If I could share one important piece of advice, it would be to be aware of both brain aneurysms and stroke. Many brain aneurysms remain silent until they become a problem. The best form of prevention is identifying and assessing an aneurysm before it ruptures. In the same way, stroke is a relatively common condition that can affect individuals at any age group, and early recognition of risk factors plays a key preventive role in timely interventions for aneurysm-related strokes.
Brain Aneurysm Q&A with Dr. Manish Taneja: Understanding Risk, Symptoms, and Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
A brain aneurysm is often discovered unexpectedly, during a scan for headaches, dizziness, or unrelated concerns. For many patients, this can be an unsettling diagnosis, raising immediate questions about risk, treatment, and what to do next.
- Is this something dangerous?
- Do I need treatment right away?
- Can it be managed without open surgery?
While a brain aneurysm can sound alarming, it is important to understand that not all aneurysms behave in the same way. With advances in medical imaging and treatment techniques, doctors are now better able to assess each aneurysm accurately and determine the most appropriate course of action. In many cases, aneurysms may remain stable and can be safely monitored over time, while others may require treatment to reduce the risk of rupture. This depends on careful evaluation and personalised decision-making, guided by the specific characteristics of the aneurysm and the patient’s overall health. This article is part of our Brain Aneurysm Questions & Answers guide, covering common patient questions about treatment options, recovery, monitoring, and long-term follow-up.
In this Q&A, Dr. Manish Taneja shares insights into how brain aneurysms are assessed, when treatment may be appropriate, and how modern minimally invasive endovascular techniques are used to manage these conditions today. As a specialist experienced in treating vascular conditions across both the brain and body, his approach focuses on clear explanation, balanced advice, and guiding patients through their options with confidence. At our specialized brain aneurysm clinic in Singapore, we provide brain aneurysm care and treatment options at Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic. Our neurointervention specialist, Dr. Manish Taneja from the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, answers these questions asked from our patients about brain aneurysms.
1: What Is a Brain Aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel supplying the brain. It is estimated that brain aneurysms are present in approximately 1–2% of the population, although many remain undetected. They are most commonly identified in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60.
2: What Symptoms Can a Brain Aneurysm Cause?
Many unruptured aneurysms do not cause symptoms. However, if symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Vision problems
- Ongoing headaches
- Difficulty with balance
- Weakness on one side of the face
- A dilated (enlarged) pupil
- Pain above or around the eye
- Short-term memory problems
3. How is a Brain Aneurysm Different from a Stroke?
A brain aneurysm is a weakened area in a blood vessel that can form a bulge. If this bulge ruptures, it can lead to a type of stroke known as a hemorrhagic stroke. This typically occurs suddenly and may present with a severe headache, along with symptoms such as a stiff neck, nausea, loss of consciousness, or other stroke-like signs.
It is also important to distinguish between unruptured and ruptured aneurysms. Unruptured aneurysms often cause no symptoms or only mild, non-specific discomfort, whereas ruptured aneurysms present as a medical emergency with sudden and severe symptoms requiring immediate attention.
- Who Is at Risk of Brain Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms can occur in anyone, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing one. These include high blood pressure, smoking, a family history of aneurysms, and certain underlying vascular conditions, and most common in ages of 40 between 60. In many cases, aneurysms are discovered incidentally during imaging for unrelated symptoms, as they often do not cause noticeable signs when unruptured. This is why awareness of risk factors and timely evaluation can play an important role in early detection and prevention.
4. Do All Brain Aneurysms Need Treatment?
Not all brain aneurysms require immediate treatment. In fact, many can be safely monitored over time, particularly if they are small, stable, and considered low risk. The decision to treat depends on several factors, including the size and location of the aneurysm, its appearance on imaging, and the patient’s overall health and risk profile. In some cases, the risks of intervention may outweigh the potential benefits, making careful observation the most appropriate approach.
When treatment is recommended, it is typically because the risk of rupture is considered significant enough to warrant intervention. The goal is always to choose the safest and most appropriate strategy for each individual, based on a thorough and personalised assessment.
