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Aneurysm: Signs you shouldn’t ignore… See more

The headline “Aneurysm: Signs you shouldn’t ignore” refers to a serious medical condition, but many online posts exaggerate or create fear. An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that bulges outward. Some aneurysms cause no symptoms and are found incidentally, while others can become life-threatening if they rupture.

Possible warning signs depend on where the aneurysm is located:

Brain aneurysm

Often there are no symptoms until rupture, but warning signs of a possible rupture include:

  • Sudden, severe “worst headache of your life”
  • Neck stiffness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Confusion, fainting, seizure
  • Weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, or vision changes

Aortic aneurysm (major artery)

Possible signs may include:

  • Deep, persistent pain in the chest, back, or abdomen
  • A pulsating feeling or lump in the abdomen
  • Shortness of breath or trouble swallowing (depending on location)

A rupture can cause:

  • Sudden severe pain
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Signs of shock (such as pale, clammy skin or extreme weakness)

When to seek urgent help

Call emergency services for sudden severe headache, sudden chest/abdominal/back pain, fainting, new neurological symptoms, or signs of shock.

Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk include smoking, high blood pressure, older age, certain inherited conditions, and a family history of aneurysms.

If you’re asking because of a specific symptom (for example, a headache, chest pain, or abdominal pain), tell me what happened, where the symptom is, and how long it has been present.

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