Customer question:
What is an aneurysm? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
An aneurysm is an abnormal expansion or bulge in the wall of a blood vessel. It most often occurs in arteries but can also occur in other types of vessels, such as veins.
An aneurysm usually occurs when the vessel wall weakens, leading to a bulging or widening of the vessel at that location.
There are two main types of aneurysms:
- An abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is a bulging or enlargement of the abdominal aorta, a large artery that supplies blood to the lower body. If it ruptures, it can cause severe internal bleeding.
- Intracranial aneurysm: an aneurysm occurs in the arteries of the brain. Intracranial aneurysms are especially dangerous because they can rupture and cause bleeding in the brain, which can lead to a stroke, stroke, or even death.
Aneurysms can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later in life (called acquired). Some aneurysms are minor, cause no symptoms, and are only discovered incidentally during medical imaging, such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Other aneurysms, however, may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, back pain, headaches, visual disturbances, or neurological symptoms, depending on the location and size of the aneurysm. Aneurysm treatment may include monitoring, medication, or surgery, depending on the type and size of the aneurysm and the risk of complications. Read more about aneurysms in general.
Which type of aneurysm is the most dangerous?
The most dangerous type of aneurysm is an intracranial aneurysm that occurs in the arteries of the brain. Intracranial aneurysms can be unstable and can rupture, causing bleeding in the brain. A ruptured aneurysm can cause a severe stroke, which can lead to disability or even death. Many intracranial aneurysms are asymptomatic and difficult to detect before they rupture. This means that people with this type of aneurysm may not be aware of their condition and may not see a doctor in time. A ruptured intracranial aneurysm can cause rapid and severe bleeding in the brain, which can lead to death or permanent neurological damage if not treated immediately.
However, other types of aneurysms, such as abdominal aortic aneurysms, can be just as dangerous, especially when they rupture. Abdominal aortic aneurysms can cause severe, life-threatening internal bleeding if not treated promptly.
Interesting reading: Aneurysm in the head
Interesting reading: Aortic aneurysm
