinguished neurologist with over 24 years of experience, having trained and excelled at leading national institutions. Known for his clinical expertise, compassion, and commitment, he serves as a Senior Consultant in Neurology at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre, Ghaziabad. Dr. Sirohi is adept at managing a wide range of neurological conditions with exceptional skill and care.

Dr. Shishir Kumar is a highly skilled neurosurgeon, neuro interventionist, and endoscopic spine surgeon with over 9 years of experience in the Delhi/NCR region. He has completed fellowships in neuro intervention, endovascular surgery, and minimally invasive spine surgery. With his extensive training, Dr. Kumar provides comprehensive neurosurgical care, focusing on patient education and a collaborative treatment approach. He currently practices at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre, Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad.

 

Dr. Atul Gupta is a highly experienced neurosurgeon with 29 years of expertise. He specializes in complex procedures, including brain tumor surgeries, cerebrovascular surgeries, epilepsy treatments, and spine surgeries.

 

Dr. Puneet Malik is a best neurosurgeon doctor in ghaziabad in complex brain and spinal cord surgeries, and nerve specialist particularly for patients experiencing severe numbness. He is adept at procedures such as clot removal, tumor excision, and halting brain bleeding, all performed with exceptional precision and care.