An aneurysm develops when a weakened area of wall of a blood vessel balloons, resulting in bleeding. Aneurysms can develop at any time and be different sizes, and are called a cerebral aneurysm when they occur on the brain. An aneurysm can be congenital or develop as a result of infection or trauma.

Symptoms: An aneurysm only presents symptoms when it ruptures. Some symptoms include headache, nausea, confusion, lethargy, vision loss, eyelid dropping, weakness, numbness, seizures, stiff neck, speech impairment, and irritability. An aneurysm can also result in coma or death.

Treatments: When an aneurysm ruptures, emergency medical treatment is needed to control the symptoms and prevent further bleeding. Surgery may be performed to close off the base of the aneurysm with clamps or sutures put in place to prevent blood flow. Coils or stents may also be placed into an aneurysm in order to form a clot. If surgery cannot be performed, bed rest and medications might be utilized to prevent seizures.