Why brain aneurysms?

According to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation in the USA, a brain aneurysm also referred to as a cerebral aneurysm or intracranial aneurysm, is a weak bulging spot on the wall of a brain artery very much like a thin balloon or weak spot on an inner tube. The foundation explained that over time, the blood flow within the artery pounds against the thinned portion of the wall and aneurysms form silently from wear and tear on the arteries.

Most aneurysms produce no symptoms and may only be found during tests for another usually unrelated condition. The brain foundation admits that symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm often come on suddenly. If you have any of these symptoms and/or notice them in someone you know, notify the medical emergency services immediately – a sudden severe headache that is different from the norm, neck pain, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, fainting or loss of onsciousness or seizures.

Based on medical research studies, it is unlikely that you are born with a cerebral aneurysm; they usually develop as you advance in age and are more prevalent in women. Research further suggests that in the brain, causes are linked to specific factors including traumatic injury such as a blow to the head, an infection termed a mycotic aneurysm, a hereditary predisposition, cigarette smoking and hypertension or high blood pressure, use of drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines and certain blood vessel disorders, fibromuscular dysplasia, cerebral arteritis and arterial dissection.

In the same way that we take precautionary measures to protect and nourish our bodies, the same approach must be used to protect and nourish our brain. Starting with our food intake which should include whole foods such as fish, nuts and vegetables rich in vitamins, nutrients, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Ensuring that you get enough sleep is critical to good health, as inadequate sleep contributes to brain decline and may also increase your risk of Alzheimer’s.

Establishing a bedtime routine sleep schedule puts you on the right track in both resting and protecting your brain.

A regular exercise routine is also important as it protects against brain ageing and improves mental function. Prolonged periods of stress are also harmful to the brain, as you may experience fatigue, poor concentration and memory loss. Remember your brain is as equally important as your mind, body and soul so treat it well! Sandrine Rattan is a communications/branding consultant, author and president of the International Women’s Resource Network (IWRN). Contact: thecorporatesuitett@gmail.

com or intlwomensresourcenetwork@ gmail.com or 283-0318