You’ve Been Diagnosed with an Aneurysm. Now What?

Being told you have an aneurysm can be a shock, but understanding what it means is the first step toward making informed decisions. An aneurysm is a weak spot in a blood vessel wall that can bulge or balloon out. This most commonly occurs in the blood vessels of the brain or the aorta. Some aneurysms never cause problems, while others can lead to life-threatening bleeding if they rupture. 

Brain aneurysms affect about three to five percent of people in the U.S., but most remain undiagnosed until discovered through imaging or after symptoms appear. Knowing the type, size, and location of your aneurysm — and what treatment or monitoring options are available — will help you and your neurological care team choose the safest path forward.

Read on to explore what to do after an aneurysm diagnosis and where to find the best brain aneurysm treatment in Los Angeles. 

What Does My Aneurysm Diagnosis Mean?

An aneurysm is a weak or thin spot in the wall of a blood vessel that can bulge outward, like a balloon. The two most common types are cerebral aneurysms, which occur in the brain, and aortic aneurysms, which affect the body’s largest artery. 

Many aneurysms are discovered before they cause symptoms, and they’re often monitored or treated to prevent future problems. A ruptured aneurysm, on the other hand, is a medical emergency that causes internal bleeding and can be life-threatening. Understanding whether your aneurysm is stable or at risk of rupture is key to choosing the best care plan and protecting your long-term health.

What Are My Aneurysm Treatment Options?

Aneurysm treatment depends on several factors, including the size and location of the aneurysm, whether it has ruptured, and your overall health. Observation with regular imaging is usually the safest option for small, unruptured aneurysms that aren’t causing symptoms. If treatment is needed, there are a few different approaches: 

• Surgical clipping involves open brain surgery to place a tiny clip at the base of the aneurysm to stop blood flow. 
• Endovascular coiling is less invasive and uses a catheter to place soft coils inside the aneurysm, helping it clot and lowering the risk of rupture. 
• Another option, flow diversion, uses a special stent to redirect blood away from the aneurysm so it can heal over time. 

Your neurosurgical specialist will recommend a treatment plan that balances safety and effectiveness based on your unique situation.

What Lifestyle Changes Should I Consider After an Aneurysm Diagnosis?

After being diagnosed with an aneurysm, making key lifestyle changes can play a major role in reducing your risk of complications. 

• Managing your blood pressure is essential since high blood pressure puts added stress on blood vessel walls. This means following a diet low in salt and saturated fats, getting regular exercise, and taking prescribed medications as directed. 
• Nicotine damages blood vessels and increases the chances of aneurysm growth or rupture. Quitting smoking is also one of the most important steps you can take. 
• A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and consistent physical activity helps improve circulation and keep your cardiovascular system strong. 
• It’s also important to limit alcohol intake, as excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and interfere with medications. 

These changes, when maintained over time, support better outcomes and lower the chances of future complications.

How Often Should I Have Follow-Up Appointments for an Aneurysm?

Regular follow-up appointments are a key part of managing an aneurysm safely. Even if your aneurysm isn’t causing symptoms, a good neurosurgeon will want to monitor it closely to make sure it’s not growing or changing. 

Most patients with unruptured aneurysms will need MRI or CT scans every six to 12 months, depending on the size and location of the aneurysm. If your imaging results stay stable, the time between scans may be extended. On the other hand, if the aneurysm shows signs of growth or if new symptoms appear — like headaches, vision changes, or dizziness — your follow-up schedule may be adjusted for more frequent checks. Staying consistent with these appointments helps catch problems early and keeps your treatment plan on track.

What Are the Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention?

If you have an aneurysm, it’s important to know the warning signs of a possible rupture and get emergency help right away. Symptoms of a rupture often come on suddenly and can include: 

• A severe headache that feels like the worst headache of your life
• Blurred or double vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• A stiff neck
• Loss of consciousness

These signs mean that blood may be leaking into the brain, which is a life-threatening situation. If you or someone near you experiences these symptoms, call 911 immediately — fast treatment can save lives and reduce the risk of serious brain damage.

Finding Expert Brain Aneurysm Treatment in Los Angeles

California Neurosurgical Specialists offers a level of aneurysm care that blends advanced surgical expertise with a deep commitment to patient well-being. Led by Dr. Arnau Benet — an internationally trained neurosurgeon known for his precision in treating complex vascular conditions — our clinic provides personalized treatment plans grounded in the latest techniques, including minimally invasive and microsurgical options. 

Our patients receive care in a modern, fully equipped facility in Thousand Oaks designed to support comfort, safety, and streamlined recovery. Our thoughtful, one-on-one approach sets our team apart by ensuring every diagnosis is met with clear guidance, every treatment plan is built around the individual, and every patient is treated like a partner in their own care.

Ready to experience the highest level of neurosurgical care and get the best brain aneurysm treatment in Los Angeles?