Aneurysm is a type of blister formed off the side of a blood vessel, usually where the wall of the blood vessel is weak. When blood flows through this weakened spot, it pushes the blood vessels outside forming a bulge or balloon like structure.
Typically the aneurysm occurs in two places either in the brain or abdominal aorta. If the aneurysm is small or minor, it will not cause any complication, unless it increases in size and bursts.
People younger than 50 years of age are seen to get diagnosed with this medical condition. The annual rate of brain aneurysm getting ruptured is 8-10 per 100,000, which is relatively low, making it a rare disease. But if the symptoms are noticeable or significant, then you should not ignore it as it can lead to a potential risk in the future.
Dr. Vikas Gupta a well known Neurosurgeon explains “An aneurysm is like a ticking time bomb in the body, a silent bulge formed by the weakening of blood vessel walls. While it often remains harmless, if left unchecked and it bursts, it can pose life-threatening risks. Vigilance is key, especially if symptoms arise.”
What are the Causes of Brain Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysm is caused by the weakening of the blood vessels of the brain, however the exact cause of this disease is still unknown. Some of the most common causes of brain aneurysm are:
- Alcohol and smoking
- High blood pressure
- Injury or trauma to the head or brain
- Family history
- Age
- Gender
- Blood tissue disorder
- Drug abuse
- Atherosclerosis (a fatty build up on the walls of blood vessels)
What are the Symptoms of Brain Aneurysms?
The symptoms of brain aneurysms can vary depending on whether the aneurysm is unruptured or has ruptured. Here’s a breakdown:
Symptoms of an Unruptured Brain Aneurysm:
An unruptured aneurysm may not cause any symptoms and can go undetected. However, if it grows larger, it may cause complications on surrounding tissues or nerves, leading to:
- Headaches or pain above and behind the eye
- Blurred or double vision
- Drooping eyelid
- Pain around or near the eye
- Difficulty speaking
- Weakness or numbness in one side of the face or body
Symptoms of a Ruptured Brain Aneurysm:
A ruptured aneurysm leads to a subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain), which is a medical emergency. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden, severe headache (often described as the “worst headache of your life”)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Blurred or double vision
- Seizures
- Confusion, difficulty concentrating, or loss of consciousness
- Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
What is the Treatment for Brain Aneurysms?
When a brain aneurysm ruptures, then the first line of treatment usually considered is surgery. There are numerous types of surgery used to treat brain aneurysm, some of them are:
- Endovascular Coiling: This procedure does not require a skull opening surgery, the doctor puts a catheter through your groin, which is near the pelvic area where the upper thigh meets your upper body. The catheter is then placed at the affected area, and small platinum coils are transferred through the tube and implanted in the aneurysm. These coils promote the blood clotting in the aneurysm and stops blood from putting pressure on the weakened area. This whole procedure helps prevent aneurysm from rupturing.
One of Dr. Vikas’s patient who underwent this procedure states “I recently underwent treatment for a brain aneurysm and couldn’t be more grateful for the care I received. The medical team, especially Dr. Vikas Gupta, explained every step of the process, making me feel at ease. The endovascular coiling procedure was minimally invasive and the recovery was smoother than expected. I appreciate the thorough follow-up care and support from the staff.”
- Surgical Clipping: As the name suggests, this procedure involves the surgeon making a small incision in the skull to access the aneurysm. A metal clip is placed at the base (or neck) of the aneurysm, preventing blood from entering it and reducing the risk of rupture.
- Stenting: A small, mesh-like tube is placed in the blood vessel at the site of the aneurysm. This stent reduces pressure on the weakened vessel wall and helps redirect blood flow along its normal path. Sometimes, a coiling technique is also combined with this procedure to enhance results.
Additional treatment for brain aneurysm includes:
- Calcium Channel Blockers
- Anti Seizure Medications
- Blood Pressure Management
- Rehabilitation
What is the Cost of Brain Aneurysm Treatment in India?
The cost of brain aneurysm treatment in India can vary depending on several factors, including the type of procedure, the hospital or city where the treatment is conducted, the expertise of the medical team, and the patient’s overall condition. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the costs:
1. Endovascular Coiling: INR 4,50,000 to INR 8,00,000 (USD 6,000 to 10,000).
2. Surgical Clipping: INR 5,00,000 to INR 9,00,000 (USD 6,500 to 12,000).
3. Flow Diverter or Stenting: INR 6,00,000 to INR 12,00,000 (USD 8,000 to 15,000).
Conclusion
Brain aneurysm whether ruptured or unruptured, a deadly condition in both cases. Being aware of its symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and best possible treatment. Advances in medical procedures, such as endovascular coiling, surgical clipping, and stenting, offer effective solutions tailored to each patient’s condition. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to ensure the best possible care.
FAQs
1. Can a person survive a brain aneurysm?
Yes, a person can survive a brain aneurysm, especially if it is detected before rupture or if they receive prompt medical treatment after a rupture.
2. What are the long-term effects after surviving a brain aneurysm?
Survivors may experience neurological deficits, cognitive challenges, or emotional changes, requiring rehabilitation.
3. How long does a brain aneurysm take to heal?
Around 3-6 weeks to fully recover.
4. What imaging techniques are used to diagnose brain aneurysms?
CT scans, MRI, and cerebral angiography.
5. Can brain aneurysms occur in children?
Yes, though they are more common in adults, children can also be affected.
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