ballooned blood vessels, Burlakoti explains.
Where the front part of the brain arterial network differs in left and right diameter ratio by up to 1.4, people have an 80% risk of developing aneurysms in that area, the most common location of ruptured aneurysms.
Those with symmetrical ratios below 1.4 have an 8% equivalent risk, the researchers note.
“A lot of small, unruptured aneurysms go undetected in commonly used imaging techniques. They may not be diagnosed until they grow sufficiently to cause symptoms or rupture, often when it is too late,” Burlakoti adds.
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Symptoms of ruptured aneurysms
Because aneurysms often go undiagnosed until they rupture, it is important that you recognize the symptoms:
- sudden, severe headache
- double vision
- nausea and vomiting
- a stiff neck
- muscle weakness
- confusion
- seizures
- cardiac arrest
If you notice any of the above symptoms, consult with your doctor immediately. If found early, aneurysms can be monitored and slowed by controlling blood pressure with medication, diet and lifestyle changes.
They can also be removed with an operation, but that can be risky and cause brain damage or stroke. It’s only recommended if there is a high risk of rupture.