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An aneurysm consists of the dilation of the wall of an artery that can eventually rupture and cause bleeding. The most affected sites are the aorta artery, which takes arterial blood out of the heart, and the cerebral arteries, which carry blood to the brain.
Normally, the aneurysm grows very slowly and, therefore, it is common that it does not cause any type of symptom, only to be discovered when it breaks. However, there are situations in which the aneurysm grows until it reaches a very large size or until it presses on a more sensitive region. When this happens, more specific symptoms may appear, which vary according to your location:
1. Cerebral aneurysm
Cerebral aneurysm is most often discovered during a CT scan, for example. However, when the aneurysm grows a lot or ruptures, symptoms such as:
- Very severe headache, which worsens over time;
- Weakness and tingling in the head;
- Pupil enlargement in only 1 of the eyes;
- Convulsions;
- Double or blurred vision.
In addition, some people report the feeling that the head is hot and that there is a leak, for example. Understand more about how to identify and treat a brain aneurysm.
2. Aortic aneurysm
The symptoms of aneurysm in the aorta vary according to the region of the affected artery, the main ones being:
- Strong pulse in the abdominal region;
- Constant chest pain;
- Constant dry cough;
- Tiredness and shortness of breath;
- Difficulty swallowing.
See other signs of aortic aneurysm and how to get treatment.
If more than one symptom appears, it is advisable to consult a general practitioner for diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, and to confirm the presence of the aneurysm.
What to do in case of suspicion
If more than one of the indicated symptoms appears, it is advisable to consult a neurologist, in case of suspected cerebral aneurysm, or a cardiologist, in case of suspected aortic aneurysm, to carry out diagnostic tests, such as computed tomography, ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging. , for example.
Who is at higher risk for aneurysm
The specific cause for the development of an aneurysm is not yet known, however, people who smoke, have high blood pressure, suffer from atherosclerosis or have already had an infection in an artery, are at greater risk of having this problem.
In addition, having a family history of aneurysm, having a serious accident, or having a severe blow to the body can also increase the chances of having an aneurysm. See who is most likely to survive an aneurysm.
How to identify emergency signs
In addition to the first symptoms, the aneurysm can cause sudden changes that are usually related to its rupture. Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm can be:
- Very severe headache;
- Fainting;
- Constant vomiting and nausea;
- Sensitivity to light;
- Stiff neck;
- Difficulty walking or sudden dizziness;
- Convulsions.
These symptoms constitute a very serious situation that puts the person's life at risk and, therefore, it is important to immediately call medical help, calling 192, or taking the person to the emergency room.