Brain Aneurysm

The structure of brain vessels is different from the vascular structure of other organs. The folds in the cerebrovascular wall may be missing or weaker in some people. As a result of this, an aneurysm occurs when the vessel creates a bubble from the defected area of the muscle layer on the vessel wall and the elastic layer lining the inner wall of the vessel, especially at the bifurcation points of the arteries or at the exit points of the vessels. It is widely accepted that aneurysms are caused both by acquired factors related to blood flow and processes that affect the structure of the vessel wall and by the congenital vessel wall weakness; however, the exact cause is still unknown. In very few patients (less than 10%), the mass of the aneurysm causes compression in the surrounding brain structures and some neurological symptoms emerge related to these. These signs and symptoms are; 

* Visual disturbances 

* Restriction of eye movements and associated double vision 

* Pain around the eyes and/or face 

* Speech disorders 

* Loss of strength or sensation on one side of the body 

* Gait disturbances 

* Dementia 

* Affective disorders 

* Headache 

  

If these findings are read correctly by the physician and necessary examinations are made, there may be a chance to diagnose the aneurysm before it bleeds. Sometimes, an aneurysm can be detected incidentally on imaging performed for other reasons. Diagnosing an aneurysm without bleeding is a very lucky situation for both the patient and the physician.