What is a brain (cerebral) aneurysm?

What is a brain (cerebral) aneurysm?

A brain aneurysm is a bulge in a weak area of a blood vessel in or around your brain. The constant pressure of blood flow pushes the weakened section outward, creating a blister-like bump.

When blood rushes into this bulge, the aneurysm stretches even further. It’s similar to how a balloon gets thinner and is more likely to pop as it fills with air. If the aneurysm leaks or ruptures (bursts open), it causes bleeding in your brain. Sometimes it causes a hemorrhagic stroke, bleeding in or around the brain that can lead to brain damage and be fatal.

These aneurysms are also called cerebral aneurysms. Cerebral means in the brain.