- How are Brain Aneurysms Treated Today?
The treatment of brain aneurysms has evolved significantly over the years. Today, management is highly individualised and depends on several factors, including the size and location of the aneurysm, the patient’s overall health, and the estimated risk of rupture. Treatment options broadly fall into two categories: minimally invasive endovascular techniques and open surgical approaches.
- Minimally Invasive Endovascular Treatment Options
Endovascular treatment has become a central approach in managing many brain aneurysms today. These procedures are performed from within the blood vessels using fine catheters guided by advanced imaging.
- Coiling, where soft platinum coils are placed within the aneurysm to promote clotting and prevent blood flow into the weakened area
- Stenting or flow diversion, which helps redirect blood flow away from the aneurysm and supports healing of the vessel wall
These methods are designed to treat the aneurysm with precision, reduce the need for open surgery in selected cases,
support faster recovery, and less disruption to surrounding brain structures However, suitability depends on the individual case, and careful evaluation is always required before proceeding.
- What Is Endovascular Treatment and How Does It Work?
Endovascular treatment is a minimally invasive technique that allows doctors to treat conditions from within the blood vessels, without the need for open surgery.
- A “Brain and Body” Approach to Vascular Care
At the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, brain aneurysm care is part of a broader interventional approach to vascular health. Patients are assessed by Dr. Manish Taneja, who is experienced in managing conditions affecting both the brain (neurovascular) and the body (peripheral vascular system). This allows for a more comprehensive understanding of vascular conditions and continuity from consultation to treatment and follow-up. Patients can also access minimally invasive, image-guided techniques across multiple areas.
Understanding a brain aneurysm starts with a careful and personalised evaluation. If you would like to review your scans, assess your risk, and explore whether monitoring or minimally invasive treatment may be appropriate, get in touch with us to see how we can support you with clear guidance and specialist care.
Commonly Asked Questions About Brain Aneurysm and Stroke
The mention of a brain aneurysm can be scary, but advancements in modern medicine have significantly improved its diagnosis and treatment. Thanks to the expertise of skilled brain surgeons and rapidly evolving technology, conditions related to the brain, including aneurysms, can be diagnosed accurately and managed effectively, resulting in optimal health. According to SingHealth, one person gets a stroke every hour in Singapore. If you look at risk factors for stroke, stroke is a fairly common condition. While an aneurysm is a precursor to hemorrhagic stroke, not all aneurysms will result in a rupture. However, it is better to acknowledge the substantial risk of an untreated aneurysm, as it can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke.
Stroke and brain aneurysms is becoming increasingly prevalent among the youth as well and more younger females experience additional symptoms such as headaches from their late teens to their 20s. Normal headaches like migraine are common but there can be severe headaches which can be different and serve as warning signs. The Ultimate Guide to Brain Aneurysm post can help you learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this potentially life-threatening condition. Here are some commonly asked questions to gain a deeper understanding of what a brain aneurysm entails, how it is treated by brain surgeons and what to expect.
1: How has the Prevalence of Stroke Evolved in Singapore?
I have been practicing medicine since 1995, specifically in the field of stroke treatment. Over the years, I have seen significant changes and advancements in the way we approach stroke care. Initially, strokes were thought to primarily affect individuals in the 70-90 age range, but as time passed, we began to see younger patients affected by this condition as well. In fact, just recently in 2021, I treated a 6-month-old baby with stroke. It is important to note that strokes can affect anyone, not just the elderly. While the major age group affected is still typically those in their 60s-80s, we have been seeing a fair number of younger patients in recent years.
Understand more about stroke on our blog post, "Stroke: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment."
2: Does Gender, Sex, Physical Height Affect and Increase Your Chances of Stroke Risk?
