Is It Safe To Fly If You Have A Minor Brain Aneurysm?

Flying with a brain aneurysm is a serious concern, with risks falling into two distinct categories. Most patients can fly in a conventional, pressurized plane, and the risk of an aneurysm bursting is unlikely. Although flying with reduced air pressure could theoretically raise the risk of an aneurysm bursting, it is not listed among the contraindications to flying.

According to the Stroke Association, it is best to wait at least two weeks to fly following a stroke, as a person is at an increased risk of a second stroke after suffering a transient intracranial aneurysm (TIA). Evidence-based guidelines are presented for the care of patients presenting with unruptured intracranial aneurysms, addressing presentation, natural history, epidemiology, risk factors, and more.

Flying with an unruptured, stable brain aneurysm is generally considered safe, provided specific precautions are taken. It is also safe to fly in small planes that generally don’t go that high, and non-powered flight (balloons or gliders) should also be safe.

Flying after experiencing a brain aneurysm or other traumatic brain injury can be nerve-racking, but there are some feasible options to make the process more comfortable. A case of acute subarachnoid hemorrhage from a ruptured cerebral aneurysm associated with travel on commercial aircraft requires careful consideration and consultation with a vascular or neurosurgeon.

Blood aneurysm is not listed among the contraindications to flying in the guidelines issued by the Aerospace Medical Association. The risk of air travel is not sufficiently addressed in most cases, and the decision to fly with an unruptured aneurysm is an individual one.

Can a small brain aneurysm go away?

Brain aneurysms are rare and can change over time due to lifestyle changes. They can lead to strokes, but not the other way around. Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is impeded, while aneurysms can cause arteries to spasm and stop blood flow to specific parts of the brain. Prompt evaluation and treatment for unruptured brain aneurysms is critical for preventing neurologic problems and potentially saving life.

Brigham and Women’s Hospital Center for Cerebrovascular Diseases offers individualized care for unruptured brain aneurysms, collaborating with neurologists and neuroradiologists to determine the best treatment approach. Patients can expect exceptional care and support from their neurosurgeons.

How serious is a small aneurysm in the brain?

Brain aneurysms are common but usually not serious, especially small ones. They don’t rupture and don’t cause symptoms or health issues. They are often found during tests for other conditions. A ruptured aneurysm can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment. Treatment for unruptured aneurysms may prevent future ruptures. Consult your healthcare provider to understand the best options for your specific needs.

Can you fly with a small brain bleed?

A concussion is a minor traumatic brain injury that usually resolves within 10 days. Flying is usually safe in such cases, but if symptoms persist or worsen, or if there is a skull fracture or brain bleeding, it should be avoided as it may result in a hemorrhagic stroke or brain cell death. Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and are considered functional brain injuries, damaging brain cells, tissues, nerves, and blood vessels, disrupting proper cerebral function. Symptoms typically include headaches, balance and coordination difficulties, memory and concentration issues.

What should you avoid if you have a brain aneurysm?

To reduce the risk of a brain aneurysm rupture, individuals should avoid smoking, control high blood pressure, maintain a healthy diet and exercise, and avoid drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine. Diagnosis involves testing for subarachnoid hemorrhage, bleeding into the brain and surrounding tissues, and other stroke-related symptoms. Symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm may include pain behind the eye, changes in vision, or double vision. Screening tests and procedures used to diagnose and detect brain aneurysms include:

Is it safe to fly with a small aneurysm?

Brain aneurysm patients are generally safe to fly, with changes in cabin pressure being small and well-tolerated. Commercial aircraft are pressurized to simulate an altitude below 8, 000 feet, which is generally safe for those with aneurysms. However, those with brain aneurysms traveling or living at high altitudes may need to take precautions and consult a healthcare professional to assess the risks associated with high altitudes and their specific aneurysm.

What aggravates a brain aneurysm?

High blood pressure can cause brain aneurysms to rupture due to pressure pushing against blood vessel walls. Stress or strong emotions can increase blood pressure, leading to aneurysm rupture. Treatment aims to stop or reduce blood flow into the aneurysm, and emergency surgery is required for ruptured aneurysms. The best treatment option depends on vascular anatomy, aneurysm size and location, and other factors. Recovery time for ruptured aneurysms is generally longer than for unruptured aneurysms.

How bad is a small aneurysm?

An aneurysm’s size and location can indicate its potential threat to the patient. Aneurysms less than 3mm in size have a low risk of rupture, while larger than 3mm have a higher risk of bursting. The location of the aneurysm also influences its potential harm. Aneurysms closer to the heart are more dangerous due to increased blood flow pressure. Modern diagnostic imaging technologies can help doctors determine the risk of an aneurysm and guide treatment options.

How soon can you fly after a brain aneurysm?

It is possible for individuals with untreated aneurysms to fly safely, but the decision to do so is dependent on the individual’s recovery process and consultation with a medical professional. The clips and coils will not impede the ability to pass through airport security machines or scanners. The extent of recovery is contingent upon the individual’s unique recovery trajectory.

How to prevent a brain aneurysm from rupturing?

To reduce the risk of aneurysm rupture, individuals should control blood pressure, stop smoking, and avoid stimulant drugs like cocaine. A cerebral aneurysm is a weak or thin spot on an artery in the brain that balloons or bulges out, filling with blood. It can put pressure on nerves or brain tissue, or burst or rupture, causing serious health problems like hemorrhagic stroke, brain damage, coma, and even death.

Some small cerebral aneurysms, detected during imaging tests for other medical conditions, do not bleed or cause other problems. Most cerebral aneurysms do not show symptoms until they become large or rupture, while small unchanging aneurysms generally do not produce symptoms.