An aneurysm starts when a weak spot in an artery wall becomes thin and stretched. Eventually, the stretching leads to a saclike pouch that looks like a berry hanging on a stem.

If the pouch ruptures, blood seeps out of the artery and into areas of the brain where it doesn’t belong. A ruptured aneurysm quickly becomes life threatening and requires medical treatment right away.

Most often, a ruptured brain aneurysm occurs in the space between the brain and the thin tissues covering the brain. This type of hemorrhagic stroke is called a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Brain aneurysms are common. But most brain aneurysms aren’t serious and won’t rupture, especially if they’re small. These small aneurysms usually don’t cause symptoms or health concerns. In many cases, they’re only discovered during tests for other conditions.

If a brain aneurysm hasn’t ruptured, treatment may be appropriate. Treatment of an unruptured brain aneurysm reduces your risk of a future rupture. Talk with your healthcare team about the best options for your specific needs.

From the Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Submitted by Nancy Rasmussen, Parish Nurse