A brain aneurysm, or cerebral aneurysm, is a serious medical condition caused by a part of the blood vessel expanding abnormally, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH); approximately 5 percent of the U.S. population experiences an aneurysm in the brain. Patients with a brain aneurysm are at risk for the aneurysm bursting, which results in bleeding that can be life threatening. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) notes that patients do not have signs until the aneurysm is very large or bursting; noticing the warning signs of a burst can result in faster treatment.
Changes in Vision
One of the signs of an oncoming brain aneurysm rupture is a vision change that is sudden and severe. The Mayo Clinic states that double vision and blurred vision are two possible warning signs. The NIH adds that a loss of vision, in one or both eyes, can also occur with a bursting brain aneurysm. If a very large, but not bursting, brain aneurysm is pushing against the nerves involved with sight, these vision changes also might occur. You also could have dilated pupils, according to the NINDS.
Sudden Pain
Another warning sign of an impending brain aneurysm burst is sudden pain. One affected area is the eyes, either above or behind one or more eyes, according to the NINDS. The Mayo Clinic notes that you may have a stiff neck, which can be more uncomfortable than painful. However, if you have a sudden, severe headache, the NIH warns that this is a major sign that a brain aneurysm has burst.
Facial Numbness
The NINDS states that numbness or weakness occurring on one side of the face is a possible sign that a brain aneurysm is going to burst; paralysis also might occur on the same side of the face. The NIH notes that muscle weakness and decreased sensation can spread to different areas of the body.
