Aneurysm: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
An aneurysm is a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that bulges or expands. Many aneurysms cause no symptoms until they grow, leak, or rupture. A rupture can be life-threatening, so recognizing warning signs is important.
Possible warning signs of an aneurysm
1. Sudden, severe headache
- A sudden “worst headache of your life” can be a warning sign of a brain aneurysm rupture.
- It may come with nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, or sensitivity to light.
2. Vision changes
- Blurred vision, double vision, or a drooping eyelid can occur with some brain aneurysms.
3. Sudden weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
- These can resemble stroke symptoms and require urgent medical attention.
4. Chest or upper back pain
- Aortic aneurysms (in the body’s main artery) may cause deep, severe pain in the chest or back.
5. Severe abdominal or back pain
- An abdominal aortic aneurysm may cause persistent or sudden intense pain in the abdomen, side, or lower back.
6. A pulsing feeling in the abdomen
- Some people may notice a rhythmic, pulsating sensation in the belly.
7. Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Large aneurysms in the chest may press on nearby structures and cause these symptoms.
8. Loss of consciousness or collapse
- This can be a sign of major internal bleeding from a ruptured aneurysm and is an emergency.
Seek emergency help immediately if there is:
- A sudden severe headache
- Sudden neurological changes (face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty)
- Sudden severe chest, abdominal, or back pain
- Fainting or collapse
Risk factors that increase aneurysm risk
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Older age
- Family history of aneurysms
- Certain inherited connective tissue disorders
- High cholesterol and vascular disease
Many aneurysms are found before they cause symptoms through imaging tests done for other reasons or screening in higher-risk people.
If you are asking because of a specific symptom (for example, headache, chest pain, abdominal pain, or a family history of aneurysm), share the details and I can help you understand what it may mean and when to seek care.
