A neurologist specializing in neurovascular care is encouraging Americans to learn the warning signs of brain aneurysms and understand the importance of seeking emergency medical attention when symptoms develop.
What is a Brain Aneurysm?
According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, an estimated 7 million Americans—about one in every 50 people—are living with an unruptured brain aneurysm. Jeremy M. Liff, a triple board-certified neurologist and neurovascular specialist, said a brain aneurysm develops when a weakness in a blood vessel gradually enlarges over time.
“A brain aneurysm is a defect of a blood vessel. Over time, the defect gets bigger and bigger, like a balloon,” Liff said. “When it eventually ruptures, you have a catastrophic hemorrhage called a subarachnoid hemorrhage in the brain. It can be a very life-threatening event and requires immediate attention.”
Risk Factors and Prevention
Liff said many people with an unruptured brain aneurysm have no symptoms and may not know one is present. He said modern imaging technology, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and specialized computed tomography (CT) scans, can identify aneurysms before they rupture.
According to Liff, two of the most important modifiable risk factors are smoking and uncontrolled high blood pressure. He said quitting smoking and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels can reduce the risk of aneurysm complications while also improving overall cardiovascular health.
Health experts encourage individuals experiencing the sudden onset of an extremely severe headache or other symptoms suggestive of a medical emergency to seek immediate emergency care. People concerned about their personal risk for a brain aneurysm should discuss their medical history and risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine whether screening or additional evaluation is appropriate.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
