A brain aneurysm is a condition where an artery in the brain develops an abnormal bulge. It develops when there is a weakened area in the wall of an artery. With time, as the blood flows against the vessel wall, this fragile spot becomes thinner and can rupture, causing bleeding in the brain. Before understanding how a brain aneurysm can be treated, let us first learn about its causes and symptoms.

Causes
When the blood flowing through a blood vessel puts pressure on a weak spot on its wall, that part bulges out, and blood collects in there, forming a brain aneurysm. It can form anywhere but is most commonly observed in arteries at the base of the brain, where they branch into different directions. This point in the arteries is naturally weaker. The exact reason that causes weakened vessel walls is unclear. In some cases, it may be congenital, and in others, inflammation or trauma can also lead to the development of aneurysms without thinning of the artery wall.

Symptoms
Small brain aneurysms are not serious and usually do not show any symptoms. However, a ruptured bulging can become life-threatening and can lead to an extremely serious condition known as subarachnoid hemorrhage.

The symptoms of a ruptured and intact brain aneurysm are different. They are:

Ruptured brain aneurysm symptoms
Emergency care is needed for those who show any of the following symptoms of aneurysm rupture.

Sudden headache
The pain is described as a blinding pain that comes on suddenly and is the worst kind of headache anyone can ever experience.
Stiff neck
This stiffness is different from a pulled neck muscle. As blood accumulates in the spinal fluid around the base of the brain, it can cause inflammation, resulting in a stiff neck.
Nausea and vomiting
People with a ruptured brain aneurysm may also complain of nausea and vomiting. This is due to the increasing pressure in the brain.
Sensitivity to light
The need to avoid light is another symptom in patients whose aneurysm has ruptured.
Loss of consciousness
Loss of consciousness or confusion are also signs requiring immediate professional care.

Unruptured brain aneurysm symptoms
Small, unruptured brain aneurysms do not produce any symptoms. A larger one may press on the brain tissues and nerves, causing symptoms such as:

Pain above and behind one eye
There might be pain above or behind one eye where the aneurysm develops. This pain may get worse or is pain that does not go away with time.
Drooping eyelid
Persons with a brain aneurysm may have drooping eyelids as the aneurysm blocks the communication between the brain and the muscles that raise the eyelid.
Change in vision or double vision
Larger aneurysms press the nerves in the area, causing symptoms like a change in vision or double vision.
Loss of sensation on one side of the face
An unruptured brain aneurysm can cause numbness on one side of the face. This is due to the pressure of the aneurysms on the nerves of that side of the face.

Leaking aneurysm symptoms
A leaking unruptured aneurysm may cause a sudden and intense headache. This can be considered a warning sign that a more serious break is following soon.

Treatment
A neurologist will determine the kind of treatment appropriate for the patient. Certain factors will be considered for making particular therapy recommendations, including the age, size, and position of the aneurysm, family health history, and any other health conditions.

In most cases, small brain aneurysms do not rupture but are regularly monitored. Larger ones have a chance of bursting and require treatment to reduce the future risk of a break. Ruptured aneurysms are an emergency and require immediate care.

Endovascular coiling
Endovascular coiling is a procedure that involves inserting a catheter into an artery in your leg or groin. The aneurysm is reached through the tube, and then tiny platinum coils are passed into the bulged area. This helps seal off the lump, preventing it from growing or rupturing.

Surgical clipping
In this procedure, a cut is made in your scalp, and a small flap of bone is removed to locate the aneurysm. A tiny metal clip is clamped on the bulge to permanently seal it, thereby preventing its growth or rupture. The scalp is then stitched back after the bone flap is replaced.

Flow diverter surgery
In cases of larger brain aneurysms, where endovascular coiling or surgical clipping is not feasible, a stent is inserted inside the artery. This helps to divert blood flow away from the bulged portion. The reduced blood flow lessens the risk of rupture while allowing the body to heal.

Paying attention to the symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. A larger unruptured brain aneurysm needs to be addressed as soon as possible, while a ruptured aneurysm requires critical care from experienced healthcare professionals.