Risk factors for brain aneurysm

Some people are more likely to develop a brain aneurysm due to genetic factors or lifestyle habits. The main risk factors include:

– High blood pressure
– Family history of brain aneurysm
– Smoking
– Excessive alcohol consumption
– Use of drugs such as cocaine
– High cholesterol and cardiovascular disease
– Genetic diseases that weaken blood vessels

If you have one or more of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about preventive measures.

How is the diagnosis made?

To confirm the presence of an aneurysm, doctors use imaging tests such as:

– Computed tomography (CT): Detects bleeding in the brain;
– Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Shows details of blood vessels;
– Cerebral angiography: More accurate exam to visualize aneurysms.

If an aneurysm is suspected, the doctor will indicate the best exam for each case.

Available treatments

Treatment varies according to the size, location and risk of rupture of the aneurysm. Options include:

1. Monitoring

When the aneurysm is small and low risk, the doctor may only recommend regular monitoring to monitor its progress.

2. Surgery

Surgical clamping: Performed through an opening in the skull to close the aneurysm with a clip.
Endovascular embolization: Minimally invasive procedure that inserts coils into the aneurysm to block blood flow.

The type of intervention is defined by the neurosurgeon according to the patient’s condition.

How to prevent a brain aneurysm?

Although it is not always possible to prevent an aneurysm, some measures help reduce the risks:

– Control blood pressure with a balanced diet and exercise
– Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
– Reduce stress and seek moments of relaxation
– Keep medical exams up to date, especially if there is a family history