What is Aneurysm?

An aneurysm is a localized, abnormal bulge or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel, caused by weakening of the vessel wall. It can occur in various parts of the body, but most commonly in the:

• Brain (Cerebral Aneurysm): Found in arteries at the base of the brain.
• Aorta (Aortic Aneurysm): Found in the chest or abdomen.

Types of Aneurysms

1. Saccular (Berry) Aneurysm: A small, sac-like bulge on one side of the vessel.
2. Fusiform Aneurysm: A uniform, spindle-shaped expansion of the entire vessel.
3. Ruptured Aneurysm: When the aneurysm bursts, causing internal bleeding.
4. Dissecting Aneurysm: When the vessel wall tears and blood flows between layers.

Symptoms

Many aneurysms are asymptomatic until they rupture or grow large enough to press on nearby structures. Symptoms depend on the aneurysm’s location:

For Cerebral Aneurysm:

• Sudden, severe headache (often described as “the worst headache of my life”).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Stiff neck or blurred vision.
• Seizures or loss of consciousness.
• Weakness, numbness, or paralysis.

For Aortic Aneurysm:

• Chest, back, or abdominal pain.
• Pulsating sensation near the navel.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing (thoracic aneurysm).
• Low blood pressure or shock (in cases of rupture).

Treatment