An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that can bulge or enlarge. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they become large, leak, or rupture, which is why knowing warning signs can be important.
Possible warning signs that should not be ignored
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. Sudden weakness or numbness
- Especially on one side of the body, or with facial drooping or speech difficulty.
3. Vision changes
- Blurred vision, double vision, or a drooping eyelid can occur with some brain aneurysms.
4. Neck stiffness, nausea, or vomiting
- These can occur with bleeding around the brain.
5. Chest, back, or abdominal pain
- Aortic aneurysms may cause deep, persistent pain in the chest, back, or abdomen.
6. A pulsating feeling in the abdomen
- A noticeable pulsing lump in the belly may be a sign of an abdominal aortic aneurysm and should be evaluated.
7. Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing
- Large aneurysms in the chest can sometimes press on nearby structures.
Seek emergency help immediately if there is:
- A sudden severe headache
- Loss of consciousness
- New weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
- Sudden severe chest, back, or abdominal pain
Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited connective tissue disorders
- High cholesterol and vascular disease
Many aneurysms are found before symptoms appear through imaging done for other reasons or through screening in higher-risk people.
If you are concerned about a specific symptom (for example, headache, abdominal pain, or a pulsating sensation), describe where it is, when it started, and whether it came on suddenly or gradually.
