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Warning-sign checks

Brain aneurysm: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Sudden severe headache, seizure, fainting, new weakness, trouble speaking, or marked confusion requires emergency care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up plans are tailored to the aneurysm and the treatment used.

    A person with an observed aneurysm may need periodic imaging to look for growth or a change in shape.

    There is no single imaging schedule that is right for every patient.

    Routine appointments may address blood pressure, smoking, recurring headaches, medication questions, and emotional health.

    After a hemorrhage, follow-up may also include physical, occupational, speech, or cognitive rehabilitation.

The article also says

After clipping or endovascular treatment, imaging may be used to confirm that the aneurysm remains closed and the nearby artery stays open.

Some devices require longer-term monitoring.

People treated with a stent or flow diverter may also receive antiplatelet medicine to reduce clot formation; it is important not to stop this medicine without advice from the treating team.

Contact the treating clinician for new but nonemergency symptoms, increasing headaches, medication side effects, or questions about activity.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Brain aneurysm. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.