An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery or vein that fills with blood. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aneurysms can occur in any artery or vein in the body, including the brain, heart, intestines, and abdomen. They develop when a portion of the vessel wall becomes thinned or weakened. Most small aneurysms don’t produce symptoms until they grow larger, start leaking blood, or rupture.

Aneurysms can develop at any age but are more frequently seen between the ages of 30 to 60. Symptoms depend on the aneurysm’s location and size. Common signs include sudden headaches, pain in the abdomen, chest, or neck, blurred vision, and skin discoloration, among others.

Most aneurysms are about the size of a small berry. If one ruptures, symptoms can appear abruptly and may require urgent medical care.

Aneurysm Symptoms

Symptoms depend on the location of the aneurysm and whether it is large or has ruptured. General symptoms may include:

  • Sudden headache

  • Abdominal or back pain

  • Discoloration in the lower extremities

  • Dizziness

  • Blurry vision

  • Confusion

Cerebral Aneurysm Symptoms

Cerebral aneurysms develop in the brain’s arteries and typically form near the base of the skull. A large cerebral aneurysm can press against nearby brain tissue and nerves, causing:

  • Pain behind the eyes

  • Facial paralysis on one side

  • Enlarged pupils

  • Drooping eyelids

  • Blurred or double vision

If a cerebral aneurysm bursts, leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage, the brain damage can result in a stroke. Symptoms of a ruptured cerebral aneurysm include:

  • Sudden and severe headache lasting hours or days

  • Double vision

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Stiff neck

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Seizures

  • Loss of consciousness or coma

  • Weakness or paralysis in limbs

  • In some cases, death

Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms

An aortic aneurysm occurs in the aorta, the main artery transporting blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aneurysms in the chest area are referred to as thoracic aneurysms, while those below the chest are known as abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm symptoms include:

  • Sudden chest or upper back pain

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Shortness of breath

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are more common and may cause:

  • Throbbing pain in the back or side

  • Groin pain

  • Pain in the buttocks or legs

  • Discoloration in the lower extremities

Popliteal Artery Aneurysm Symptoms

This aneurysm occurs in the popliteal artery, located behind the knee. While most are asymptomatic, symptoms may develop when the aneurysm enlarges and compresses nearby nerves and veins. Signs include:

  • Leg pain

  • Paresthesia (tingling or pins and needles sensation)

  • Muscle weakness

  • Blood clots (thrombosis)

  • Pulsating mass behind the knee

Splenic Artery Aneurysm Symptoms

A splenic artery aneurysm affects the artery that delivers blood to the spleen. This type accounts for a significant percentage of visceral artery aneurysms (those supplying organs like the spleen, kidneys, liver, and intestines).

Symptoms may include:

  • Abdominal pain that may radiate to the left shoulder

  • Internal bleeding

  • Vomiting blood (hematemesis)

Aneurysm Symptoms in Men and Women

There are no major differences in aneurysm symptoms between genders. However, different types of aneurysms may occur more frequently in men or women.

Cerebral aneurysms are more common in women. Research has shown women are more likely to experience a brain aneurysm rupture, partly due to generally larger aneurysm sizes.

In contrast, abdominal aortic aneurysms are more common in men. Studies have linked higher rupture rates in men to higher smoking rates.

While these trends exist, more research is needed to understand the causes of these gender-related differences.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Aneurysm symptoms often appear suddenly when the aneurysm enlarges or bursts. A ruptured aneurysm can lead to serious complications or death without prompt treatment.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden, severe headache—especially if accompanied by:

  • Double vision

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Stiff neck

  • Light sensitivity

Note that not all aneurysms become large or burst. Many small aneurysms are found incidentally during imaging for unrelated medical issues. Routine screening is recommended for individuals over 65, those with a family history of aneurysms or high blood pressure, and people with a history of smoking.

If a small aneurysm is discovered, your healthcare provider can decide if surgery or medication is needed.

A Quick Review

Aneurysms are abnormal bulges in artery walls that fill with blood and can rupture if they grow large enough. Most small aneurysms don’t cause symptoms, but larger or ruptured ones can lead to severe health issues.

Symptoms vary by location and may include sudden headaches, blurred vision, abdominal or chest pain, and seizures. In severe cases, aneurysms can cause coma or death.

Because symptoms often develop suddenly, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider right away if you notice warning signs. Regular screening is advised for at-risk individuals to catch aneurysms early and pursue preventive treatments if needed.