A brain aneurysm is a potentially life-threatening condition that involves a weak or thin spot in a blood vessel within the brain that bulges out and can potentially rupture. The rupture of an aneurysm can lead to bleeding in the brain, causing a hemorrhagic stroke. Recognizing the symptoms of a brain aneurysm is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. The symptoms can vary depending on whether the aneurysm is unruptured or has ruptured.

Unruptured Brain Aneurysm Symptoms:

In many cases, unruptured brain aneurysms do not cause symptoms and are often discovered incidentally during medical imaging for unrelated conditions. However, if symptoms do occur, they might include:

1. Headache: A sudden and severe headache, sometimes described as the “worst headache of my life,” can occur due to the pressure exerted by the aneurysm on surrounding structures.
2. Eye Pain or Vision Changes: Aneurysms located near the optic nerve or the nerves controlling eye movement can cause pain behind or around the eye, and may lead to changes in vision.
3. Dilated Pupils: Unequal pupil size or one or both pupils becoming larger than normal might occur due to pressure on nerves controlling pupil size.
4. Neck Pain or Stiffness: Discomfort or stiffness in the neck can result from an aneurysm pressing on nearby nerves or structures.
5. Localized Cranial Nerve Symptoms: Depending on the location of the aneurysm, symptoms can involve specific cranial nerves, leading to issues like facial numbness, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness.

Ruptured Brain Aneurysm Symptoms:

A ruptured brain aneurysm is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm can be severe and sudden:

1. Sudden, Severe Headache: Often described as the worst headache of one’s life, this sudden and intense headache can be accompanied by a feeling of a “pop” in the head.
2. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can be triggered by the intense headache and the pressure in the brain.
3. Stiff Neck: A stiff neck might result from irritation of the meninges (the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord) due to the bleeding.
4. Sensitivity to Light (Photophobia): Bright lights may become unbearable due to the irritation caused by the bleeding.
5. Loss of Consciousness: A severe rupture can lead to loss of consciousness, potentially leading to coma.
6. Seizures: Some individuals may experience seizures following a rupture, due to the disruption of brain tissue and electrical activity.
7. Neurological Deficits: Depending on the site of the aneurysm and the extent of the bleeding, symptoms can range from weakness and numbness to difficulty speaking, confusion, and even paralysis.

It’s important to note that while these symptoms can be indicative of a brain aneurysm, they can also be associated with other conditions. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms that suggest a brain aneurysm, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing complications and improving the chances of a positive outcome.