The Warning Signs of an Aneurysm

Aneurysms occur in a weakened blood vessel. A blood filled, balloon-like bulge will form on the wall of the weakened blood vessel. This bulge is the aneurysm. The aneurysm will continue to fill with blood until it has healed. As it becomes larger, the blood vessel will become weaker. When the aneurysm becomes too large it will rupture. A rupture can lead to very serious health problems including stroke, brain bleeding and even death. Knowing the signs of an aneurysm can help your avoid these health problems from occurring.

In many cases, unruptured aneurysms will be asymptomatic. However, you may notice one or a few signs of an aneurysm. One common sign is fatigue. The body will not be getting enough blood and therefore, it will not be getting enough oxygen. The organs will be overworked and become very tired. The body may even begin to shut down. Another sign of an aneurysm is short-term memory loss. Other signs of an aneurysm that has not yet ruptured is dilated pupils, double vision and poor peripheral vision.

You will however, notice many signs of an aneurysm that has ruptured. Depending on the area that the aneurysm is located the signs will vary. If the aneurysm is in the brain you will get a sudden, severe headache. Along with the headache will come nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light. Many people mistake a migraine for a brain aneurysm because the signs of an aneurysm are similar to those of a migraine. Although, one thing you will notice with an aneurysm that you won’t with a migraine is a stiff neck. It may or may not come along with neck pain. This is caused by the pressure that the aneurysm is putting on the neck.

The signs of an aneurysm in the abdomen or chest are a little different. Before it has ruptured you may notice back pain and a pulsing sensation in the abdomen. The pulsing will be similar to a heartbeat. Once it has ruptured you will experience severe pain in the chest, abdomen, back and even legs. The pain will be excruciating and make it very difficult to do anything. You will also experience nausea and vomiting.

Some signs of an aneurysm are experienced for both brain and aortic aneurysms. These include low blood pressure, palpitations and even shock. Since aneurysms can become very serious if not treated it is very important to know the signs of an aneurysm. If you experience any of them you should seek medical attention right away. It could save your life.