Cerebral Aneurysm

Most unruptured aneurysms are incidental – meaning they are found during the evaluation of a different and unrelated symptom (such as headache or memory problems). In rare circumstances, if an aneurysm grows large enough and is in a particular location , it can cause symptoms (such as changes in vision) by pushing on normal brain structures. Most often, however, brain aneurysms are not symptomatic.

If an aneurysm bursts, patients commonly say they experienced a sudden-onset, worst headache of their life. It is not a typical headache, it comes on all-at-once, like flipping a light switch. When this occurs, blood has spilled in the brain and the patient is at risk for permanent brain injury or death.

Seek emergency treatment immediately if you or a loved one experience the following:

• Sudden onset, severe headache—the worst headache you’ve ever experienced
• Sudden BE-FAST symptoms: Balance loss, eyesight changes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, time to call 9-1-1
• Passing out or Fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Double vision or unable to see out of one or both of your eyes
• Numbness in your face, arm or leg—or drooping on one side of your face
• Sensitivity to light
• Stiffness in your neck and shoulders
• Struggle to walk or move your arms and legs
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking