From pain to happiness
It all started on a cold, stormy day in March. I was sitting at the kitchen table in my boyfriends kitchen, laughing, when suddenly I felt the most excruciating pain I had ever experienced in my life. I clutched my head and felt something warm and wet running down my face but there wasn’t. I had no idea what was happening to me.
It turns out I was having a ruptured brain aneurysm. I was rushed to the VA hospital and then flown to UCSF where I underwent surgery, several times, to repair it. I was there for a month. It was a long and difficult recovery, but I am happy to say that I am now fairly healthy and happy.
If you are facing a similar situation, I want you to know that you are not alone. There is hope. I am living proof that it is possible to survive a ruptured brain aneurysm and go on to lead a happy and fulfilling life.
What is a brain aneurysm?
A brain aneurysm, also known as a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulge in the wall of an artery in the brain. This bulge can be weakened, making it susceptible to bursting. When a brain aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to serious medical complications, such as a stroke or brain damage. In the United States, about 30,000 people suffer from a ruptured brain aneurysm every year. Risk factors for developing a brain aneurysm include smoking, high blood pressure, a family history of aneurysms, hardening of the arteries, and heavy alcohol use.The symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm include a sudden and severe headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, paralysis, and vision problems. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Treatment options for a ruptured brain aneurysm include surgery, clipping, and coiling.
Warning signs of a brain aneurysm
A brain aneurysm can be life-threatening if it ruptures, so early detection is key to reducing the risk of a ruptured aneurysm. Here are some warning signs to look out for:- Sudden, very severe headache- Nausea and/or vomiting- Dizziness- Vision problems- Seizures- Slurred Speech- Muscle Weakness- Loss of ConsciousnessIf you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial to reduce the risk of a ruptured aneurysm.
How to prevent a brain aneurysm
Although brain aneurysms are not always preventable, there are certain steps to reduce the risk of a brain aneurysm rupturing. Here are some things you can do:- Avoid smoking- Maintain a healthy blood pressure- Eat a healthy, balanced diet- Pay extra attention to any symptoms associated with a brain aneurysm, such as sudden and severe headache, nausea and/or vomiting, dizziness, vision problems, seizures, slurred speech, muscle weakness, and/or loss of consciousness by taking these preventative steps and paying attention to any warning signs, you can reduce your risk of a ruptured brain aneurysm and ensure that you have the best chance at a full recovery.
My story of surviving a ruptured brain aneurysm
My fight against a ruptured brain aneurysm began on March 16, 2018. I began to experience severe headaches, nausea, and blurred vision at that time. I was taken to the ER where I was scanned and diagnosed with a ruptured brain aneurysm. My life was turned upside down in an instant. I needed surgery to repair the aneurysm and I was scared for my life. Though it was a long road to recovery, I came out the other side grateful to be alive. I am now living life to the fullest. Living after a ruptured brain aneurysm and still living with another means ongoing monitoring for issues and taking the necessary steps to ensure it does not rupture again. I’ve increased my intake of fruits and vegetables, and try to manage my stress levels. I’m also ensuring that I am visiting the doctor regularly for checkups so that any issues can be detected as early as possible. The story of surviving a ruptured brain aneurysm serves as a reminder that this medical condition can happen to anyone, and that vigilance and maintaining good physical and mental health is the most important thing.
On my road to recovery, I found the support of my family and friends essential in helping me remain positive and determined despite the fear of another aneurysm rupture. Through therapy and regular doctor check-ups, I was able to strengthen my physical and mental health — something which is increasingly important for those living with a brain aneurysm.I also learned to accept the emotional toll that dealing with a life-threatening illness can have and to be kind to myself during the physical recovery process. I found that the disruptions that occurred in the wake of the surgery such as fatigue and difficulties with concentration were all part of the healing process. The brain aneurysm experience has also changed my perspective on my overall health forever. For me, it meant a transformation in lifestyle. I started leading a healthier and more balanced life, which has included engaging in leisure activities that make me happy, such as cycling, swimming, and rock climbing. Adjusting to the new normal has come with its own set of challenges, but I couldn’t be more proud of how I’ve taken them on with the right attitude. While I may never be able to fully “recover” from my brain aneurysm, now I can look forward to a bright, healthy, and happy future.
What I’ve learned from my experience
My experience surviving a ruptured brain aneurysm has taught me many valuable lessons. The first and the most important lesson is that life is precious and fragile, and should never be taken for granted. Every day is a blessing, and should be passionate pursued with a positive attitude. It has also taught me that even in the darkest times, there is hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. Challenging times can bring out the best in us, and our ability to cope with adversity can be truly inspirational.I’ve also learned that small changes to a daily routine can create a huge impact on our health and overall well-being. We should be conscious of small habits that can potentially influence our mood, such as staying active and connected with the outside world. I hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to cherish life’s smallest blessings, and to be courageous and fight for a bright and happy future, regardless of the circumstances.