by Frances Meupe

Created on: February 08, 2010

The brain is the primary center that regulates, coordinates and maintain the functions of the body.  There are serious problems that sometimes arise in this nerve center that can lead to disability or death.  One such occurrence is the formation of an aneurysm (pronounced an-u-rism).  A brain aneurysm is formed when a blood vessel in the brain becomes abnormally dilated due to its weakened walls.  This condition can sometimes be the result of a congenital defect.  However, many people are unaware that there are  risk factors for developing an aneurysm.

Hypertension is a risk factor.  People with high blood pressure and smoke double the risk.  Gender and race are also risk factors.  African Americans and women are twice as likely than others to develop an aneurysm.  Also at risk are people who have this condition in their family history. Even though these risk factors are involved, brain aneurysms are often asymptomatic or "without symptoms".  Aneurysms can go undiagnosed until detected during examination for an unrelated ailment.  There are symptoms that are usually ignored or misdiagnosed.  Because of the aneurysm's pressure on the brain, symptoms will present as a severe headache, blurred vision, speech disturbance, and neck pain.

When an aneurysm ruptures, it causes bleeding into the skull causing a stroke.  In severe  cases death may occur.  Once ruptured, symptoms appear quickly.  The most ominous sign is a "thunderclap headache".  Dr. OZ, on his television show, describes it as "the worst headache of your life".  Other symptoms are nausea and vomiting, seizure, and fainting.  If you or anyone you know experience these symptoms and suspect an aneurysm, seek emergency medical  attention immediately.  Ten to fifteen per cent of people die before getting to the hospital.

Once diagnostic tests confirm the presence of an aneurysm, there are treatments available.  The course of treatment is based on a person's overall health condition in addition to any other risk factors.  Whether ruptured or unruptured, brain aneurysms are treated with surgery.  Surgical clipping is one procedure.  This method involves placing a small metal clip around the base of the aneurysm to stop the blood flow to the aneurysm.  This technique decreases pressure thus preventing rupture of the aneurysm. 

Another method of treating aneurysms

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