In a group of 100 people, around two or three will be living with a brain aneurysm.

A brain aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in the wall of an artery in the brain.

There are no symptoms to detect brain aneurysm, therefore it can exist and remain unnoticed. 

However, a ruptured aneurysm may present a sudden, severe headache - often described as the worst headache of your life, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as seizure and loss of consciousness. 

Around 1 in 300 aneurysms burst, causing people to change rapidly from seemingly healthy to critically ill.

Have a question on brain aneurysms? Ask our specialist now in this limited-time forum!

About Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dr Cheong Tien Meng is an Associate Consultant in the Department of Neurosurgery at the National Neuroscience Institute. He has a clinical interest in the surgical and endovascular treatment of neurovascular conditions. He is involved in research focusing on neuroprotection following intracranial hemorrhage and using computer simulations to assess the risk of brain aneurysms. Dr Cheong has also published numerous articles in various medical journals.

Questions and answers on brain aneurysms

1. Question by Nadirah

Hi Dr,

My mother recently went for surgery due to a ruptured aneurysm. What are some reasons for the rupture? Apart from stress or blood pressure.

Secondly, if an aneurysm is detected early on via a CT scan what happens next?

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Nadirah,

While brain aneurysms are common, most of them do not rupture. We do not currently know the reason why some of them rupture and why some do not, but in general, larger aneurysm are more likely to rupture. While a high blood pressure can contribute to an aneurysm rupture, there have also been cases where aneurysms rupture in patients with normal blood pressure.

If an aneurysm is detected early on a scan, your neurosurgeon would advise you on the risk of it rupturing. Most aneurysms, especially small ones, have very low risk of rupture.

If the aneurysm is deemed to have a low risk of rupture, the patient will undergo routine scans for close follow up. However, if the risk of aneurysm rupture is significant (for example if there are high risk features such as large aneurysm size, sudden increase in size of the aneurysm ), treatment for the aneurysm in the form of either surgery or endovascular treatment (a minimally invasive procedure from within the blood vessel) will be suggested.

2. Question by Val

Dear Dr Cheong,

a) Is there truly no underlying subtle symptoms?

b) Do diet / high cholesterol / blood pressure increase risk of having a brain aneurysm?

c) With onset of terrible headache, what should one do? Quickly head in to A&E to increase survival? How long will it take for the aneurysm to burst after onset of the “worst” headache

Thank you!

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Val,

Before it ruptures, most aneurysms will have no symptoms. Rarely, if the size of the aneurysm is large enough it can cause pressure on nerves surrounding the aneurysm leading to symptoms like blurred vision but these are very rare. The main modifiable risk factors) for having a brain aneurysm are smoking and high blood pressure.

When an aneurysm bursts, the bleeding often only occurs for a fraction of a second. Depending on the intensity of the bleeding, patients can experience a severe headache, while some may become unconscious and go into a coma. The onset of headache is usually the time when the aneurysm actually bursts. Unfortunately, a third of patients with a burst aneurysm will not reach the hospital alive.

A ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency and the aneurysm needs to be treated even if the bleed is small as there is high chance of it rupturing again within the next two weeks.

3. Question by Girja

Dear Dr,

How does one detect aneurisms which are in the brain?

Are there any symptoms one should look for? Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Girja,

Unfortunately, most aneurysms have no symptoms before they rupture. An aneurysm can be detected with specialised scans of the brain to look at blood vessels. It is common for us to find aneurysms when a patient is undergoing a scan for a separate reason.

If an aneurysm is detected on a scan, your neurosurgeon will advise you on the risk of it rupturing. Most aneurysms, especially the small ones, have a very low risk of rupture (less than 1%, in other words is less than the chance of having a fatal car accident while driving).

If deemed to have a low risk of rupture, the aneurysm will be followed up closely with routine scans. Sometimes, if the risk of aneurysm rupture becomes significant (for example if there are high risk features such as large aneurysm size, sudden change in the size of the aneurysm), treatment for the aneurysm in the form of either surgery or endovascular treatment (minimally invasive treatment from within the blood vessel) will be suggested.

4. Question by Khiew

Dear Dr,

Are brain aneurysms hereditary? My father died after 2 strokes. Will I get it too?

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Khiew,

While a small percentage of aneurysms are hereditary, most are not. Most aneurysms occur as a result of ageing when the vessel walls degenerate over time and become weak.

