Aneurysms generally do not present signs or symptoms unless they are already at a dangerous level, that is, either quite large or when they burst. If they burst, they are likely fatal.
Small, unchanging aneurysms generally will not produce symptoms, whereas a larger aneurysm that is steadily growing may press on tissues and nerves.
Symptoms may include:
- pain above and behind the eye
- numbness, weakness, or paralysis on one side of the face
- dilated pupils, and
- vision changes
Signs of a Ruptured Aneurysm
When an aneurysm hemorrhages, an individual may experience:
- a sudden and extremely severe headache
- double vision
- nausea
- vomiting
- stiff neck, and/or
- loss of consciousness
Patients usually describe the headache as “the worst headache of my life” and it is generally different in severity and intensity from other headaches patients may experience.
“Sentinel” or warning headaches may result from an aneurysm that leaks for days to weeks prior to rupture. Unfortunately, only a minority of patients have a sentinel headache prior to aneurysm rupture.
Other signs that a cerebral aneurysm has burst include:
- nausea and vomiting associated with a severe headache
- a drooping eyelid
- sensitivity to light, and
- change in mental status or level of awareness
- seizures (in some individuals)
- brief loss of consciousness or prolonged coma (in some individual)
As a ruptured aneurysm is potentially lethal, anyone experiencing this “worst headache,” especially when it is combined with any other symptoms, should seek immediate medical attention.
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