What Happens to the Brain When an Aneurysm Bleeds?
In most cases, after a rupture the bleeding quickly stops. Blood in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) increases the pressure on the brain. Damage to Brain Cells Blood from an aneurysm can leak into the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) in the space around the brain (subarachnoid space). The pool of blood forms a clot. Blood can irritate, damage, or destroy nearby brain cells. This may cause problems with body functions or mental skills. Fluid Buildup in the Brain Blood from a torn aneurysm can block CSF circulation. This can lead to fluid buildup and increased pressure on the brain. Because blood is sprayed around the base of the brain, the possibility of fluid buildup exists, causing hydrocephalusHydrocephalus A generic term that describes too much fluid building up within the spaces inside the brain (also known as ventricles). This may occur after aneurysm rupture or bleeding from an AVM and may be life-threatening. Emergency treatment with placement of a drainage tube to relieve the pressure ma
