An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that bulges or enlarges. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they grow, leak, or rupture, which is why certain warning signs should be taken seriously.
Signs of an aneurysm that should not be ignored
1. Sudden, severe “worst headache of your life”
- A sudden explosive headache can be a warning sign of a ruptured brain aneurysm and requires emergency care.
2. Neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light
- These can occur with bleeding around the brain.
3. Sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, or vision changes
- These may indicate a brain-related emergency.
4. A sudden loss of consciousness or seizure
- Can occur with serious bleeding or pressure changes in the brain.
5. Chest, back, or abdominal pain
- Aortic aneurysms (in the body’s main artery) may cause deep, severe pain in the chest, back, or abdomen.
6. A pulsating feeling or lump in the abdomen
- Some abdominal aortic aneurysms can feel like a pulsing mass, especially in thinner individuals.
7. Shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness
- Large aneurysms can sometimes press on nearby structures.
Seek emergency help immediately for:
- Sudden severe headache
- Fainting or collapse
- New neurological symptoms (face drooping, weakness, speech difficulty)
- Sudden severe chest or abdominal pain
Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk include:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking history
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited connective tissue disorders
If you are asking because of a specific symptom (headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, dizziness, or something else), tell me what happened, when it started, and your age—I can help you understand how urgent it may be.
