Cerebral Aneurysm

Finding out you have a brain aneurysm can be frightening, especially if you aren't experiencing any symptoms. But not all brain aneurysms are dangerous, and many can be safely monitored without immediate treatment.

At Washington Health's Bell Neuroscience Institute of Silicon Valley, our specialists will help you understand your diagnosis, assess your risk, and determine whether monitoring or treatment is right for you.

What Is a Brain Aneurysm?

A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral aneurysm, occurs when a weak area in the wall of a blood vessel in your brain bulges outward, similar to a small balloon.

Many aneurysms remain small and never cause problems. However, some can grow or rupture, causing bleeding in or around the brain.

Your doctor will consider the aneurysm's size, location, shape, and other factors to help determine the safest approach.

What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm?

Most unruptured brain aneurysms do not cause symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:

• Headaches
• Blurred or double vision
• Pain around or behind one eye
• Numbness or weakness in part of the face

A ruptured aneurysm can cause a sudden, extremely severe headache, sometimes described as the worst headache of your life. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, or loss of consciousness.

A ruptured brain aneurysm is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you experience a sudden, severe headache or other concerning neurological symptoms.

How Is a Brain Aneurysm Diagnosed?

Your doctor may use imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or cerebral angiography to examine the blood vessels in your brain.

These tests help determine the aneurysm's size and location and whether treatment is needed.

Your care team will explain the results and answer any questions you may have.