It is also important to find out the cause of your father’s stroke. Most strokes are not caused by a blocked artery in the brain rather than a ruptured aneurysm.

5. Question by Peter

Dear Dr,

My question is: My mum was diagnosed with brain aneurysm in June 2021. Her condition is where not possible to close gap as it's in odd shape. She did not opt for operation and managed to survive through. Today, she is able to eat and walk with assistance and someone by her side.

I would like to know will her condition reoccur or suddenly worsen one day? Is there any way to prevent it from happening again?

I also noticed that on some days my mum is very tired, often taking naps. And some days she be very alert. Is that expected? It seems like a pattern to it, every 2-3 days tired, then alert, then this cycle repeats again. Thanks.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Peter,

After an aneurysm ruptures, the risk of it rupturing again is high within the first 6 months. After that it returns to a regular risk of rupture (in the range of 5% a year). Good blood pressure control can minimise the risk of aneurysm rupture.

After the initial rupture of a brain aneurysm, the patient experience 20 – 30% risk of a subsequent rupture within the first 2 weeks. However, this risk gradually diminishes 6 months after the initial rupture, before stabilising at about 5%/year.  A good control of the blood pressure can minimise the risk of aneurysm rupture.

6. Question by Wong

Hi Dr,

Will flying increase the risk of my brain aneurysm bursting? What about exercise or supplements that increases blood flow? Will that also increase the risk given the higher blood flow? Thank you!

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Wong,

It is understandable that after a diagnosis of aneurysm, there will be anxiety about your aneurysm bursting. Most activities that you have mentioned such as flying or exercising do not increase the risk of aneurysm rupture.

As for supplements, it is crucial to understand that they do not typically boost blood flow to the brain to a level beyond what our body can handle. Our bodies have autoregulatory mechanisms in place, meaning they can adjust and maintain blood flow within a safe range.

7. Question by Ryan

Hi Dr Cheong

I have a 1.5 cm AVM. I underwent a gamma knife radio surgery in May 2023.

Here are my questions:

a) What are the success rate for gamma knife?

b) What can I do to reduce the risk of it rupturing?

c) Is smoking or drinking going to worsen the AVM?

d) I lead very stressful work lifestyle with late nights and early morning. Is this going to cause the AVM to worsen?

e) Is there any supplement that I can take to improve the AVM? Thanks.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Ryan,

Gamma knife treatment is more effective for smaller arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the brain. This is because when the volume is smaller, we can use a higher effective dose of radiation without causing harm to the normal parts of the brain. This helps reduce the chance of complications. However, it's important to know that gamma knife surgery does not instantly get rid of the issue; it takes time to show results.

When it comes to the risk of an AVM rupturing, most of the time, we cannot control it. But there is one thing we can modify and that is controlling high blood pressure. Smoking also increases the risk because it damages the inner lining of blood vessels, making them weaker and more likely to rupture. Having a stressful work lifestyle might raise your blood pressure, and that, in turn, could increase the risk of an AVM rupture. Therefore, it's essential to manage these factors to lower the risk as much as possible. There are unfortunately no supplements which can improve the AVM.

8. Question by Kermaine

Hi Dr,

What is the treatment for brain aneurysm when it ruptures? Before it ruptures, some people experience a headache. Roughly how long later will rupturing occur after the headache?

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Kermaine,

When an aneurysm bursts, the bleeding often only occurs for a fraction of a second. Depending on the intensity of the bleeding, patients can experience a severe headache, while some may become unconscious and go into a coma. The onset of headache is usually the time when the aneurysm actually bursts. Unfortunately, a third of patients with a burst aneurysm will not reach the hospital alive. After the initial rupture of an aneurysm, the chance of it bursting again is high for the first 2 weeks.

When an aneurysm ruptures, the treatment involves addressing the bleeding and taking steps to lower the risk of another rupture. Depending on the severity of the bleeding, the patient might need interventions to manage brain pressure. This could involve surgery to drain excess fluid from the brain or medications.

To prevent a future rupture, the aneurysm would need to be treated. This can be done through either a minimally invasive approach called endovascular treatment (from within the blood vessels) or open surgery which involves clipping the aneurysm. The type of treatment depends on factors such as the patient's overall health and the shape of the aneurysm. Your doctor will consider all these factors and recommend the most suitable treatment for your specific situation.

