Brain Aneurysms: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, & Treatments

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, around 30,000 Americans experience a brain aneurysm each year. A brain aneurysm can be life-changing and even deadly without intervention, but not all require surgical repair.

Munson Healthcare’s Endovascular Stroke and Neurosurgery team provides custom treatment for brain aneurysms based on the patient’s unique needs. Our expert surgical team will recommend a treatment program based on the size, shape, and location of the aneurysm as well as the patient's overall health and wellness.

Key Questions About Brain Aneurysms


How A Surgical Repair Saved Joan's Life

A brain aneurysm diagnosis is often unexpected. Joan Gamache of Manistee was certainly surprised to learn she'd been carrying one of the largest unruptured brain aneurysms in the state of Michigan. See how Munson Healthcare's Endovascular Stroke and Neurosurgery team were able to surgically repair Joan's aneurysm, prevent a fatal brain bleed, and lower her risk for future strokes.

Watch Joan's full story.

 


What is a Brain Aneurysm?

A cerebral aneurysm, commonly called a brain aneurysm, is a bulge in a weak area of the wall of a brain artery. It puffs out like a small balloon. It is also called an intracranial aneurysm or brain aneurysm. Learn more about the different types of brain aneurysms.

What is an Aneurysm?

What Causes a Brain Aneurysm?

The main cause of a brain aneurysm is a weakening in the wall of an artery. The pressure of the blood being pumped through the artery can then cause the bulge in that weak area. Learn more about what causes a brain aneurysm.

What Causes an Aneurysm?

Who is At Risk of a Brain Aneurysm?

There can be many causes of a cerebral aneurysm, including inherited problems, advanced age, head injuries and more. Learn more about who is at risk of a brain aneurysm.

Are You at Risk?

What are the Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm?

Most brain aneurysms are small and many are without symptoms. You may not know you have a brain aneurysm until it tears or ruptures. Learn more about the symptoms of a cerebral aneurysm.

What are the Symptoms?

How can a Brain Aneurysm be Prevented?

Controlling your risk factors may lower your risk of having an aneurysm. Learn more about how to prevent a cerebral aneurysm.

Prevent an Aneurysm

How is a Brain Aneurysm Diagnosed?

A brain aneurysm is often found after it has ruptured. Your family doctor will recommend tests if a brain aneurysm is suspected. Learn more about how a brain aneurysm is diagnosed.

How is a Brain Aeurysm Diagnosed?

How is a Brain Aneurysm Treated?

The main goal during treatment is to decrease the risk of bleeding in the brain. Many factors are considered when making treatment choices. Learn more about how a brain aneurysm is treated.

Treatment for an Aneurysm