In the United States there are an estimated 6 million people – 1 in 50 – who have an unruptured brain aneurysm. And when an aneurysm ruptures, it is fatal in about 40 percent of cases.
September is National Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month, and Dr. Arvind Ahuja is proud to join the Brain Aneurysm Foundation to help educate people about the seriousness of cerebral aneurysms and the importance of early detection and screening.
Aneurysms form inside the brain when a blood vessel weakens and begins to bulge. If left untreated, pressure can build up along the vessel causing it to rupture. Brain aneurysms often arise suddenly, but there are still many early symptoms that can signal something is wrong. Extreme pain confined to one area of the head, blurred vision and neck stiffness are among the most common. Ruptured brain aneurysms may cause more abrupt and unexpected indicators that will require immediate care.
Help spread the awareness of brain aneurysms by recognizing the risk factors.
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While brain aneurysms can happen suddenly to anyone, those with a family history of a brain aneurysm should take extra precautionary steps. Individuals who are over the age of 25 and have a family history of aneurysms, especially first-degree relatives, are particularly at risk and should get screened every 5 to 10 years.
Smoking and illicit drug usage have shown to be factors related to both brain aneurysm formation and ruptures. This is especially true for those with a family history of aneurysms. Individuals who have quit smoking are still at risk and should consider getting screened.
Those most susceptible to brain aneurysms fall between the ages of 35 – 60. While cerebral aneurysms can occur in children, the majority form after the age of 40.
Women also have an increased risk, with an occurrence of 3:2 more cases when compared to men. Both women and men are encouraged to get screened if they have a family history of brain aneurysms, regardless of their family member’s gender.
Traumatic head injuries, especially direct brain trauma, can lead to the formation of a cerebral aneurysm. Those who have experienced such injuries should follow up with their doctor and find out if getting screened is best for their condition.
The risk of having a brain aneurysm rupture is greatly increased in people with a history of high blood pressure, or hypertension. While high blood pressure doesn’t necessarily cause brain aneurysms, heavy lifting or increased activity can cause pressure to rise, causing an existing aneurysm to burst.
Dr. Ahuja has been supporting and treating aneurysm patients for over two decades, making him one of the most experienced neurosurgeons in southeastern Wisconsin. From coiling to flow diversion and stenting, Dr. Ahuja has unparalleled experience in treating a wide range of brain aneurysm conditions as minimally invasive as possible.
By raising awareness and sharing knowledge, Neurosurgery and Endovascular Associates hopes to encourage people to catch warning signs early on. No matter how severe or mild your condition is, our team will ensure that you receive the best diagnosis and treatment.
