Can severe headache and blurred vision indicate a brain aneurysm?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a 45-year-old man, and I have been having some worrying symptoms lately, like severe headaches and episodes of blurred vision.

My father had an intracranial aneurysm that caused a brain hemorrhage when he was around my age. What are the signs that I could have an aneurysm as well? How are aneurysms and brain hemorrhages diagnosed?
I am really concerned about suffering a life-threatening bleed like my father did. What treatments are available if an aneurysm is detected? Are there any lifestyle changes I can make to reduce my risk?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

We welcome you to the icliniq.com family.

I appreciate the confidence you place in me for your healthcare consultation.

Signs of an intracranial aneurysm (a condition where there is bulging or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain) can include:

Severe Headache: Often described as the worst headache ever experienced.
Stiff Neck: Especially if it is accompanied by a headache.
Nausea and Vomiting: Especially if they occur suddenly and without explanation.
Sensitivity to Light: Particularly if it's associated with a headache.
Loss of Consciousness: Fainting or loss of consciousness can occur in some cases.
Seizures: Seizures may occur if the aneurysm ruptures.

CT (computed tomography) is usually the initial diagnostic procedure when SAH (subarachnoid hemorrhage, bleeding in the space between the brain and the tissue covering the brain) is suspected.

A good-quality non-enhanced CT scan may depict SAH in more than 90 percent of patients who undergo scanning within 48 hours, depending on the location and extent of the subarachnoid blood and the time elapsed since the ictus (a sudden attack). The location of the subarachnoid blood identifies the presumed location of the ruptured aneurysm, a finding often supported by the demonstration of an aneurysm in the area of maximum clot localization or the area of the maximum amount of subarachnoid blood.

Treatment options for aneurysms depend on various factors, including the size, location, and risk of rupture. Here are some common treatments:

Watchful Waiting: If the aneurysm is small and not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it with regular imaging tests to track any changes over time.

Endovascular Coiling: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin, and guiding it to the aneurysm site. Once in place, tiny coils are inserted into the aneurysm to promote blood clotting and seal it off, preventing rupture.
Surgical Clipping: In this procedure, a neurosurgeon opens the skull and places a metal clip at the base of the aneurysm to prevent blood flow into it. Surgical clipping is typically performed for larger aneurysms or those in locations unsuitable for coiling.
Flow Diversion: A relatively newer technique, flow diversion involves placing a stent-like device called a flow diverter across the neck of the aneurysm to redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm, promoting clotting and eventual closure.
Pipeline Embolization Device (PED): Similar to flow diversion, PED is a type of stent designed to divert blood flow away from the aneurysm, allowing it to clot and heal over time.

The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the size and location of the aneurysm, the patient's overall health, and the preferences of the patient and medical team. It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you want some help.

Thank you.