Symptoms:

Headaches and double vision are common symptoms associated with brain aneurysms. However, the most serious complication is the bursting or rupturing of the aneurysm, which can result in sudden, severe headaches and immediate death in up to 20% of affected patients. For those who survive, a ruptured aneurysm can lead to a potentially debilitating haemorrhagic stroke if left untreated. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately if any symptoms of a brain aneurysm are experienced.

Sudden onset of severe, sharp, tearing pain in the chest or back (indicating a possible aortic dissection) However, many people with an aortic aneurysm do not experience any symptoms until it is too late. This is why routine screening is recommended for individuals at high risk for developing an aortic aneurysm. These individuals include those with a family history of the condition, those with a history of smoking, and those with high blood pressure or atherosclerosis.

Causes / Risk Factors:

There are several risk factors associated with brain aneurysms, including:

• Family history: Individuals with a family history of brain aneurysms are at higher risk of developing the condition.

• Age and gender: Aneurysms are more commonly detected in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and women are more likely to develop them

• Smoking: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for the development of aneurysms.

• High blood pressure: Hypertension can weaken the walls of the blood vessels, increasing the risk of aneurysm formation.

• Drug abuse: The use of cocaine and other illicit drugs can increase the risk of developing brain aneurysms.

• Trauma: Head injuries can cause damage to the blood vessels in the brain, increasing the risk of aneurysm formation.

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as polycystic kidney disease, fibromuscular dysplasia, and arteriovenous malformation (AVM) can increase the risk of developing aneurysms.

It is important to note that not all individuals with risk factors will develop brain aneurysms, and some individuals without any known risk factors may still develop the condition.

Diagnosis:

A simple CT scan or an MRI scan is all that is needed to diagnose a brain aneurysm and plan treatment.

Treatments:

The treatment for brain aneurysms may vary depending on factors such as the size, location, and overall health of the patient. In general, the goal of treatment is to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing

One treatment option is coiling: which involves inserting a small catheter into the aneurysm and filling it with tiny metal coils to prevent blood flow. This is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anaesthesia.

Another option is clipping: which involves open surgery to place a metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to prevent it from rupturing. This procedure requires a craniotomy, where a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain.

A third option is flow diversion: which involves placing a stent-like device in the artery to divert blood flow away from the aneurysm and allow it to heal. Treatment decisions are made on a case-by-case basis and require careful consideration by a team of medical professionals. Recovery from these procedures may vary, but many patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks or months. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are often necessary to ensure the aneurysm does not recur or cause further complications.