- Main symptoms
- 1. Cerebral aneurysm
- 2. Aortic aneurysm
- What to do in case of suspicion
- Who is at higher risk for aneurysm
- How to identify emergency signs
An aneurysm is the dilation of the wall of an artery that can eventually rupture and cause hemorrhage or stroke, depending on its location. The two most affected sites are the aortic artery, which takes arterial blood out of the heart, and the cerebral arteries. In either case, as it grows very slowly and does not cause any changes in the body, the aneurysm rarely causes any symptoms.
The aneurysm happens more often in people who have high blood pressure, smoke or have a history of the aneurysm family. Treatment is done according to the type of aneurysm, size and symptoms presented by the person, and surgery may be indicated in some cases.
Main symptoms
Although it often does not cause symptoms, when the aneurysm grows a lot or develops rapidly, there may be symptoms that vary according to the location of the aneurysm.
1. Cerebral aneurysm
Cerebral aneurysm is most often discovered during a CT scan, for example. However, when the aneurysm grows a lot and ruptures, some symptoms appear, the main ones being:
- Persistent and severe headache; Weakness and tingling in the head; Pupil enlargement in only 1 of the eyes; Frequent seizures; Double or blurred vision.
In addition, some people report the feeling that the head is hot and that there is a leak, for example. Understand more about how to identify and treat a brain aneurysm.
2. Aortic aneurysm
The symptoms of aneurysm in the aorta vary according to the portion of the affected artery, the main ones being:
- Pulsation in the abdominal region; Constant chest pain; Constant dry cough; Tiredness and shortness of breath; Difficulty swallowing.
See other signs of aortic aneurysm and how to get treatment.
Thus, if more than one such symptom appears, it is advisable to consult a general practitioner for diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, and to confirm the presence of the aneurysm.
What to do in case of suspicion
If more than one of the symptoms appears, it is advisable to consult a neurologist, in case of suspected cerebral aneurysm, or a cardiologist, in case of suspected aortic aneurysm, to carry out diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography, ultrasound or MRI, for example.
Who is at higher risk for aneurysm
A specific cause for the development of an aneurysm is not yet known, however, people who smoke, have high blood pressure, suffer from atherosclerosis or have already had an infection in an artery, are at greater risk of having the problem.
In addition, having a family history of aneurysm, having a serious accident or being hit hard on the body can also increase the chances of having an aneurysm. See who has the best chance of surviving an aneurysm.
How to identify emergency signs
In addition to the first symptoms, the aneurysm can cause sudden changes that are usually related to its rupture. Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm can be:
- Very severe headache; Fainting; Constant vomiting and nausea; Stiff neck; Difficulty walking or sudden dizziness; Convulsions.
These symptoms are a very serious situation that puts the person's life at risk and, therefore, it is important to immediately call medical help, calling 192, or taking the person to the emergency room.
