About Brain Aneurysms
What is a brain aneurysm?
A brain (cerebral) aneurysm is a bulging, weak area in the wall of an artery that supplies blood to the brain. And while most brain aneurysms don’t cause problems, sometimes an aneurysm bursts, or ruptures. Blood may spill into the area between the brain and the skull (subarachnoid hemorrhage). This bleeding in the brain is also called a hemorrhagic stroke. The bleeding may lead to brain damage or even death.
Although the diagnosis of a brain aneurysm is scary, there are several treatment and monitoring options which can lead to better outcomes.
The goal of the Maine Brain Aneurysm Awareness Committee is to educate the general public about brain aneurysms and the possible signs and treatments to promote earlier diagnosis and treatments.
What causes a brain aneurysm?
A person may inherit the tendency to form aneurysms, or aneurysms may develop because of hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) and aging. Some risk factors that can lead to brain aneurysms can be controlled, and others can’t. The following risk factors may increase your risk for an aneurysm or, if you already have an aneurysm, may increase your risk of it rupturing:
Family History
People who have a family history of brain aneurysms are more likely to have an aneurysm than those who don't.
Previous Aneurysm
There’s a 20% risk of developing additional aneurysms if you have already experienced one.
Gender & Age
Aneurysms are more common in females by about 60%, especially in the postmenopausal age group, where the risk is more than twice as high.
High Blood Pressure
The risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage is greater in people who have a history of high blood pressure.
Smoking
The use of cigarettes may greatly increase the chances of a brain aneurysm rupturing.
Drugs or Heavy Alcohol Use
People who use drugs, such as cocaine, or drink a lot of alcohol have a higher risk of a brain aneurysm.
Race
African Americans treated for unruptured brain aneurysms experience worse outcomes and longer lengths of stay when compared to Caucasians.
Kidney Disease
Autosomal polycystic kidney disease is associated with an increased risk of brain aneurysms, with one study finding brain aneurysms in 12% of screened patients.
Disclaimer
The Maine Brain Aneurysm Awareness Committee (MBAAC) does not provide medical advice and does not recommend, endorse or make any representation about the efficacy, appropriateness or suitability of any specific tests, products, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, health care providers or other information that may be contained on or available through this website or our social media.
NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY SEEKING MEDICAL TREATMENT BECAUSE OF SOMETHING YOU HAVE READ ON OR ACCESSED THROUGH THIS WEBSITE.
MBAAC’s website and social media contains information that is intended to educate patients and their caregivers about brain aneurysms. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is crucial that care and treatment decisions related to vascular malformations of the brain and any other medical condition be made in consultation with a doctor or other qualified medical professional. Articles that MBAAC utilize are not vetted by any medical professionals associated with MBAAC. We use our discretion to choose topics that may be of interest to members of our community.
