Are Small Brain Aneurysms Dangerous?
Are small brain aneurysms dangerous? Learn about their risks, symptoms, monitoring, and when to seek treatment with our specialized brain aneurysm clinic in Singapore, the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic.
Understanding Small Brain Aneurysms
A bulging or ballooning of a blood vessel in the brain is known as a brain aneurysm. There are various types of brain aneurysms. The saccular aneurysm is the most common. Lesser found forms of brain aneurysm include a fusiform aneurysm and a mycotic aneurysm. Small aneurysms, 5 mm or smaller, are less likely to cause health problems than larger ones. Read more about brain aneurysm sizes in our other informative article here.
A brain aneurysm occurs when there is a weakening in the wall of a brain artery, which often is an inherited issue. Other factors include trauma and high blood pressure.
Brain aneurysms are quite common and most individuals who have one can go through life without any major complications, especially if the aneurysm remains small. In June 2023, it was estimated that 3 out of 100 people in Singapore have some form of brain aneurysm.
This article is part of our guide to brain aneurysm imaging, screening, and diagnosis. For a complete overview, visit our Brain Aneurysm MRI and CT Scans guide.
The Risks of Small Brain Aneurysms
Most brain aneurysms form between the ages of 35 and 60 and women are more likely to develop one than men.
While small brain aneurysms are less of a concern, they may grow over time and no matter the size, there is a risk of rupture, although that is less likely in smaller ones.
Just where the aneurysm is situated can be of concern for a possible rupture, too, with an aneurysm in the posterior communicating artery being of the highest risk. Aneurysms that are irregular in shape rather than round also face a higher risk of rupture.
Brain Aneurysms Symptoms and Detection
You can have a small brain aneurysm without experiencing symptoms. However, for some with an unruptured aneurysm symptoms could include the following:
- Headache
- Pain above or behind one eye
- Blurred or double vision
- A dilated pupil in one eye
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the face
If you have a family history or are experiencing symptoms that could point to an unruptured brain aneurysm, you should make an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja at the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic in Singapore. Even smaller aneurysms may require monitoring when symptoms or additional rupture risk factors are present.
For a possible diagnosis of an unruptured brain aneurysm, Dr. Manish will discuss your medical history and any potential symptoms. He may then order a CT scan and/or MRI for a complete image of the brain. Additionally, a possible angiogram may be suggested to help identify the size, shape, and exact location of a small brain aneurysm.
Monitoring Small Aneurysms
If a small aneurysm is found, CT and MRI scans on an ongoing basis are recommended to monitor the size and possible further development of that aneurysm. The frequency will depend upon the size, shape, and location of the aneurysm, as well as individual risk factors. Even smaller aneurysms may become unstable when exposed to chronic high blood pressure and abnormal blood flow stress.
Treatment Options for Small Brain Aneurysms
In many cases, no treatment may be necessary for a small aneurysm other than monitoring. However, It is important for you to follow a treatment plan designed specifically for you, and to ask any questions to ensure a full understanding.
If a small brain aneurysm should grow, or if you start suffering symptoms, possible intervention methods such as endovascular coiling or surgical clipping may be recommended. Certain rare aneurysm types, including blister aneurysms, may remain small in size while still carrying significant rupture risk.
Living With a Small Brain Aneurysm
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for those living with a small brain aneurysm diagnosis. Key lifestyle choices should include:
- Regular exercise as recommended by your physician
- Eating a balanced diet
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Keeping hypertension under control and routine monitoring of such
- Quitting smoking
- Refraining from alcohol and recreational drugs
Being diagnosed with a small brain aneurysm may be cause for concern however managing any anxiety you may experience is important. Reducing other forms of stress while following positive lifestyle choices can help you manage your anxiety.
Visit the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic for Small Brain Aneurysm Detection and Treatment
Whether you or a loved one is diagnosed with a small brain aneurysm, most can be safely managed through proper monitoring. If you have concerns about a possible brain aneurysm, contact the Supreme Vascular and Intervention Clinic in Singapore to make an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja for an evaluation.
Consult a Seasoned Brain Aneurysm Specialist
A consultation at our brain aneurysm clinic in Singapore allows for timely intervention and improved outcomes. It's important to receive professional treatment and care in the hands of the right doctor for you or your loved one.
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic offers state-of-the-art care and latest treatment options with brain aneurysm specialist, Dr. Manish Taneja. The newer technologies available for treating brain aneurysms enables him to treat almost all types of brain aneurysms using interventional techniques without open surgery. Arrange your appointment today.
Brain Aneurysm Resources
Explore our brain aneurysm resources. Understanding a brain aneurysm often involves learning across several areas.
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 conditions and treatments. To arrange an appointment with Dr. Manish Taneja, our brain aneurysm specialist, contact us. You can also call us at (+65) 6904 8084 for a consultation.