Brain Aneurysms: A Common and Often Symptoms-Free Condition

Strategic Insights -

Kim Kardashian's recent diagnosis of a brain aneurysm has sparked concern among the public. However, experts say that aneurysms are surprisingly common and often do not cause problems or require treatment. In fact, the vast majority of people who have a brain aneurysm never get diagnosed and live their entire lives without any issues. According to Dr. Jeremy Lynch, a neuroradiologist at King's College Hospital, London, aneurysms are present in three per cent of people and can be up to a few centimeters long, but are usually only a few millimeters in size.

Key Takeaways:

  • Aneurysms are surprisingly common, affecting three per cent of people.
  • Most aneurysms are small, ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters in size.
  • The condition is more common in women, especially as they get older, although the exact reason is unclear.
  • Smoking and high blood pressure can worsen aneurysms, which are also more likely to occur in families.
  • If an aneurysm bursts, it can be a medical emergency with potentially fatal consequences.
  • However, if an aneurysm does not rupture, it often does not cause any symptoms and may be discovered incidentally during medical imaging for other reasons.
  • Treatments exist to prevent aneurysm rupture, such as stenting, but these also carry risks, including the possibility of stroke.
  • Monitoring is often recommended for those with a low risk of aneurysm rupture, which may never cause a problem.
  • The growing use of MRI brain scans and private whole-body scans are leading to an increase in incidental aneurysm diagnoses.

Statistics:

  • 3%: The proportion of people who are thought to have brain aneurysms.
  • 13%: The proportion of people who are more likely to be advised to have surgery if they have an aneurysm that is larger, irregular in shape, or in the blood vessels that supply the back of the head.
  • 90%: The proportion of people who will have a low risk of aneurysm rupture and will be advised to have regular monitoring.

Sources:

  • Wilson, C. (2023, March 23). Kim Kardashian has been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm. The Guardian.
  • Lynch, J. (Interview). (2023).
  • Booth, T. (Interview). (2023).
  • Middleton, R. (Interview). (2023).
  • Reuters Health Information (2023, February 27). 'Don't ignore brain scans': growing numbers of people are finding they have aneurysms.