9. Question by Hoe Fang

Dear Dr Cheong, thank you for availing yourself to answer my question.

I have had a stent inserted in my right carotid artery in 2021. The stent was inserted as my carotid artery had shrunk due to radiotherapy treatment for nose cancer in 2011. The shrinkage resulted in a stroke which thankfully has not impacted my physical capabilities too much.

Recently I started gym exercises, partly to mitigate muscle loss and partly to keep fit. When I strain on some machines, especially those which involve arm muscles, I feel a sharp pain at the right temple area. I am concerned that this might be symptoms of a beginning aneurysm.

I have chronic hypotension with systolic readings of 75 to 90. This was what had caused my stroke as well because I was told that my baroflexors had also been damaged by the radiotherapy 10 years back. I am under annual monitoring for this condition.

Would you be able to tell if the pain I experience when straining at gym machines is putting undue pressure on my blood vessels in the head area and what are the chances of rupturing a blood vessel when exercising, please? Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Hoe Fang,

It is great that you are starting an exercise programme to improve your health. Based on the description of your symptoms, it is unlikely for them to be linked to the formation of aneurysms. Patients typically do not experience symptoms when an aneurysm form, however, may suffer a sudden severe headache or lost of consciousness when the aneurysm rupture.

It is unusual for activities such as strenuous exercises to be the cause of aneurysm formation. Aneurysm forms due to long term high blood pressure and weakening of the blood vessel walls over time, either hereditary or age-related degeneration. If you are concerned about your symptoms, please discuss them with your specialist at your next appointment.

10. Question by Wei Ching

Hi Dr Cheong,

My mom was diagnosed with brain aneurysm and did an operation (clipping) a few years ago. Back then, there were some challenges as we were told her neck veins were small but the operation was successful.  

I had a minor stroke when I was 50 years old (diplopia) and was also told that my neck veins are pretty small as well. 

I am curious if brain aneurysm is hereditary? Am wondering if I should do a scan or lookout for any symptoms? Thank you for your advice.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Wei Ching,

While a small percentage of aneurysms are hereditary, most are not. Most aneurysms occur as a result of process of aging when the vessel walls degenerate over time and becomes weak. Aneurysms which are hereditary tend to occur at a much younger age (below 40 years old).

The size of neck veins is usually not associated with development of aneurysm. If you have had a minor stroke before and underwent a brain scan to look at blood vessels of the brain, it would likely have picked up an aneurysm if there was one present.

In general, we usually do not recommend routine screening for aneurysms unless there's a suspicion of a hereditary cause, especially in cases where individuals have multiple aneurysms at a very young age. The reason for this is that aneurysms are quite common, and only a very small percentage of them rupture.

Surprisingly, many people live with aneurysms throughout their lives without ever experiencing any issues. It is important to understand that having an aneurysm does not mean it will definitely rupture or cause problems. Most aneurysms remain stable and do not have any noticeable symptoms. 

Therefore, the decision to screen for an aneurysm is typically based on specific factors, such as family history or other risk factors, rather than a general recommendation for the entire population. Your doctor can advise you on whether screening is necessary and appropriate for your individual circumstances.

11. Question by Ms Chan

Hi Dr,

I was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm about the size of 3mm in 2017.  Since the diagnosis, I have done yearly CT (with contrast) scans till 2021, and bi-yearly scans since.

The brain aneurysm is said to be stable for now, and I am told by my neurosurgeon to keep a chill life. I have the following questions:

a) At what size of the brain aneurysm will surgery be advised?

b) Are there any pre-symptoms I need to take note of besides a sudden headache?

c) What is the probability of death occurring from a rupture?

Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Ms. Chan,

Fortunately, most small aneurysms do not rupture, and they typically do not grow in size. For a small aneurysm that has not ruptured previously, the risk of rupture is low. As a result, treatment is generally not recommended since the potential risks associated with treatment may be higher than the risk of the aneurysm rupturing.

However, if an aneurysm starts to increase in size or reaches a size above 7mm, treatment may be advised due to the significant risk of rupture. Your neurosurgeon will discuss the various treatment options available if your aneurysm shows signs of growth.

Unfortunately, there are typically no pre-symptoms before an aneurysm ruptures. In the event of a rupture, a third of the cases may fatal, another third of the patients may suffer serious brain injury while the remaining third may experience only a headache.

