Not the typical tension headache—but a persistent, unusual headache in a specific spot, often behind or above one eye.
2. Vision Changes
Blurred or double vision
A dilated pupil
Drooping eyelid on one side
Difficulty seeing to one side
3. Pain Above or Behind the Eye
A dull, persistent ache that doesn't go away with normal pain relievers.
4. Numbness or Weakness
Usually on one side of the face or body, caused by pressure on specific nerves.
5. Difficulty Speaking
Slurred speech or trouble finding words.
6. Seizures
In some cases, an unruptured aneurysm can cause seizure activity.
Signs of a Ruptured Aneurysm (Medical Emergency)
When an aneurysm ruptures, symptoms are usually sudden and severe. Call emergency services immediately if you or someone near you experiences:
7. The "Thunderclap" Headache
This is the most classic symptom—a sudden, extremely severe headache often described as "the worst headache of my life." It hits like a clap of thunder, peaking within seconds to minutes.
8. Nausea and Vomiting
Often accompanying the severe headache, sometimes without warning.
9. Stiff Neck
Sudden neck stiffness or pain, especially when trying to touch your chin to your chest. This can indicate irritation from bleeding around the brain.
10. Sudden Vision Changes
Blurred or double vision
Sudden sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Vision loss
11. Loss of Consciousness
Fainting, passing out, or difficulty waking up.
12. Sudden Confusion or Personality Changes
Difficulty understanding speech
Confusion about time, place, or identity
Agitation or unusual behavior
Other Possible Symptoms
Depending on the location and severity of the bleed, you might also experience:
Drooping eyelid on one side
Seizures (with or without previous history)
Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Difficulty walking or sudden dizziness
Cardiac arrest (in severe cases)
Risk Factors for Brain Aneurysms
While aneurysms can happen to anyone, certain factors increase risk:
Uncontrollable Risk Factors:
Age – Most common in people 35-60
Gender – Women are more likely than men
Family history – Having a first-degree relative with an aneurysm
Certain genetic conditions – Polycystic kidney disease, connective tissue disorders
Previous aneurysm – Having had one increases risk of another
Controllable Risk Factors:
High blood pressure – The most significant modifiable risk factor
Smoking – Dramatically increases risk
Drug use – Particularly cocaine and amphetamines
Heavy alcohol use
Head trauma
What to Do If You Suspect an Aneurysm
If you have symptoms of an UNRUPTURED aneurysm:
See a doctor promptly, especially if symptoms are new, persistent, or concerning
Be specific: "I have this headache in one spot that won't go away"
Mention any risk factors (family history, smoking, high blood pressure)
If you have symptoms of a RUPTURED aneurysm:
Call emergency services immediately. Do not drive yourself. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve. Every minute counts.
How Are Aneurysms Diagnosed?
If a doctor suspects an aneurysm, they may order:
CT scan – Quick, widely available, can detect bleeding
CT angiogram – Shows blood vessels in detail
MRI/MRA – Detailed images without radiation
Cerebral angiogram – The most detailed test; involves threading a catheter through blood vessels
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the aneurysm's size, location, and whether it has ruptured:
For Unruptured Aneurysms:
Monitoring – Small aneurysms may be watched with regular imaging
Medication – To control blood pressure and other risk factors
Surgical clipping – A metal clip placed at the base to stop blood flow
Endovascular coiling – Tiny platinum coils inserted to block the aneurysm
For Ruptured Aneurysms:
Emergency treatment to stop bleeding and prevent re-bleeding, usually through surgical clipping or endovascular coiling, plus management of complications.
Prevention: What You Can Do
While you can't control all risk factors, you can reduce your risk:
Control blood pressure – Get it checked regularly; keep it in a healthy range
Don't smoke – If you smoke, seek help to quit
Limit alcohol – Heavy drinking increases risk
Avoid stimulant drugs – Cocaine and amphetamines are particularly dangerous
Know your family history – If close relatives had aneurysms, tell your doctor
Manage stress – Chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure
The Bottom Line
Brain aneurysms are serious, but awareness saves lives. Knowing the signs—especially the "thunderclap" headache—could mean the difference between getting help in time and devastating consequences.
If you experience the worst headache of your life, sudden vision changes, or any of the symptoms described, don't wait. Don't question. Don't drive yourself. Call for help immediately.
You are not overreacting. You are not being dramatic. You are protecting your brain, your life, and your future.
