An aneurysm is the weakening that occurs at some point in the wall of a blood vessel, which allows a lump to form at that point as blood passes through the vessel and exerts pressure. The aneurysm looks like a small balloon that can burst at any moment. Aneurysm rupture is an emergency.
If the aneurysm has formed in a blood vessel in the brain, the rupture means that blood is leaking into the surrounding tissues. The aneurysm is not noticeable unless the rupture occurs. It is estimated that 6-9% of the population has an aneurysm without knowing it.
Of course, rupture does not always happen. In fact, even if the aneurysm is detected early, for example during an examination (eg magnetic or other imaging examination), doctors do not recommend any treatment unless it is large enough or the patient has a family history. history of aneurysm rupture.
What happens when an aneurysm ruptures?
If the rupture of the aneurysm occurs suddenly, blood leaks for a few seconds until the platelets form a blood clot at the site. In some patients, small “leaks” of blood from the aneurysm are seen a few days or weeks before the rupture. Leaking blood increases the pressure inside the skull and disrupts normal blood flow to the brain. In both cases the risk of death is high if the patient is not transported immediately to the hospital. 30-50% of patients lose their lives after aneurysm rupture.
Signs and symptoms
The most common and characteristic symptom of aneurysm rupture in the brain is a very strong headache. Some people who have experienced it describe it as a thunderbolt hitting directly on the head. The pain can occur anywhere on the head, but often focuses behind the eyes. The headache is often accompanied by stiff neck, numbness in the face and sensitivity to light.
Other possible side effects include seizures, weakness in the extremities, blurred or double vision and severe numbness. If you experience the above symptoms or a person you know has similar discomfort, you need to call an ambulance immediately or go to the nearest hospital.
Immediate medical intervention can restore pressure and blood flow inside the skull and save the patient’s life.
Source: www.topontiki.gr/
