An aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel wall that can bulge and, in some cases, rupture. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms, but certain warning signs can require urgent medical attention.
Possible warning signs that should not be ignored
1. Sudden, severe headache
- A “worst headache of your life,” especially if it appears suddenly, can be a sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm.
2. Sudden neurological changes
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
- Trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Confusion
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Vision changes or loss of consciousness
3. Severe eye-related symptoms
- Pain around or behind an eye
- A drooping eyelid
- A suddenly enlarged pupil
- Double vision
4. Chest, back, or abdominal pain
- A large aneurysm in the aorta (the body’s main artery) may cause deep, persistent pain in the chest, back, or abdomen.
5. A pulsing feeling or lump in the abdomen
- Some abdominal aortic aneurysms can cause a noticeable pulsation in the belly.
Call emergency services immediately if:
- A sudden “thunderclap” headache occurs
- There is sudden weakness, paralysis, confusion, fainting, or difficulty speaking
- Severe chest or abdominal pain occurs with dizziness, sweating, or collapse
Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain connective tissue disorders
- High cholesterol and vascular disease
Many aneurysms are found during imaging tests done for other reasons and can be monitored or treated before they become dangerous. If you’re asking because of a specific symptom, tell me where the pain is, when it started, your age, and any medical conditions (especially blood pressure or smoking history).
