Aneurysm

An aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel caused by a weakness in the vessel wall. While aneurysms can occur in any blood vessel, they are most commonly found in the brain (cerebral aneurysm) or the aorta (aortic aneurysm). Aneurysms may grow without causing symptoms, but they pose a serious health risk if they rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding. Early detection is critical to prevent complications, including stroke, organ damage, or death, depending on the location of the aneurysm.

Causes

The exact cause of aneurysms is often unknown, but several factors increase the risk. High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant contributor as it weakens the blood vessel walls over time. Other risk factors include smoking, genetic predisposition, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and certain inherited conditions like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or polycystic kidney disease. Trauma or injury, as well as infections that damage blood vessels, can also lead to the development of an aneurysm.

Many aneurysms are asymptomatic and remain undetected until they grow large or rupture. However, when symptoms do occur, they vary based on the aneurysm's location. For brain aneurysms, symptoms may include sudden, severe headaches (often described as the "worst headache of one's life"), blurred vision, nausea, stiff neck, and loss of consciousness. For an aortic aneurysm, symptoms may include deep, constant pain in the chest, back, or abdomen. A ruptured aneurysm can cause intense pain, internal bleeding, and, if untreated, can be fatal.

Treatment

Treatment for an aneurysm depends on its size, location, and risk of rupture. Small, unruptured aneurysms may be closely monitored with regular imaging and managed with lifestyle changes, including controlling blood pressure and quitting smoking. For larger or high-risk aneurysms, surgery may be necessary. Endovascular coiling or clipping is often used for brain aneurysms to seal off the affected blood vessel. In the case of an aortic aneurysm, open surgery or endovascular repair may be performed to prevent rupture. Regular follow-ups are crucial to ensure the aneurysm remains stable.