12. Question by Serene

Hi Dr,

My mum died of brain aneurysm at the age of 51. Is this condition hereditary? Does it increase my chances of getting it?

Can a person who only has borderline or normal blood pressure and LDL level still get brain aneurysm?

Is there any screening for this condition? Since my mum died of it at 51, is there any screening that I should undergo?  I am 56 years old. Thanks.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Serene,

While some aneurysms are linked to hereditary conditions like 'Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease' and other connective tissue disorders, the majority of aneurysms are not hereditary.

Aneurysms can develop for various reasons beyond high blood pressure, and even an otherwise healthy person can be affected. However, the overall risk is slightly lower compared to someone with a history of high blood pressure and smoking

Routine screenings for brain aneurysms in the general population aren't usually recommended for a few reasons. 

Firstly, we don't fully understand how aneurysms develop, grow, and rupture. Without this knowledge, it is challenging to determine who is most at risk, at what age should screening be done or how frequently. When detected, treating small, unruptured aneurysms come with risks that can be significant. The potential harm from treatment may be greater than the risk of the aneurysm rupturing, especially if the aneurysm is small. This may also cause undue anxiety when a person knows that there is an aneurysm in his/her brain even if the risk of rupture is very small. 

The screening process involves using costly and somewhat risky tests like CT angiograms or MRAs. Additionally, even if a screening doesn't find an aneurysm, it doesn't guarantee that the person won't develop one in the future. We lack a clear understanding of how aneurysms naturally progress over time.

In summary, due to uncertainties, risks, and costs associated with screenings, they aren't generally recommended for everyone. However, if there are specific reasons to suspect an aneurysm or if symptoms are present, targeted screenings might be considered based on individual cases.

13. Question by Peter

Dear Dr Cheong,

My wife had a mild stroke with some bleeding on left brain end Sept 23 following a severe headache. Tests CT Scan and MRI show that she has recovered from the ailment.

However, she continues to have frequent headaches. We are very worried over this condition. Can you kindly explain the cause(s) of these frequent headaches and what are the remedies and precautions to take? Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Peter,

While it is common to experience headaches during the acute period immediately following a hemorrhagic stroke, it is unusual to have prolonged headaches resulting from the stroke, particularly after the individual has recovered. 

Headaches can have various causes, ranging from less serious to more concerning issues. If you are uncertain about the symptoms of your headache, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

14. Question by Tony

Dear Dr Cheong,

I have brain aneurysm, and hypertension. What is the best way to prevent it from rupturing, and what symptoms, apart from the catastrophic ones should I watch out for. In other words, are there any early warning signs that the rupture will happen soon? Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Tony,

Hypertension and smoking stand out as the two primary modifiable risk factors contributing to the rupture of aneurysms. Effectively managing these factors provides the best means of reducing the risk of aneurysm rupture. 

Tight control of blood pressure and abstaining from smoking are key lifestyle choices that can significantly contribute to preventing the potentially severe consequences associated with aneurysm rupture.

In the unfortunate event of an aneurysm rupture, individuals may experience a sudden and intense headache. For some, the consequence may extend to a catastrophic neurological event such as coma or even death. Regrettably, there are typically no early warning signs that a rupture is imminent.

15. Question by Mrs Joseph

Dear Dr Cheong,

My husband suffered two strokes in 2023. The first was a brain haemorrhage in February and second was Ischaemia in September.

Just like to find out if aneurysms are related to brain haemorrhage? If yes, is it also linked to ischaemia?  How can we prevent aneurysms from happening especially on a patient who had strokes?

Given the above scenario, can a person take air transport or is it better never to travel in that mode?

Thank you for your time.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Mrs Joseph,

Aneurysms are specifically associated with a less common form of brain hemorrhage known as subarachnoid hemorrhage. This occurs when there is bleeding into the space surrounding the brain. 

On the other hand, brain hemorrhages, also referred to as hemorrhagic strokes, are more commonly caused by conditions such as high blood pressure, which can lead to the rupture of blood vessels in the brain.

In contrast, ischemic strokes result from a blockage in the blood vessels supplying the brain. This blockage prevents the normal flow of blood and, consequently, the delivery of oxygen to the brain. This lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage.