As a practitioner, I have become quite familiar with the demographics of stroke patients. Typically, in the younger age group of 30s-40s, females are more dominant. However, strokes come in different types, and we often see younger females in their late 30s and early 40s affected by aneurysms or other uncommon vascular conditions. On the other hand, in the older age group, men in their 60s-70s are often affected, with the common age group being 75+. It's important to note that aneurysms are still fairly common in young people.
The prevalence of stroke can be impacted by lifestyle factors such as exercise habits and overall fitness levels. Those with higher risk factors, including high blood pressure, poorly controlled cholesterol, lack of exercise, obesity, and smoking, are more likely to experience stroke. Even in the late 40s, some side effects related to stroke can become apparent. It's clear that stroke is a fairly common condition that affects people across various age groups, and understanding the demographics and risk factors can help in prevention and effective treatment.
3: Do you Find that There is an Increase in Stroke the Pandemic and Work from Home Conditions?
While some may discuss the relationship between both, the truth is that it's more about awareness, lifestyle, and how we live our lives.
4: Do Younger Patients Experience Symptoms like Headaches and Neck Pains that Lead to Stroke?
Younger patients may experience additional symptoms such as headaches and neck pains, which can be concerning for stroke. While it is common for females in their late teens and 20s to experience normal headaches like migraines, severe headaches that are different from their usual headache patterns can be warning signs of something more serious. Severe neck pain and stiffness can also indicate a precursor to stroke.
Fortunately, screening for these warning signs has become easier and more accessible with information readily available. Although this was not always the case, people are now more aware and able to recognize when their headaches or neck pains are severe or different from what they typically experience. It is recommended that people check in on their symptoms on a regular basis, perhaps every few months, to catch any warning signs early and seek appropriate medical attention. Learn more about headaches on our blog post, "Headache: Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment".
5: What Other Warning Signs Should We Look Out for in Ourselves and Other People?
When it comes to stroke, weakness, difficulty talking, and speech issues are commonly known symptoms. In addition, abnormal facial grouping, arm weakness, speech issues, severe headaches, dizziness, balance issues, and difficulty standing up from a chair are also common indicators of stroke.
These symptoms occur due to a lack of blood flow to the brain, which can cause brain cells to die, leading to permanent brain damage or even death. It's important to recognize these symptoms early and seek medical attention immediately. The faster medical help is sought, the better the chances of minimizing the damage caused by the stroke. Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke is essential in order to prevent or reduce the effects of a stroke.
6: What is a Severe Headache?
The nature of headaches, the type of headaches, and the difference in pattern and intensity can determine whether it's just a nagging pain or something more serious, such as a sharp shooting pain that is difficult to tolerate. Learn about the specific types of brain aneurysm headaches caused by the rupture or leakage in the blood vessel of the brain.
7: What is the Screening Process Like?
When it comes to stroke, the first step is to seek a consultation. Unlike heart diseases, which have a very set pattern, the brain is much more complex, and strokes can be very complicated as they vary between individuals. There are different patterns of stroke, which require structured screening to determine the type and severity of the stroke.
Some people may have a blood test and think that they are fine, but family history can indicate something different. In these cases, an MRI scan (which does not involve radiation or injections) may be necessary to get a clear picture of the situation. After an hour-long consultation, patients will have a much better understanding of what's been going on and what steps they need to take in the future. It's also worth noting that strokes can run in families, so there may be a genetic component to some cases.
8: Why is Stroke Becoming Prevalent Among Women Especially in the Younger Demographics?
While it is more common for younger females to experience strokes due to aneurysms or uncommon vascular conditions, males can also suffer from strokes. However, the pattern of stroke in males tends to be more related to blockages in the blood vessels in the brain, which can be due to congenital factors or years of smoking.
The two main types of strokes are blockage vessel and rupture in the brain, and young people can experience both or either of them. Therefore, strokes can occur in both males and females and can have different causes and patterns. Find out more in our article, "How Brain Aneurysms Affect Stroke Risk", on how a brain aneurysm can affect stroke risk leading to to a type of stroke called a hemorrhagic stroke.
9: What Exactly is Numbness in the Leg or Arm?
