A brain aneurysm occurs when there is a weakening in the wall of a blood vessel in the brain, leading to the formation of a bubble. This bubble can remain stable or rupture, causing a brain hemorrhage. The severity of the condition depends on the location and size of the affected vessel.

When the aneurysm ruptures, internal bleeding occurs in the brain, which can be fatal or cause serious damage. However, even an unruptured aneurysm can press on brain structures, causing serious symptoms.

People who have survived a brain aneurysm report that one of the main signs before the rupture was an extremely intense and sudden headache. Differentiating an aneurysm from a migraine can be challenging, but some characteristics may indicate a higher risk:

Severe headache, described as the worst headache of your life;
Sudden onset and no history of migraines;
Accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
If you or someone close to you has an unusual headache, seek medical attention immediately.

In addition to a sudden, severe headache, other signs may indicate an aneurysm. Watch for the following symptoms:

– Sudden drooping of the eyelids
– Double or blurred vision
– Unexpected seizures
– Pain in one eye
– Unexplained nausea and vomiting
– Stiff neck
– Extreme sensitivity to light
– Numbness in part of the face
– Ringing or loud noises in the head
– Momentary loss of consciousness