Aneurysm: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

An aneurysm is a weak spot in the wall of a blood vessel that causes it to bulge or balloon outward. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms and are discovered by chance, but if one grows, leaks, or ruptures, it can become a life-threatening emergency.

Knowing the warning signs can help you seek medical attention quickly.

What Is an Aneurysm?

Aneurysms most commonly occur in:

• The brain (cerebral aneurysm)
• The aorta (the body’s largest artery, in the chest or abdomen)
• Less commonly, other blood vessels

A rupture can cause severe internal bleeding or bleeding around the brain, depending on where the aneurysm occurs.

Warning Signs of a Brain Aneurysm

Many unruptured brain aneurysms have no symptoms. However, a larger aneurysm may cause:

• A sudden, severe headache that feels like the “worst headache of your life”
• Pain above or behind the eye
• Blurred or double vision
• Drooping eyelid
• Enlarged pupil
• Numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body
• Difficulty speaking
• Seizures

Emergency warning:

A sudden, explosive headache—especially if it reaches maximum intensity within seconds—requires immediate emergency care, as it can be a sign of a ruptured aneurysm.

Warning Signs of an Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

Some people have no symptoms. Possible signs include:

• A deep, constant pain in the abdomen or side
• A pulsing feeling near the belly button
• Back pain that does not go away

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (Chest Area)

Possible symptoms include:

• Chest pain
• Upper back pain
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness or coughing

Signs of a Possible Rupture (Medical Emergency)

Call emergency services immediately if you experience:

• Sudden, severe chest, back, or abdominal pain
• Fainting or dizziness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Low blood pressure symptoms
• Trouble breathing
• Sudden neurological symptoms such as weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Risk factors can include:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking or past smoking
• Older age
• Family history of aneurysms
• Certain inherited conditions affecting connective tissue
• High cholesterol and artery disease
• Previous blood vessel problems

Can an Aneurysm Be Prevented?

Not all aneurysms can be prevented, but you can reduce risk by:

• Keeping blood pressure under control
• Avoiding smoking
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a heart-healthy diet
• Managing cholesterol levels
• Attending recommended health screenings if you are at higher risk

When Should You Get Checked?

Talk with a healthcare professional if you have risk factors, especially if you have:

• A strong family history of aneurysms
• Long-term high blood pressure
• A history of smoking
• Symptoms that are new, unusual, or persistent