Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month takes place in September. It aims to raise awareness about brain aneurysms, educate people about prevention and warning signs, and raise funds for brain aneurysm research.
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Brain aneurysms are dangerous if they rupture. The mortality rate is approximately
This article provides an overview of Brain Awareness Month and details how a person can get involved.
It also gives some information on brain aneurysms and who people can contact for support if a brain aneurysm has affected them or their loved ones.
Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month takes place in September. It is an opportunity to increase brain aneurysm awareness and generate support for people affected by this condition.
Advocacy and awareness are helpful in several ways. Symptom knowledge can improve a person’s chance of obtaining prompt medical help, and fundraising can support research.
It can also increase support for those affected by a brain aneurysm. For example, those who are recovering from a ruptured brain aneurysm may experience long- or short-term neurological changes, such as difficulty with:
- memory
- concentration
- language processing
- organizational skills
- decision making
They may also experience:
- chronic head pain
- changes in vision
- behavioral changes
- difficulty with coordination and balance
There are numerous ways to take part in Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month:
- Participation in fundraising events: Fundraising events including walks, runs, and concerts that enable participants to increase brain aneurysm awareness and resources. A person can find events by using the Brain Aneurysm Foundation’s website.
- Sharing information on social media: People can raise awareness about brain aneurysms using their social media platforms.
- Education: Learning about brain aneurysms can lead to advocacy and support through conversations and knowledge sharing.
- Donations: Organizations such as the Brain Aneurysm Foundation accept online donations to fund research, education, and support.
The following section provides information about brain aneurysms.
How common are brain aneurysms?
An estimated 1 in 50 people in the United States live with a brain aneurysm. The worldwide prevalence is around
What are the different types of brain aneurysms?
There are
- Saccular aneurysm: This is a round, blood-filled sac, usually occurring on arteries located at the base of the brain.
- Fusiform aneurysm: This type expands on all sides of the blood vessel.
- Mycotic aneurysm: This aneurysm results from an infection that weakens the artery wall.
What increases the chance of developing a brain aneurysm?
While anyone can develop a brain aneurysm, certain factors
- older age
- high blood pressure
- atherosclerosis — the accumulation of plaque in the arteries
- infection
- trauma
- tumors
- family history
- tobacco use
- alcohol use
- cocaine use
Learn more about brain aneurysms.
What are the symptoms of brain aneurysms?
According to the
Large aneurysms can produce symptoms when they apply pressure on nearby nerves and tissues. A person with this type of aneurysm might experience:
Sometimes aneurysms leak days or weeks before rupturing. This can produce sudden, severe head pain, known as a sentinel headache. Accompanying symptoms
- high blood pressure
- visual field deficits
- dilated pupils
- cranial nerve deficits
- drowsiness
- light sensitivity
- motor deficits
- sensory deficits
- lower back pain with neck flexion
- neck stiffness
If an aneurysm ruptures, a person will require immediate medical attention. Symptoms include:
- a sudden and severe headache
- nausea
- double vision
- light sensitivity
- stiff neck
- vomiting
- seizures
- lost of consciousness
How do doctors diagnose and treat brain aneurysms?
Doctors can diagnose brain aneurysms using imaging such as a CT scan, MRI scan, and cerebral angiography.
They can also measure the chemicals in a person’s cerebrospinal fluid to detect bleeding around the brain.
Small, unruptured aneurysms may not need treatment other than monitoring and lifestyle changes, such as blood pressure management and smoking cessation, if necessary.
Treatment for larger, leaking, or ruptured aneurysms includes:
- surgery
- embolization
- blood flow diversion devices
A person can find information and support about brain aneurysms at the following organizations:
Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month takes place in September. The goal is to increase knowledge about brain aneurysms, fund research, and provide support for people living with this condition.
People can get involved by learning about brain aneurysms, sharing awareness, and participating in fundraising events.