Brain aneurysm patients should pay attention to risk factors that may trigger rupture, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and excessive stress. Regular medical follow-up and strict blood pressure control are essential for preventing complications.
Lifestyle adjustments for aneurysm patients include avoiding heavy lifting, limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, and ensuring a balanced diet. These measures help stabilize vascular health and reduce rupture risk.
Monitoring symptoms such as sudden severe headaches, vision changes, or neurological deficits is critical. Immediate medical evaluation is necessary if these warning signs occur, as they may indicate aneurysm growth or rupture.
Preventive care for brain aneurysm patients involves adhering to prescribed medications, attending routine imaging scans, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Close collaboration with healthcare providers ensures safe long-term management.
What Lifestyle Changes Should Be Made After a Brain Aneurysm Diagnosis?
Lifestyle changes made by individuals diagnosed with a brain aneurysm are of great importance in the management of the disease and the prevention of complications. In this context, taking certain precautions can be effective in protecting both physical and psychological health.
Quitting smoking:
- Quitting smoking is necessary to protect the health of blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
Reducing alcohol consumption:
- Alcohol consumption should be moderate or completely eliminated.
Healthy nutrition:
- A diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean protein sources
- Avoiding constipation (to prevent excessive straining)
Regular exercise:
- Low-intensity exercises under medical supervision are recommended.
Blood pressure control:
- Regular use of blood pressure medications
- Limiting salt intake
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding stimulants:
- It is important to avoid or use under medical supervision substances such as caffeine and other items that may increase blood pressure.
Medication adherence:
- It is essential to take prescribed medications regularly to manage blood pressure and other related health issues.
Regular health check-ups:
- The condition of the aneurysm should be monitored with regular imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans.
Psychological support:
- Participating in counseling or support groups can help alleviate the emotional burden brought by the diagnosis.
How Should Patients with a Brain Aneurysm Pay Attention to Their Diet?
A healthy diet plays a critical role in the recovery process for patients with a brain aneurysm and can reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Therefore, changes in eating habits should include the following:
- Consuming antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. Especially berries, citrus fruits, and dark green leafy vegetables support brain health.
- Whole grains rich in fiber should be an important part of the diet. Oats, brown rice, and quinoa should be consumed.
- Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids help improve brain function. In this regard, fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel, and flaxseed are recommended.
In addition, fluid intake is important during the recovery process. Until solid foods can be tolerated, liquid foods such as broth should be consumed. During this process, nutritious liquids such as strained soups and fruit juices should be preferred.
Finally, it is necessary to avoid unhealthy foods. Healthier cooking methods should be preferred instead of processed meats, fried foods, and high-fat foods.
What Should Patients with a Brain Aneurysm Pay Attention to When Exercising?
Exercise for patients diagnosed with a brain aneurysm should be done carefully and in moderation. The recommended exercises for these patients are generally of moderate intensity and low impact. Especially walking, cycling, and swimming support cardiovascular health without excessively increasing blood pressure. These exercises help maintain general health while minimizing the risk of aneurysm rupture.
Moderate Exercises:
- Walking
- Cycling
- Swimming
It is essential to avoid high-intensity and strenuous physical activities. Such activities can significantly increase heart rate and blood pressure, which increases the risk of aneurysm rupture.
Activities to Avoid:
- Weight lifting
- Intense aerobic exercises
Patients should gradually increase their exercise programs. If any unusual symptoms are observed after exercise, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Low-Impact Exercises:
- Yoga
- Tai chi
These exercises provide benefits in terms of flexibility and stress reduction and do not place unnecessary pressure on blood vessels. Exercise routines should be adjusted to the patient’s current health status with regular medical consultations.
What Medical Check-Ups and Follow-Ups Should Patients with a Brain Aneurysm Have Regularly?
Regular medical check-ups and follow-ups are of vital importance for patients with a brain aneurysm to protect their health. The follow-up schedule should be meticulously implemented to ensure that the patient’s condition remains stable and to prevent possible complications. Primarily, patients undergo various imaging tests at certain intervals to assess the success of treatment processes:
Digital Subtraction Angiography:
This test is especially preferred before treatment to determine the treatment decision and method, as well as in the early and long-term follow-ups after treatment.
Magnetic Resonance Angiography:
This is used as a non-invasive method in the period following treatment.
Computed Tomography Angiography:
Advanced technology provides clearer results and allows for the reduction of metal artifacts.
In addition to imaging tests, patients should be monitored regularly. The first imaging test is usually performed within the first six months after treatment. This check-up ensures the early detection of possible in-stent stenosis, whether the aneurysm has completely closed, or other abnormalities after treatment. If no such findings are detected, the decision to reduce dual antiplatelet therapy to a single agent is made. In long-term follow-ups, repeated tests in the first, third, and fifth years after treatment allow monitoring of the patient’s condition. Controls every five years monitor the formation of new aneurysms. In addition, patients should undergo regular check-ups for symptoms such as headache, visual changes, and neurological deficits.
In the postoperative period, additional imaging tests are performed to check the status of the clip or coil placed surgically. Medications determined according to individual health status are used to manage complications and control symptoms. In addition, lifestyle changes such as regulating blood pressure, not smoking, and adopting healthy eating habits are regularly evaluated.
How Should Patients with a Brain Aneurysm Manage Stress?
