An aneurysm is a weakened, bulging area in the wall of a blood vessel. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they become large, leak, or rupture.
Symptoms depend on where the aneurysm is located:
- Brain aneurysm (unruptured): May cause a severe localized headache, vision changes, pain above or behind one eye, a dilated pupil, or numbness or weakness on one side of the face.
- Ruptured brain aneurysm: Often causes a sudden, extremely severe headache (“the worst headache of my life”), along with nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency.
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm: May cause deep pain in the abdomen, back, or side, or a pulsing sensation in the abdomen. If it ruptures, it can cause sudden severe pain, dizziness, fainting, or shock—another medical emergency.
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm: May cause chest pain, back pain, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath if it becomes large.
When to seek emergency care
Call your local emergency services immediately if someone has:
- A sudden, severe headache unlike any they’ve had before.
- Sudden severe chest, back, or abdominal pain.
- Fainting, loss of consciousness, or signs of shock.
- Sudden neurological symptoms such as weakness, trouble speaking, or confusion.
Many aneurysms are found incidentally during imaging for other reasons. People with certain risk factors—such as smoking, high blood pressure, older age, or a family history of aneurysms—may benefit from discussing screening with a healthcare professional.
If you’re asking because you or someone else is having symptoms right now, tell me what symptoms are happening and how long they’ve been present, and I can help you understand what they may indicate and whether urgent evaluation is warranted.