It's important to note that having experienced either a hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke does not inherently increase the likelihood of developing an aneurysm. However, hypertension (high blood pressure) is a common risk factor for both hemorrhagic strokes and the formation of aneurysms. Therefore, managing blood pressure effectively can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of these conditions.

Despite the association between high blood pressure and both types of strokes, as well as aneurysm formation, it's reassuring to know that taking air transport does not elevate the risk of experiencing either a hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke. Similarly, the act of flying does not increase the likelihood of an aneurysm rupture.

16. Question by Susan

Dear doctor,

Here are my questions:

a) Is brain aneurysm related to age? Meaning, the older you get, the higher the risk?

b) If my late mother had a condition known as amyloid angiopathy, am I genetically predisposed to getting a brain aneurysm?

c) Can an active lifestyle and regular exercise prevent an aneurysm catastrophe?

Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Susan,

An aneurysm develops when the large arterial wall weakens, leading to the formation of a thin-walled balloon due to the pressure exerted on the weakened blood vessel walls. As we age, the walls of our blood vessels naturally weaken, making aneurysms more common in older individuals.

In contrast, amyloid angiopathy is a different condition caused by the deposition of abnormal proteins in the walls of small blood vessels. This condition is related to age and is not genetically linked to the formation of an aneurysm.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of high blood pressure, one of the main factors contributing to aneurysm formation. However, since aneurysms can form for various reasons, adopting a healthy lifestyle alone does not completely eliminate the chance of a catastrophic aneurysm event.

17. Question by Hong

Hi Dr,

I would like to take the opportunity to pose the below queries:

My 89-year-old mother had brain aneurysm in 2014 and was admitted into ICU/ICA for a week. She has since recovered after going through weeks of speech therapy and occupational physiotherapy. Doctor was reasonably impressed by her amazing recovery.

My queries are:

• Is brain aneurysm eradicated (cured) after the "coil" is implanted?

• How long will the "coil" be effective ?

• Does it means bulge or ballooning in the artery will not surface after the surgery?

• Are migraine and headache symptoms of brain aneurysm?

• Are dizzy spells related to or caused by aneurysm?

• How can aneurysm be detected proactively? Is MRI required annually?

• What are the food to avoid for person who had aneurysm?

• Is aneurysm hereditary?

Grateful to hear from you as I am unsure of the internet ...

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Hong,

I'm glad to hear that your mom has recovered so well. Endovascular coiling is one of the available treatments for an acutely ruptured aneurysm, aimed at preventing a recurrence of the rupture. Following coiling, there is about a 20% risk of recurrence (meaning the aneurysm coming back), but it's important to note that most coiled aneurysms do not rupture again.

After coiling, close monitoring is necessary to detect any recurrence that might require additional treatment, although many mild recurrences do not necessitate intervention. Typically, follow-up is conducted using MRI, initially on an annual basis and potentially extending to once every two years if the coiled aneurysm remains stable without any signs of recurrence. For someone who have an aneurysm, a healthy lifestyle avoiding smoking and tight control of high blood pressure will help reduce the risk of aneurysm rupture. There is no specific food to avoid or supplements to take.

In the event of an aneurysm rupture, some patients may experience a sudden and severe headache. If you are uncertain about your headache symptoms, it's advisable to consult with your doctor.  

Routine screenings for brain aneurysms in the general population aren't usually recommended for a few reasons. 

Firstly, we don't fully understand how aneurysms develop, grow, and rupture. Without this knowledge, it is challenging to determine who is most at risk, at what age or how frequently should screening be done. When detected, treating small, unruptured aneurysms come with risks that can be significant. The potential harm from treatment may be greater than the risk of the aneurysm rupturing, especially if the aneurysm is small. This may also cause undue anxiety when a person knows that there is an aneurysm in his/her brain even if the risk of rupture is very small. 

The screening process involves using costly and somewhat risky tests like CT angiograms or MRAs. Additionally, even if a screening doesn't find an aneurysm, it doesn't guarantee that the person won't develop one in the future. We lack a clear understanding of how aneurysms naturally progress over time.

In summary, due to uncertainties, risks, and costs associated with screenings, they aren't generally recommended for everyone. However, if there are specific reasons to suspect an aneurysm or if symptoms are present, targeted screenings might be considered based on individual cases.

18. Question by Serena

Dear Dr Cheong,

Thanks for having such a forum. I hope that you can help with my query.

