An aneurysm is a serious vascular condition consisting of an abnormal dilation or bulge in the wall of an artery. 
Imagine a section of a garden hose that has weakened and ballooned out; under pressure, this weak spot can rupture, causing massive and potentially fatal internal bleeding. Although aneurysms can form in any artery, the most common and dangerous are cerebral aneurysms and abdominal aortic aneurysms . Understanding their causes, recognizing their signs, and knowing how to act in an emergency is crucial for saving lives. This article will guide you through all the essential information you need to know.
What exactly is an aneurysm and how does it form?
An aneurysm is not simply a “lump.” It results from the progressive weakening of the three layers that make up the arterial wall. Over time, the constant pressure of the flowing blood (especially if it is high) pushes this weak area outward, creating a sac or a spindle-shaped dilation. The greatest danger is usually not the size itself, but the risk of rupture , which triggers catastrophic bleeding. The most common location in the brain is the Circle of Willis , a network of arteries at the base of the brain, while in the abdomen, the aorta is the most frequently affected artery.
