Hearing that you or a loved one has a brain aneurysm can be frightening. The diagnosis often brings a wave of fear, confusion and uncertainty. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed.
The good news is that you can take steps to manage your health. By asking the right questions to your physician, you can make informed decisions with confidence. Below is a guide to help you understand your diagnosis, suggest key questions to ask your doctor and explain why getting a second opinion is a valuable step as you move forward.
What is a Brain Aneurysm?
In simple terms, a brain aneurysm is a weak or thin spot on a blood vessel in the brain that bulges out and fills with blood. Think of it like a small balloon on the side of a garden hose.
While the main concern is that an aneurysm could rupture and cause bleeding in the brain — a serious medical emergency that can be fatal — it’s important to know that many aneurysms do not rupture.
The Brain Aneurysm Foundation estimates 1 in 50 people in the U.S. are living with an unruptured brain aneurysm.
Treatment options and the level of risk depend on several factors, including the aneurysm’s size, location and your overall health. Your medical team will help you understand your specific situation.
7 Questions to Ask Your Doctor About a Brain Aneurysm
When you meet with your doctor, having a list of questions can help you feel more prepared and ensure you get the information you need. Here are seven questions to start the conversation.
1. What type of brain aneurysm do I have?
Not all aneurysms are the same. They can be saccular (a rounded sac), fusiform (bulging on all sides of the artery) or mycotic (caused by an infection weakening the artery wall).
The type of aneurysm can influence treatment recommendations, so understanding what you have is a crucial first step.
2. What is the risk of rupture in my specific case?
This is likely the most pressing question on your mind. The risk of an aneurysm bursting depends on its size, location and shape. Your personal and family medical history also play a role.
For example, a small aneurysm (less than 7 millimeters) located in a less critical area of the brain is generally considered to have a lower risk of rupture, while a larger aneurysm or one located at the base of the brain may carry higher risk.
Discuss your individual risk factors with your doctor to get a clear picture.
3. What are my treatment options?
Depending on your situation, treatment might range from careful monitoring to surgery.
Common treatments include:
- Observation: Also known as “watchful waiting,” where your doctor monitors the aneurysm with regular imaging.
- Endovascular coiling: A less invasive procedure where a catheter is guided to the aneurysm, where individualized treatments are specific for the type of aneurysm you have been diagnosed with.
- Surgical clipping: This open brain surgery involves placing a tiny metal clip at the base of your aneurysm to cut off its blood supply.
4. What lifestyle changes should I make?
You can take steps to support your brain health. Managing high blood pressure is one of the most effective things you can do. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, lowering stress and getting enough sleep are equally as important.
If you smoke, quitting is essential, as smoking is a major risk factor for aneurysm growth and rupture.
5. What warning symptoms should I watch for?
If an aneurysm ruptures, it is a life-threatening emergency. The classic symptom is a sudden, severe headache, often described as “the worst headache of my life.”
Other warning signs can include:
- Nausea
- Blurred vision or pain above/behind the eye
- Weakness or numbness
- Difficulty speaking
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
6. How often will I need follow-up imaging?
If your treatment plan is observation, you will need regular imaging tests like MRIs or CT scans to monitor the aneurysm for any changes in size or shape. Your doctor will create a follow-up schedule tailored to you. Understanding this timeline can provide peace of mind and ensure any changes are caught early.
7. Should my family members be screened for a brain aneurysm?
Brain aneurysms can have a genetic link. The American Stroke Association suggests that people with two or more close relatives (a parent, sibling or child) who have had a brain aneurysm may want to consider screening.
Talk to your doctor about your family history to decide if screening is right for your relatives.
Why a Second Opinion Matters
Seeking a second opinion is a standard and often encouraged part of the medical process. It’s not a sign of distrust in your current doctor. Instead, it’s a way to become as informed as possible about your health.
A second opinion can:
- Confirm your diagnosis and treatment plan, giving you greater confidence.
- Introduce new or different treatment options you may not have considered.
- Provide peace of mind that you have explored all avenues.
A brain aneurysm diagnosis is serious, but it’s also the first step toward getting the care you need. By asking questions, staying informed and working closely with your medical team, you can take an active role in your treatment and recovery.
Stony Brook Medicine is a leader in pioneering minimally invasive treatments for brain aneurysms. The vast majority of aneurysms that require treatment can be managed here using the latest advanced endovascular techniques and technologies. Our team is committed to offering the safest, most effective solutions to help you achieve the best possible outcome. For more information about brain aneurysm or to book a second opinion, call (631) 444-1213.
