Understanding Aneurysms

An aneurysm is a very serious condition. It is a blood filled balloon that is found in the blood vessel. Aneurysms are commonly found in the artery at the base of the brain and the main artery of the heart. Aneurysm can become very serious and should be treated immediately. Aneurysms cause the blood vessel to weaken. When this happens, the aneurysm becomes stronger and larger. Eventually, if not treated the balloon-like structure could rupture and cause hemorrhaging or even death.

There are many different causes of aneurysms. Sometimes, the condition is hereditary, however most develop later in life. Hardening of the arteries and aging are the two most common causes of aneurysms. If the arteries become clogged or harden, the blood vessels will become weak. This could cause a build-up of blood on the wall of the vessel that can become increasingly larger. In other words, an aneurysm will form. Aging is a common cause because over the years the blood vessel weaken. Also, blood tends to build-up on the vessel walls. When the build-up increases it could cause an aneurysm to form.

Genetics are one thing that could cause aneurysms. If you have a family history of the disorder you are more likely to get them. Also, women are about 50% more likely to get aneurysms than men. If you have a history of certain medical conditions you may be more prone to aneurysms. These conditions include polycycstic kidney disease, hypertension, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Also, people that smoke tobacco are more susceptible to aneurysms.

Knowing what the symptoms of an aneurysm are could help save your life. Symptoms of an non-ruptured aneurysm include fatigue, loss of balance and speech impediment. If you notice any of these symptoms your should seek medical attention to stop it from rupturing. Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include sudden, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, neck pain and seizures. Medical is needed immediately to prevent further injury.

Treatment for aneurysm depends on the size. Normally, if the aneurysm is small in size, no treatment will be needed. The doctor may prescribe medication to help stop it from rupturing, but in most cases the doctor will try to let it heal on its own. For large aneurysms and ones that have ruptures surgery is needed. Normally, surgical clipping is performed. This is used before rupturing occurs. The doctor will place a small metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to separate it from the rest of the blood. This will decrease pressure and prevent it from rupturing. Coil embolization is another form of surgery. A tube is placed in the artery that contains the aneurysm. Metal coils are then placed in the tube and against the aneurysm itself. This helps relieve pressure and prevent it from rupturing.

Aneurysms are a very serious condition that need to be diagnosed right away. Knowing what symptoms to look for will help diagnose it. Once that happens, treatment should be done. If an aneurysm is not treated it can rupture and in many cases, this leads to death.