Brain aneurysms--weak spots in a vessel that bulge and fill with blood--can occur with little or no warning. If they rupture, the result is often a stroke, which leads to permanent nerve damage or death. According to the American Society of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology, one in 15 Americans a year will develop a brain aneurysm, and more than 30,000 will have a stroke as a result. At greatest risk are people over 50 years of age and, to a certain degree, women.
Severe Headache
For many people, the onset of a sudden and severe headache--often described as "the worst headache of my life"--is the first indication that he has an aneurysm. This unusually painful headache is frequently a sign that the aneurysm has burst. However, an aneurysm may also leak for some time before it breaks, causing headaches prior to a stroke, according to the National Stroke Association. Headaches can also be triggered by the aneurysm's enlarging and pressing against nerves and surrounding tissue in the brain.
Nausea
Although there are many causes of nausea and vomiting, these may also be a point to the presence of a brain aneurysm. This is especially true as the aneurysm enlarges or begins to leak blood into the surrounding area in the head. Unexplained nausea or vomiting, combined with severe headache, are particularly strong signs you have an aneurysm that is leaking or has burst, the National Stroke Association says. If this occurs, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Visual and Other Problems
Intolerance to light, dilated pupils and pain around the eyes are all possible signs that an aneurysm has ruptured. The patient may also experience a stiff neck and blurred or double vision. Even before the aneurysm breaks, she may notice a loss of peripheral vision. Other warning signs that an aneurysm is growing and may be about to burst include loss of muscle coordination, difficulty speaking or processing thoughts, feeling tired and problems with short-term memory.
