Aneurysm: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

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 knowing the warning signs can be important.

Possible Warning Signs of an Aneurysm

1. Sudden, Severe Headache

A sudden “worst headache of your life” may be a warning sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm and requires emergency medical attention.

2. Vision Changes

A brain aneurysm may sometimes cause:

Blurred or double vision
A drooping eyelid
Pain around the eye

3. Sudden Weakness or Numbness

Weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking—especially on one side of the body—can be a sign of a serious neurological emergency.

4. Neck Stiffness, Nausea, or Vomiting

These symptoms can occur with bleeding around the brain after an aneurysm rupture.

5. Chest or Back Pain

An aneurysm affecting the aorta (the body’s largest artery) may cause:

Sudden, severe chest pain
Upper back pain
A tearing or ripping sensation

6. A Pulsating Feeling in the Abdomen

Some abdominal aortic aneurysms may cause a noticeable pulsing sensation in the belly, although many have no symptoms.

7. Shortness of Breath or Trouble Swallowing

Large aneurysms can sometimes press on nearby structures and cause these symptoms.

Seek Emergency Help Immediately If You Have:

🚨 Sudden severe headache
🚨 Sudden chest or back pain
🚨 Fainting or collapse
🚨 New weakness, confusion, or trouble speaking
🚨 Severe symptoms that appear suddenly