Aneurysms

Aneurysms are caused by weakness in the wall of an artery.  There are many possible causes:

• You may have had this weakness or defect since birth. 

• It may be the result of an infection in the lining of the artery.

• The wall of the artery may have worn thin, which caused it to bulge.

The weakened area can burst and bleed into the brain tissue.  This is often the result of stress such as high blood pressure.  An aneurysm can also swell and press on nearby tissue.  As a result it causes damage to that part of the brain.

Your doctors have explained what caused your aneurysm and how they treated it. 

As a result of the aneurysm, you may have changes in the way you function.  These changes depend on two factors:

• the area of the brain affected

• how severely your brain was damaged

You may see changes in your ability to speak and/or understand.  There may be changes in how well you think, remember, see and walk.  These changes may affect how well you can take care of yourself and how well you manage your bodily functions.

You or your family member has chosen to take part in a rehabilitation program.  The goal is to help you recover to your highest level of independence.

Your physiatrist or rehab team member will answer any questions you or your family have about your injury and your rehab program.