An aneurysm is a bulge in an artery where the vessel walls have weakened. Arteries are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Factors like high blood pressure and certain congenital abnormalities can increase your risk of developing an aneurysm.
Most aneurysms are found in the aorta, the largest artery that runs from the heart through the chest and abdomen. However, they can occur in any artery. When aneurysms affect brain arteries, creating a condition called a cerebral aneurysm, they can lead to brain bleeding, also known as hemorrhage, and can cause strokes.
Aneurysms can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, but some types are more common in specific groups. Symptoms vary depending on the aneurysm’s type and location, and a rupture can lead to serious internal bleeding. Thankfully, there are treatments available.
Aneurysms are classified based on their location in the body, which influences symptoms and potential complications. There are four main types: thoracic abdominal, aortic abdominal, cerebral, and peripheral aneurysms.
Aortic aneurysms occur in the aorta, from the heart to the chest (thoracic) and abdomen. A thoracic aortic aneurysm involves the upper aorta, where the vessel balloons 50% wider than normal. An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens in the lower aorta, causing it to swell to 150% of its normal size.
Cerebral aneurysms develop when brain arteries swell, often forming a saccular, blood-filled sac near artery branches at the brain’s base. A fusiform aneurysm involves ballooning on all sides.
Peripheral aneurysms appear in leg arteries (popliteal) or the abdomen (splenic). These are quite rare, affecting a very small percentage of the population.
Symptoms of aneurysms depend on type and severity. Thoracic aortic aneurysms are often asymptomatic, but complications can arise if the artery bursts. Symptoms might include pain or discomfort in the back, sides, or limbs. Similarly, a majority of abdominal aortic aneurysms are symptomless unless they’re detected during screenings for other issues.
Cerebral aneurysm symptoms typically only present when severe or if a rupture occurs, leading to bleeding or subarachnoid hemorrhage. If you suspect this, seek immediate medical attention.
Most peripheral aneurysms also show no symptoms, although they may lead to blood clots or internal bleeding if ruptured.
The exact cause of aneurysms isn’t fully understood, but they can either be congenital or develop at any time. Factors that increase the risk vary slightly with different types, mostly involving conditions that impact arterial health.
Aneurysms are often discovered incidentally during tests for other conditions. Treatment varies, from regular monitoring to medication for managing blood pressure and, in critical cases, surgery.
Medications aim to control blood pressure and may require trying different types to find what works. Surgeries are generally not the first option but are necessary for addressing severe issues.
Cerebral aneurysms that cause brain bleeding can result in permanent impairments, requiring therapies to address motor, cognitive, and speech functions.
Preventing aneurysms involves maintaining healthy heart and artery conditions. This includes managing blood pressure through exercise, diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive drinking to prevent worsening and enhance quality of life. While aneurysm rupture is rare, proper screening and management significantly improve health outcomes.
