Brain Aneurysm

A brain aneurysm is an abnormal ballooning of a portion of an artery that weakens the wall of the blood vessel. Defects in the artery wall, high blood pressure, cholesterol buildup, congenital weaknesses, and in some cases, pregnancy, may be responsible. Intact brain aneurysms usually have no symptoms. In the case of rupture, low blood pressure, high heart rate, lightheadedness, severe headache (worse ever), sensitivity to light, stiff neck, and symptoms of stroke may occur. Physical and ultrasound examination as well as a CT scans are frequently used to evaluate brain aneurysms. Surgery is generally recommended with a favorable prognosis. In some cases, an endovascular stent is used to prop open a vessel. Control of high blood pressure as well as risk factors associated with atherosclerosis disease (diet, exercise, cholesterol control) may help prevent brain aneurysms or their complications.

Brain Aneurysm Support Group

The Brain Aneurysm Foundation and Florida Hospital Neuroscience Institute continue to offer Brain Aneurysm Support Group meetings at Florida Hospital Orlando. Harold Fernandez, MD, Brain Aneurysm Foundation-Florida, Director, and one of the neuro nurses facilitate each meeting. The support group is for survivors of brain aneurysms, caregivers, family, and friends. For more information, go to www.bafound.org or contact Laurie.Schott@flhosp.org or Dr. Harold Fernandez at bafoundflorida@hotmail.com.

To learn more about brain aneurysms and our treatment options, call (407) 303-7944 or contact us online.