These are symptoms of overlapping conditions such as pinching of a nerve of the neck or it can be a stroke onset. There are certain patterns. For example if you have numbness of leg or arm on the same side, that is something related to the brain. Each patient is different and what should we do in the event we suspect we might have a stroke or loved ones around us, it is most best to get it checked.
10: Do You Encounter People Who Have Stroke for a Few Days Before Seeking Help?
It is important to pay attention to persistent symptoms, even if they seem minor, as they could be indicative of a serious underlying condition. One of my patients was a 33 year old woman who had been experiencing headaches for 8 days but had not sought medical attention. When she finally did seek help, it was discovered that she had an aneurysm, which required surgery and a one-month hospital stay. While it is true that females can be quite resilient, it is crucial to not overlook symptoms that may require medical attention, regardless of gender or age. Taking prompt action can potentially prevent serious complications and lead to a better outcome.
11: What Should I Do if I Feel I am Experiencing the Onset of a Stroke?
In the event of a suspected stroke, it is crucial to call an ambulance instead of driving or taking a taxi to reach the nearest medical facility as soon as possible. Once at the medical facility, it is essential to provide an accurate history of what has been going on so that the medical staff can offer the best possible management. This will include details such as when the symptoms started, what symptoms have been experienced, and if there are any relevant medical conditions or medications. By providing this information, the medical staff can make a more informed diagnosis and offer the best course of treatment. A decision can be made within half an hour. All you have to do is show up and you will be well taken care of.
In my 25 years of experience working in the medical field, I strongly advise that getting treatment for stroke is crucial. Stroke can be debilitating and once the damage is done, it can be very difficult to recover fully. Therefore, it's essential to prevent a stroke from happening by controlling risk factors and seeking early treatment. If there are concerns about stroke, it's best not to delay seeking medical help. Many people tend to brush off symptoms or feel like it may not be a stroke, but it's always better to err on the side of caution. If you experience any symptoms of stroke, call 995 immediately and seek help. Read about our first part of the top 10 brain aneurysm questions answered by neurologists worldwide and some additional questions you may want to ask your doctor.
Our brain aneurysm clinic in Singapore provides personalized treatment plans to optimize your brain health outcomes for neurological conditions and pain management. To arrange an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja, our neurointervention specialist, connect with us.
Minimally Invasive Treatments at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic
A range of neurointerventional and vascular treatments are available to address conditions such as brain aneurysms, stroke risk, and other circulation-related problems. Using minimally invasive, image-guided techniques, these treatments are designed to target specific conditions with precision while supporting faster recovery and less disruption to surrounding tissues. Swipe to learn more about the different treatment options available and how they may be used in managing conditions across the brain and body.
Brain Aneurysm Resources
Discover brain aneurysm resources that go beyond the basics designed for patients. Understand the meaning of a brain aneurysm condition, the causes, symptoms, signs, and more. Connect with your brain health.
Put Brain Aneurysm on Your Health Radar
Did you experience the worst headache of your life? Thoughts could be racing through your mind. A brain aneurysm is a weak spot in a blood vessel in the brain that can change over time. The key concern is when an aneurysm ruptures, which can disrupt blood flow, affect brain tissue, and lead to serious brain damage. Controllable conditions like high blood pressure can increase this risk and treatment options can depend on the condition. Surgical clipping is one option that prevents blood from entering the weakened area. In many cases, minimally invasive treatments can also be used to restore normal blood flow and reduce risk. We have created structured guides to help you explore each stage in more detail:
A simple (computed tomography) CT scan could be just what the doctor ordered and the first step in early detection and prevention of a brain aneurysm. Come in for an easy consultation with our brain aneurysm specialist in Singapore to be on your health radar.
Other Health Conditions
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic is your “go-to” facility for various neurological conditions and treatments. We invite you to consult with Dr. Manish Taneja, our brain aneurysm specialist. You can also call us at (+65) 6904 8084 for a consultation.