Aneurysm is a medical condition that poses a significant threat to human health, yet it often goes undiagnosed until it becomes life-threatening.
This silent but dangerous condition can affect various parts of the body, including the brain, aorta, and other major blood vessels.
What is an Aneurysm?
An aneurysm refers to the abnormal widening or ballooning of a blood vessel caused by a weakened vessel wall.
Over time, the pressure of blood flowing through the weakened area can cause the vessel to bulge and potentially rupture, leading to severe complications.
While aneurysms can occur in any blood vessel, they are most commonly found in the brain (cerebral aneurysm) and the aorta (aortic aneurysm).
Causes and Risk Factors: The exact causes of aneurysms are still not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified:
- High Blood Pressure: Chronic hypertension puts extra stress on the blood vessel walls, potentially weakening them over time.
- Smoking and Substance Abuse: Tobacco smoking and the use of certain illicit drugs, such as cocaine, have been linked to an increased risk of aneurysm formation and rupture.
