Do You Know the Signs of a Brain Aneurysm?
By Sara Butler
A brain aneurysm is a serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention. But before you can understand that medical assistance is necessary, you first have to know what to look for. If you or someone you know displays any of these symptoms, then get help right away -- it could be a brain aneurysm.
Brain Aneurysm?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a brain aneurysm is a weakening in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain that causes it to bulge. You can have an aneurysm and never know it, but if it ruptures, then your life could be in serious jeopardy. A ruptured aneurysm can cause bleeding in the brain that can lead to a stroke -- and you know how serious a stroke can be. That's why, if you experience any symptoms of a aneurysm or stroke, then you need to get to the emergency room or call an ambulance.
Are You at Risk?
Technically, an aneurysm can happen to anyone, but if you have one of these risk factors, then your odd increase:
- You're a woman
- You have a family history
- You smoke
- You have an infection
- You use illegal drugs such as cocaine
- You have high blood pressure
- You've suffered a head injury
Symptom No. 1: The Worst Headache of Your Life
If you suddenly develop a headache that can be described as the worst headache you've ever had, then it could be an aneurysm. Any blood that leaks into the tight spaces your brain occupies in your skull can cause pain, different than headaches you may normally encounter. Headaches associated with aneurysms are often described as coming on suddenly and they're intense.
Symptom No. 2: Visual Disturbances
If you notice that one of your eyelids is droopy and causing visual issues or if you notice that you have double vision, then that could be a sign of an enlarging aneurysm. If these symptoms come on suddenly, then that could be a sign of a stroke that needs to be evaluated by a medical professional. Don't sit around and wait -- get help.
Symptom No. 3: Weakness or Numbness
If one side of your body or half of your face suddenly begins to go numb, then that can be a sign of a ruptured aneurysm. This is the result of small blood clots from the leak in the brain gumming up the works in other areas of your brain and it's not a symptom to be ignored or brushed off.
Brain aneurysms are serious. If you ever suspect you have one, then make sure to seek medical care immediately.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lake Forest, Calif.