Cerebral aneurysm
- Article
- 2021-03-02
A cerebral aneurysm is a weak or thin spot on a blood vessel in the brain that pops out like a balloon and fills with blood. A cerebral aneurysm can press on a nerve or surrounding tissue in the brain and also leak or burst, releasing blood into surrounding tissues (called a bleed). Cerebral aneurysms can occur at any age, although they are more common in adults than children and more often in women than men. These aneurysms can occur anywhere in the brain. Some small aneurysms may not show signs and are usually detected during imaging tests for other medical conditions. The signs and symptoms of an uninterrupted cerebral aneurysm will depend in part on its size and growth rate. A larger aneurysm that grows steadily can cause symptoms such as numbness, pain above and behind the eye, and paralysis on one side of the face.
Therapy
Not all cerebral aneurysms require treatment. Small, intact aneurysms that show no symptoms should be checked regularly. Treatment may be recommended for large or irregularly shaped aneurysms or for aneurysms that are causing symptoms. Emergency treatment for individuals with a ruptured cerebral aneurysm may be needed to restore deteriorating breathing and reduce abnormally high pressure in the brain. Treatment is needed to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing again. Treatment for intact and ruptured cerebral aneurysms includes surgery to cut or fill the aneurysm, or to reduce blood flow. Several medications can be prescribed to treat related symptoms or to reduce the risk of stroke.
Prognosis
The prognosis for a person with a ruptured cerebral aneurysm depends on the location of the aneurysm, the degree of bleeding or re-bleeding, the person's age, general health, pre-existing neurological conditions, and the time between rupture and medical care. Early diagnosis and treatment are important. A burst cerebral aneurysm can be fatal or lead to hemorrhagic stroke, vasospasm (in which other blood vessels in the brain contract and restrict blood flow), hydrocephalus, coma, or short-term and / or permanent brain damage. Recovery from a treatment or fracture can take weeks to months. Steps to reduce the risk of aneurysm rupture include controlling blood pressure, quitting smoking, and avoiding stimulant medications. About 25 percent of individuals whose cerebral aneurysm has ruptured do not survive the first 24 hours.
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