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Aneurysm

An aneurysm is when a blood vessel inside the brain or heart becomes increased in size or takes on a balloon-like appearance.

This potentially serious medical condition can be caused by a weakening of the wall of the blood vessels involved.

The cause of the weakening of the wall can be induced by a variety of different diseases or conditions and even can be caused by hereditary components.

Aneurysms are more often seen in Arteries than Veins. When the size of the aneurysm increases, so does the risk for a rupture.

Two primary locations:

1.)  Aorta:  Heart
2.)  Circle of Willis:  Brain

–  Other possible locations include popliteal in the venous system as well as other sites.

Compilations of a Possible Rupture Include:

–  Severe hemorrhage
–  Blood loss
–  Loss of brain function
–  Coma
–  Death

Symptoms:

–  Headache
–  Blurry vision
–  Confusion
–  Dizziness
–  Nausea
–  Vomiting
–  Chest pain
–  Chest discomfort
–  Difficulty breathing
–  Fainting

Risk Factors Include:

1.)  Diabetes
2.)  Obesity
3.)  High blood pressure
4.)  Family history
5.)  Smoking
6.)  Alcohol
7.)  Copper deficiency

Additional Causes:

–  Weakness in the wall due to unknown reason or other medical problems
–  Weakness due to atherosclerosis
–  Syphilis
–  Trauma

Diagnosis

1.)  CT exam can help evaluate and locate ruptured cerebral aneurysms
2.)  Subarachnoid Hemorrhage is often seen in conjunction with the Aneurysm.
3.)  Lumbar puncture can be helpful to find blood in cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment:

1.)  Watch and wait

2.)  Surgery

3.)  Treat the Hypertension

4.)  Endovascular coiling – placement into an artery of a stent-like coils.
– often used for the brain

5.)  Angioplasty with stent placement
– often used for the heart