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Brain Aneurysm
A brain aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in a blood vessel wall in the brain. Most cause no symptoms, but if one bursts it causes bleeding around the brain — a life-threatening emergency.
Causes & risk factors
- Weakness in a blood vessel wall
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited conditions
- Older age
Common symptoms
- Sudden "worst-ever" headache (if it bursts)
- Stiff neck
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vision changes or double vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Most unruptured aneurysms cause no symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
- CT scan of the brain
- CT or MR angiography
- MRI brain
- Lumbar puncture (in some cases)
Treatment & management
- Emergency treatment if the aneurysm has burst
- Procedures to seal the aneurysm (coiling or clipping)
- Monitoring small, unruptured aneurysms
- Controlling blood pressure and stopping smoking
- Managing complications after a bleed
When to see a doctor urgently
- A sudden, severe "thunderclap" headache — call your local emergency number now
- Headache with a stiff neck, vomiting, collapse or vision loss — call your local emergency number now
- Sudden double vision or a drooping eyelid
- A known aneurysm with new symptoms
Frequently asked questions
What does a burst aneurysm feel like?
It typically causes a sudden, extremely severe headache described as the worst of your life, often with a stiff neck, vomiting or loss of consciousness. This is an emergency — call your local emergency number now.
Do all aneurysms need treatment?
No. Many small unruptured aneurysms are simply monitored. The decision depends on size, location and risk factors, and is made with a specialist.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.