If you’re fact-checking this headline, aneurysms can be dangerous but often cause no symptoms until they become large or rupture. The warning signs depend on where the aneurysm is located. (Mayo Clinic)
Signs that shouldn’t be ignored
For a brain aneurysm:
- A sudden, extremely severe headache—often described as the worst headache of your life
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Sudden vision problems
- Confusion, seizure, or loss of consciousness
- Facial weakness or numbness, or difficulty speaking (Mayo Clinic)
For an abdominal aortic aneurysm:
- Persistent or sudden severe abdominal or back pain
- A pulsing sensation in the abdomen
- Dizziness, fainting, or weakness if the aneurysm ruptures
🚨 Emergency warning
A sudden, severe headache, especially with vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizure, weakness, or loss of consciousness, can indicate a ruptured brain aneurysm and requires immediate emergency medical care. (Mayo Clinic)
Importantly, many unruptured aneurysms have no symptoms, so symptoms alone cannot rule one out. Risk is higher with factors such as smoking, uncontrolled high blood pressure, and certain family or genetic conditions. (Mayo Clinic)
