Aneurysm Symptoms: Warning Signs, Risk Factors & When to Seek Care

Aneurysm symptoms, such as a severe headache, a strong pulsing feeling in the belly, or chest pain, usually appear when the aneurysm becomes very large and starts pressing on nearby nerves or organs.

An aneurysm is a bulge (dilation) in the wall of an artery. The most commonly affected arteries are the aorta, which carries blood out of the heart, and the arteries of the brain, which carry blood to the brain.

Aneurysm symptoms can be intense and may include severe pain, confusion, a fast heartbeat, or loss of consciousness, especially if the aneurysm ruptures. A rupture is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention in the hospital.

Main symptoms

Aneurysm symptoms vary based on the location of the aneurysm in the body.

1. Cerebral aneurysm symptoms

The main symptoms of a cerebral (brain) aneurysm include:

• Very severe headache that gets worse over time;

• Weakness or tingling in the head or face;

• One pupil becoming larger than the other;

• Seizures;

• Double or blurred vision.

Some people also report a sudden warm sensation or feeling of leaking in the head.

A cerebral aneurysm often causes no symptoms and is most commonly discovered on imaging tests, such as a CT scan. Symptoms tend to appear when the aneurysm becomes large or ruptures.

2. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) symptoms

The main symptoms of an abdominal aneurysm include:

• Strong pulsing sensation in the abdomen;

• Constant pain in the lower back;

• Belly or chest pain;

• Pain that may spread to the groin, buttocks, or legs;

• Pain that may spread to the scrotum in men.

Pain from an abdominal aortic aneurysm can feel deep and last for hours or days, and it does not worsen with movement. If the aneurysm ruptures, symptoms can include severe pain, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness. A rupture is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment in the hospital.

3. Thoracic aortic aneurysm symptoms

• Chest pain;

• Persistent dry cough or wheezing;

• Pain in the jaw or upper back;

• Hoarseness or a weak voice;

• Trouble swallowing or breathing, or shortness of breath.

If a thoracic aortic aneurysm ruptures, symptoms can include severe chest and back pain, dizziness, confusion, heavy sweating, or a rapid heartbeat. These symptoms can be mistaken for a heart attack and it is critical to go to the emergency room right away.

What to do if you suspect an aneurysm

If you have more than one of the symptoms listed above (or any signs that suggest a rupture) seek emergency care right away. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve. Aneurysm symptoms can become life-threatening very quickly.

If a cerebral aneurysm is suspected, see a neurologist as soon as possible. If an aortic aneurysm is suspected, see a cardiologist or vascular surgeon.

Diagnostic tests may include:

• CT scan;

• Ultrasound;

• MRI or MR angiography.

These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide the most appropriate treatment.

What causes an aneurysm?

The specific cause of an aneurysm is not completely known. However, the risk for developing an aneurysm is higher in people who:

• Smoke;

• Have high blood pressure;

• Have atherosclerosis (plaque in the arteries);

• Have had a prior arterial infection.

Other risk factors include a family history of aneurysm and a history of major trauma or strong blows to the body.

When to seek emergency care

Go to the emergency room or call 911 immediately if symptoms of a possible aneurysm rupture appear, such as:

• Severe pain in the head, chest, or back;

• Persistent vomiting and nausea;

• Sensitivity to light;

• Stiff neck;

• Sudden dizziness or trouble walking;

• Rapid heartbeat or heavy sweating;

• Seizures or fainting.

These warning signs indicate a very serious situation that can be life-threatening without urgent treatment.