I went for MRI brain scan in Oct 2023 after experiencing a series of episodes when I felt my left limbs feeling numb. The MRI didn't suggest stroke.

But it picked up the following:

MRA of the circle of Willis does not demonstrate flow limiting stenosis or large vessel occlusion in either anterior or posterior circulation.

A tiny 1 mm aneurysm or infundiblum is noted in the left paraclinoid ICA.

I'm concerned about the aneurysm. Do I have to keep going for MRI to check on it?

I'm at a loss as to how to handle this. Is there medication for it? How to prevent rupture?

I'm 55 this year and have been taking BP meds for a few years. Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Serena,

You have what is known as an incidental aneurysm. This means that the aneurysm was discovered by chance during an MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiogram) conducted for reasons unrelated to the symptoms you are experiencing. This situation is quite common, as about 1 in 300 people are found to have an aneurysm incidentally.

It's important to note that, based on the size of your aneurysm, the likelihood of it causing your current symptoms is low. However, ongoing monitoring is necessary to track any potential growth. The risk of rupture is also considered very low at this point.

Your neurosurgeon will guide you on the recommended duration and frequency of follow-up appointments and scans to keep a close eye on the aneurysm's development.

19. Question by Phoebe

Hello doctor,

I had brain aneurysm surgery in November 2021; after that, I had some side effects, for example, being paralysed, unable to communicate, or hearing well.

How long will it take to recover completely? I’m better after 2 years, but I have not recovered completely.

Thank you for your time.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Hi Phoebe,

The extent of recovery varies based on how serious the initial issues are and how the recovery progresses. Each person's recovery is unique, and while minor problems often fully heal, more serious ones may not completely recover. Your neurosurgeon can provide specific guidance for your situation.

20. Question by Yong Ta

Hi Dr,

Recently my mum went for her eye appointment and doctor suggested she consider for eye cataract surgery. As, she has a bit of memory loss, lack of concentration, hearing loss, doctor suggested for anaesthetics where she will sleep through, however there are risks to it such as stroke, etc.

Her aneurysm is on her left side and very close to her eyes. So I am not sure if it will be dangerous for her to go through the surgery. Any thoughts or comments to this?

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Hi Yong Ta,

Cataract surgery typically does not impact an existing brain aneurysm or elevate the risk of its rupture. Aneurysms are usually found in major blood vessels within the brain, whereas cataract surgery is focused on the eye's lens, which is not in close proximity to these blood vessels. For personalised advice regarding your mom's situation, it's best to consult with the anaesthetist, who can provide specific insights into any individual risks.

21. Question by Peggy

Hi Dr,

What are the chances of developing seizures after operation on ruptured aneurysm? Is it a long-term effect and will it diminish over time? Thanks.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Hi Peggy,

Any surgery or injury to the brain carries the potential risk of triggering seizures in the long term. If you have never experienced a seizure before, your overall risk of developing one is lower. However, it's important to be aware that if a seizure does occur following the surgery, the likelihood of experiencing recurrent seizures is significantly higher.

In cases where seizures do happen, long-term management may involve the use of medications aimed at preventing further episodes. The decision to prescribe seizure prevention medications is typically based on an individual's specific situation and the assessment of your specialist.

22. Question by Pricilla

Dear Dr Cheong,

I am 59 years old, female, do not smoking/drinking alcohol.

About 1.5 years ago I did a genomics test.  The result indicates that I am susceptible to brain aneurysm.

So far, I never experienced a serious or severe headache. 

In recent years my blood pressure is higher than in the past, either because of age or covid-19 vaccinations (some of my friends have higher blood pressure after covid-19 vaccinations).

Do I need to do any test (CT, MRI) to double check or re-confirm the genomics report?

In the meantime, what should I do to prevent the occurrence of brain aneurysm?

Looking forward to receiving your reply. Thank you.

Answer by Dr Cheong Tien Meng

Dear Pricilla,

Aneurysm screening is recommended in highly specific and individualised situations. It is advisable to have a discussion with your doctor regarding the results of your genomic test. They can provide guidance on any additional follow-up tests that may be necessary based on your specific circumstances.

Controlling risk factors, especially hypertension (high blood pressure), plays a crucial role in reducing the likelihood of developing aneurysms.

Ref: H24