Brain Aneurysm
Leading-edge diagnosis and brain aneurysm treatment
Brain Aneurysm Specialists in Boston
The Brain Aneurysm Institute at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) provides prompt, effective care for brain aneurysms. When seconds matter, you can count on the experience of our multidisciplinary care team.
From the diagnosis and treatment of a brain aneurysm to surgery, recovery and support, your team at the Brain Aneurysm Institute provides comprehensive, compassionate and personalized care every step of the way.
Brain Aneurysm Symptoms
Unruptured brain aneurysms usually don’t cause any symptoms. Most of these aneurysms are small, less than half an inch across. But larger aneurysms can press on the brain or the nerves in the brain, which can cause symptoms such as:
- Headache in one area
- Dilated pupils
- Blurred or double vision
- Pain above or behind the eye
- Weakness or numbness
- Trouble speaking
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you notice any of these sudden symptoms, get medical help right away:
- A sudden, very severe headache — the worst headache of your life
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Sudden blurred or double vision
- Sudden pain above or behind the eye, or trouble seeing
- Sudden confusion or trouble thinking clearly
- Trouble walking or feeling dizzy
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Sensitivity to light
- Seizures
- Drooping eyelid
Brain Aneurysm Causes
Brain aneurysms often develop silently, without symptoms, and most form gradually over time due to normal wear and tear on the arteries throughout a person’s life.
In some people, an inherited tendency toward weak blood vessels may increase the risk of developing an aneurysm. Aneurysms in children are rare. In uncommon cases, infection or severe head trauma can lead to their formation.
Several risk factors may also contribute to the development of brain aneurysms, including:
- Cigarette smoking
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Age over 40
- Drug use (especially cocaine)
- Excessive alcohol use
- Female gender (women have a higher risk)
- Race (people of color have a higher risk)
- Genetic or connective tissue disorders such as polycystic kidney disease, fibromuscular dysplasia, and Marfan syndrome
Patient and Family Education
Compassionate support is a hallmark of our program. Our doctors, nurses and other caregivers at BIDMC will help you and your family learn about these issues:
- Your diagnosis, testing and any necessary preparations
- Procedures or operations you need
- Your recovery and medications
- Your return home and follow-up care
Supportive Services
We can help you and your family navigate your care, arrange appointments and coordinate other recovery and support resources you might need.
Advancing Care, Research & Education
Department of Neurology
The Department of Neurology offers exceptional patient care, education opportunities and research programs.
Neurology Research
Our top-tier research programs and laboratories work to advance the knowledge and treatment of neurological disorders.
Neurology Education
Our team offers comprehensive education and training programs for healthcare professionals, including fellowships and residencies.
