An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that causes it to bulge. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they become large or rupture, which is why certain warning signs should never be ignored.
Signs of an aneurysm that need attention
🚨 1. Sudden, severe headache
A sudden, intense headache often described as the “worst headache of your life” can be a warning sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm.
It may occur with:
- Neck stiffness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- Fainting
Seek emergency care immediately.
🚨 2. Sudden weakness, numbness, or speech problems
Possible signs of bleeding or pressure affecting the brain:
- Face drooping
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Trouble speaking
- Sudden vision changes
- Loss of coordination
🚨 3. Sudden chest, back, or abdominal pain
Aortic aneurysms can sometimes cause:
- Severe chest or upper back pain
- A tearing or ripping sensation
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Dizziness or fainting
These symptoms require urgent medical attention.
4. A pulsing feeling in the abdomen
Some abdominal aortic aneurysms may cause:
- A noticeable pulse or lump in the belly
- Deep abdominal discomfort
- Back pain
5. Vision changes or eye-related symptoms
Some brain aneurysms may affect nearby nerves and cause:
- Double vision
- A drooping eyelid
- Pain around the eye
- Enlarged pupil
Who has a higher risk?
Risk increases with:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited connective tissue disorders
- Artery disease
