Aneurysm: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that can bulge and, in some cases, rupture. Some aneurysms cause no symptoms and are discovered during tests for other reasons, but certain warning signs require urgent medical attention.
Possible Warning Signs of an Aneurysm
1. Sudden, severe headache
A sudden “worst headache of your life” can be a warning sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm and requires emergency care.
2. Vision changes
Possible signs include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Drooping eyelid
- Pain around the eye
3. Sudden weakness or numbness
Especially on one side of the body, which may indicate a serious neurological problem.
4. Trouble speaking or confusion
Difficulty speaking, understanding, or sudden confusion should be treated as an emergency.
5. Neck stiffness, nausea, or vomiting
These can occur with bleeding around the brain from a ruptured aneurysm.
6. Chest, back, or abdominal pain
Depending on where an aneurysm occurs, symptoms may include:
- Severe chest or upper back pain (possible aortic aneurysm)
- Deep abdominal or back pain (possible abdominal aortic aneurysm)
7. A pulsating feeling in the abdomen
Some people with an abdominal aortic aneurysm may notice a pulsing sensation near the belly button.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Call emergency services immediately for:
- Sudden severe headache
- Fainting or collapse
- Sudden weakness, paralysis, or speech problems
- Severe chest, back, or abdominal pain
Who May Have Higher Risk?
Risk factors can include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited conditions
- Some blood vessel diseases
