A cerebral (or cranial) aneurysm occurs when the wall of a blood artery in the brain weakens and bulges or balloons.

Causes

Brain aneurysms form, expand, and burst for a variety of reasons that are as yet unclear.

Cerebral aneurysms are thought to be caused by a variety of events, including:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking
• Congenital predisposition
• Injuries to the blood vessels.
• Infections in the bloodstream might cause complications

Symptoms

A brain aneurysm’s symptoms are determined by whether or not it ruptures.

Brain aneurysm symptoms after rupture

If you experience any of the following signs of an aneurysm rupture, get immediate medical attention:

• Intense headache that strikes without warning
• Unconsciousness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Walking and normal coordination might be affected by a loss of balance
• Stiff neck
• Dilation of the pupils
• Light sensitivity
• Blurry or clouded eyesight
• Drooping eyelid
• A state of confusion or disorientation
• Seizure

As aneurysms grow, they can put pressure on the brain and nerves, which can cause symptoms.

Symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm

Get medical attention if you get a sudden headache or pain above or behind your eye. Other signs of an unruptured aneurysm include:

• Dilation of the pupils
• Hazy or double vision
• Drooping eyelid
• Speak difficulties
• Numbness on one side of your face

Diagnosis

• CT
• MRI
• EEG

Treatment

Not all aneurysms need treatment. Unruptured small aneurysms without symptoms should be checked routinely. Aneurysms must be treated to prevent ruptures. Unruptured and ruptured cerebral aneurysms are treated by clipping, filling, or reducing blood flow to the aneurysm. Various drugs can treat symptoms or lower the risk of stroke.