Neurosurgeon Logo
where_do_brain

Where Do Brain Aneurysms Commonly Develop?

Brain aneurysms can be a silent danger for a human body, and it is more serious than its name looks. This condition often goes unnoticed until it becomes a life-threatening emergency, and it can be possible only if you completely understand what brain aneurysms are and how they develop. So if you are looking for complete information on brain aneurysms, then this blog will help you provide all necessary information, especially the location of brain aneurysms, and this will help you prevent this serious disease in the early stage.  

What Is a Brain Aneurysm?

  • A brain aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning of a blood vessel in the brain. 
  • It occurs when the arterial wall weakens, allowing it to expand like a bubble. 
  • If it ruptures, it can cause a hemorrhagic stroke, which is a medical emergency. 

Think of it as a weak spot in a tire that can blow if not treated in time.

Also Read: 👉 Top 13 Signs When You Should Visit a Neurosurgeon

Why Location Matters

  • Not all brain aneurysms are equal—where they form plays a crucial role in symptoms and risks.  
  • Aneurysms tend to develop in high-pressure areas of the brain’s blood vessels. 
  • Certain locations are more prone due to branching arteries and turbulent blood flow. 

Knowing the hotspots can guide diagnosis and intervention.

Also Read: 👉 Brain and Spine Care in the UAE: A Look into Neurosurgical Expertise

1. Circle of Willis – The Aneurysm Hub

  • The Circle of Willis is just like a ring structure that interconnects arteries at the base of the brain. 
  • Most brain aneurysms (up to 90%) occur in or near this circle. 
  • It’s a central hub where arteries divide and connect, making it vulnerable. 

If brain arteries had traffic intersections, this would be the busiest one.

2. Anterior Communicating Artery (AComA)

  • Aneurysms here are the most common type. 
  • Located at the front part of the Circle of Willis. 
  • Ruptures often cause vision problems, behavioral changes, or memory loss. 

Small artery, big danger—often leads to severe bleeding if ruptured.

Also Read: 👉 Latest Advances in Brain Tumor Treatment in Dubai

3. Posterior Communicating Artery (PComA)

  • Another frequent aneurysm site connecting the internal carotid artery to the posterior cerebral artery. 
  • Can press on the optic nerve, which simply causes double vision or eye pain before rupture. 
  • More common in older adults and women. 

When aneurysms press on nerves, your vision may warn you.

4. Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA)

  • Located on the sides of the brain, branching from the internal carotid artery. 
  • MCA aneurysms may cause speech difficulties, limb weakness, or facial drooping. 
  • Often affect the cerebral cortex, involved in movement and sensory processing. 

Aneurysms here hit your brain’s control panel—act fast.

Also Read: 👉 Headache vs. Brain Tumor – How to Know the Difference

5. Basilar Artery Tip

  • It can be found deep inside the brain, where the basilar artery splits into posterior cerebral arteries. 
  • Rupture can cause dizziness, balance issues, and even coma. 
  • These are challenging to access surgically and carry a higher risk. 

Rare, but dangerous—this deep-seated aneurysm needs expert care.

6. Internal Carotid Artery (ICA)

  • A major artery supplying blood to the brain. 
  • ICA aneurysms can affect vision, eye movement, and cause headaches. 
  • Can also compress nearby structures before rupture. 

Located near the eye, so vision changes may signal a brewing problem.

Also Read: 👉 Top 13 Signs When You Should Visit a Neurosurgeon

Common Symptoms to Watch Out For

Aneurysms often have no symptoms until they rupture, but some warning signs may appear:

  • Sudden severe headache (“worst headache of your life”) 
  • Blurred or double vision 
  • Neck stiffness or pain 
  • Drooping eyelid or pupil changes 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Loss of consciousness in severe cases 

Head pain that feels unusual or intense deserves immediate medical attention.

Also Read: 👉 Headache vs. Brain Tumor – How to Know the Difference

Risk Factors for Aneurysm Formation

  • Genetics – family history of aneurysms 
  • High blood pressure – adds stress to vessel walls 
  • Smoking – damages blood vessels over time 
  • Drug use – especially stimulants like cocaine 
  • Age and gender – more common in women over 40 

The more risk factors you have, the more vigilant you should be.

Also Read: 👉 Brain and Spine Care in the UAE: A Look into Neurosurgical Expertise

How Are Aneurysms Detected?

  • CT or MRI scans help detect bleeding or bulging arteries. 
  • CT angiography (CTA) and MR angiography (MRA) visualize blood vessels. 
  • In some cases, cerebral angiograms are done for precise diagnosis. 

Early imaging saves lives—don’t ignore symptoms.

Treatment Options: What Happens Next?

  • Observation – for small, unruptured aneurysms with low risk 
  • Surgical Clipping – sealing off the aneurysm with a metal clip 
  • Endovascular Coiling – inserting coils via catheter to block blood flow into the aneurysm 
  • Flow Diversion – using a stent to reroute blood flow and shrink the aneurysm 

Treatment depends on size, location, and patient health.

Also Read: 👉 What Is Neurosurgery? Exploring The Field And Its Importance

Final Thoughts: Awareness Can Save Lives

Brain aneurysms may be silent, but they don’t have to be deadly. Understanding where they develop—especially around the Circle of Willis and major arteries—can guide early detection and treatment. If you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms or risk factors, don’t wait—contact one of the best neurosurgeons in Dubai, such as Dr. Arun Rajeswaran.

Edit Template

Dr. Arun Rajeswaran

Dr. Arun Rajeswaran

Consult Dr. Arun with a professional experience of more than 13 years in the field of Neurosurgery

Get In Touch

© 2024 All Rights Reserved.
Carefully Crafted By DigeeSell