Medication use in patients with a brain aneurysm requires special attention. Some medications may increase the risk of bleeding or rupture, so they should be used carefully under medical supervision. The relevant drug groups and points to consider are as follows:
- Blood Thinners and Anticoagulants
- Antiplatelet Agents
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These medications should be used in a controlled manner as they increase the risk of bleeding. However, it is also known that there are studies suggesting that aspirin may reduce aneurysm bleeding, but if bleeding occurs before treatment, it may prolong the bleeding time. Individuals who must use blood thinners (for example, those with coronary stents) should have their medication regimen organized and supervised by experts in this field. In addition, antihypertensive medications play a critical role in managing the risk of brain aneurysm rupture. These include beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. Illegal substances, especially cocaine, increase the risk of rupture by raising blood pressure and should definitely not be used. Hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives can also affect clotting and should be used under medical supervision.
What Should Patients with a Brain Aneurysm Pay Attention to Regarding Medication Use?
People with a brain aneurysm should be especially careful when traveling by plane. Undergoing a medical check-up before travel ensures that necessary approvals are obtained for flying. This is especially true for those who have recently undergone aneurysm treatment. Planning the most suitable timing with your doctor to reach a stable health condition will be beneficial.
Medical Consultation:
Consult your doctor before travel and obtain necessary medical approvals.
Timing:
Avoid flying for the duration recommended by your doctor after treatment.
Flight Duration:
If possible, prefer short flights; long flights may pose a risk.
Fluid Intake:
Drink sufficient water during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
Reducing Stress:
Wear comfortable clothing during the flight and use relaxation techniques.
Medical ID:
Carry an ID stating your medical condition to provide information in case of emergencies.
Monitor Symptoms:
Be vigilant for symptoms such as severe headache or blurred vision, and seek medical help if necessary.
Avoid High-Risk Situations:
Avoid flying if new or severe symptoms occur, and consult your doctor.
Treatment Options for Individuals with a Brain Aneurysm
There are various methods developed for the treatment of brain aneurysms. With advancing technology, these methods have become even more effective. The treatment of aneurysms is shaped according to the severity of the condition and the general health status of the patient.
Treatment methods include:
- Microsurgical Clipping:
The neurosurgeon minimally opens the skull to access the brain. A titanium clip is placed at the neck of the aneurysm. This clip prevents blood from entering the aneurysm, thereby minimizing the risk.
- Endovascular Coiling:
Through arteries (from the groin, arm, or wrist), the aneurysm is accessed and coils are placed to block blood flow.
- Flow Diversion:
A stent is placed in the main artery, redirecting blood flow away from the aneurysm.
- Balloon-Assisted Coiling:
For wide-necked aneurysms, a balloon is used inside the vessel during the coil placement. The balloon helps fill the aneurysm and, in case of a possible rupture during coiling, minimizes bleeding until it can be controlled.
- Stent-Assisted Coiling:
The stent keeps the coils in place and helps maintain the vessel’s patency.
- Intrasaccular Devices:
Special devices placed directly into the aneurysm provide immediate occlusion and support for the vessel wall.
These methods are recommended by doctors based on the size, location, and shape of the aneurysm.
What Is the Postoperative Rehabilitation Process for a Patient Who Has Undergone Brain Aneurysm Surgery?
The situation changes significantly depending on whether the aneurysm has ruptured or not. The risk of treatment is higher in patients with ruptured aneurysms, as blood between the brain membranes (where it should not be) can cause vasospasm, leading to insufficient blood supply to the brain. The endovascular method offers a shorter hospital stay in both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms, but if the aneurysm is detected early and treated by endovascular methods before bleeding occurs, you can recover from this condition within two days. In unruptured and treated patients, rehabilitation is not needed.
The postoperative rehabilitation process for patients who have undergone surgery for a ruptured brain aneurysm is vital for maintaining optimal health and maximizing functional capacity. This process consists of several phases, each requiring special attention. First, the patient is kept under observation in a neuro intensive care unit. During this period, stabilization of vital functions and early detection of possible complications are prioritized.
For endovascular treatment of unruptured aneurysms, an intensive care bed must also be ready; however, in centers where patients are treated by experienced neuroradiologists, 90% of them are discharged after two days of hospitalization in the ward.
Postoperative Care:
- Intensive Care Unit Monitoring
- Pain Management
After treatment for ruptured aneurysms, the initial phase of rehabilitation includes physical and occupational therapy. Physical therapy consists of exercises to improve mobility and physical strength. Occupational therapy helps regain daily living skills. Speech and swallowing therapy is also included in this period.
Initial Rehabilitation:
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Speech and Swallowing Therapy
Rehabilitation may continue as inpatient or outpatient, depending on the patient’s condition. Severe cases are treated in specialized rehabilitation hospitals with a multidisciplinary approach. Outpatient rehabilitation is suitable for milder cases and preferred for those discharged from the hospital.
Rehabilitation Settings:
- Inpatient Rehabilitation
- Outpatient Rehabilitation
- Home Therapy
The long-term recovery process includes regular medical monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits are recommended. In addition, psychological support and participation in support groups are of great importance in this process.
Long-Term Recovery:
- Regular Monitoring
- Lifestyle Adjustments
- Psychological Support
- Support Groups
Brain Aneurysm Treatment Reviews
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Interventional Radiology and Neuroradiology Speaclist Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez graduated from Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty in 1997. He completed his specialization at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital. He received training in interventional radiology and oncology in London. He founded the interventional radiology department at Istanbul Çam and Sakura City Hospital and became a professor in 2020. He holds many international awards and certificates, has over 150 scientific publications, and has been cited more than 1500 times. He is currently working at Medicana Ataköy Hospital.
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