1 in 50 Americans May Have an Undetected Brain Aneurysm: Key Risk Factors and Early Detection
Health News – Roughly 1 in 50 people in the U.S. may be living with an undiagnosed brain aneurysm, according to medical experts. These potentially dangerous bulges in brain arteries often go unnoticed, with many individuals unaware of their condition. However, understanding the risk factors and symptoms is critical to identifying and treating brain aneurysms before they rupture.
What is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm is a weakened or thinned spot on an artery in the brain that bulges and fills with blood. While many people may live with an aneurysm without ever experiencing symptoms, larger and steadily growing aneurysms can cause serious health problems.
“Not all aneurysms cause symptoms,” explains neurosurgeon Dr. Mark Bahn from Cleveland Clinic. “A lot of people could be walking around without even knowing they have one.”
Symptoms to Watch For
In cases where an aneurysm is growing, individuals may experience pain above and behind the eye, numbness or weakness on one side of the face, a dilated pupil, or vision changes. Dr. Bahn warns that these symptoms can sometimes indicate an aneurysm that requires immediate medical attention.
“When an aneurysm bursts, it’s extremely dangerous,” Bahn says. “A sudden, severe headache is often the first sign, and emergency medical care is needed immediately.”
Risk Factors
Dr. Bahn outlines several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing a brain aneurysm, including:
- Family history of aneurysms
- Untreated high blood pressure
- Cigarette smoking
- Age, particularly for individuals over 40
Treatment Options
While not all aneurysms require treatment, Dr. Bahn notes that medical advancements have significantly improved treatment options for those that do pose a risk. Minimally invasive procedures now allow surgeons to treat brain aneurysms through a leg or wrist artery, often without the need for an incision. Patients can typically go home the next day without pain.
“It’s important to manage risk factors like blood pressure and smoking to reduce your risk,” Bahn adds.
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