The headline “Aneurysm: Signs you shouldn’t ignore” refers to an important medical issue. An aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel wall that bulges outward. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they become large or rupture, which is why some are discovered during imaging done for other reasons.
Possible warning signs of an aneurysm
Symptoms depend on the location and size of the aneurysm.
Brain (cerebral) aneurysm
A small, unruptured brain aneurysm may cause no symptoms. Possible signs can include:
- A sudden, unusually severe headache (especially a “worst headache of your life”).
- Neck stiffness.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Vision changes.
- Drooping eyelid or weakness/numbness on one side.
- Trouble speaking or confusion.
A sudden severe headache with neurological symptoms can be a medical emergency.
Aortic aneurysm (major artery)
Possible signs include:
- Deep, persistent pain in the chest, back, or abdomen.
- A pulsing feeling or lump in the abdomen (sometimes).
- Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing if the aneurysm presses on nearby structures.
A rupture may cause:
- Sudden severe pain.
- Fainting or dizziness.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Signs of shock (such as pale, clammy skin or weakness).
Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk
- High blood pressure.
- Smoking.
- Older age.
- Family history of aneurysms.
- Certain inherited connective tissue disorders.
- Atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries).
When to seek emergency help
Call emergency services immediately for:
- Sudden severe headache unlike any previous headache.
- Sudden chest, back, or abdominal pain that is severe.
- Fainting, collapse, sudden weakness, speech difficulty, or confusion.
Aneurysms cannot be diagnosed from symptoms alone. If you have risk factors or concerning symptoms, a healthcare professional can determine whether tests or monitoring are needed.
