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Headache Behind the Eyes? Beware of a Brain Aneurysm and Learn About the Treatment Options

Sakit Kepala di Belakang Mata? Hati-hati Aneurisma Otak, Kenali Penanganannya Ini

A headache behind the eyes is not always caused by fatigue or minor conditions. In certain cases, this symptom can be a sign of a brain aneurysm. A brain aneurysm occurs when a blood vessel in the brain develops a bulge or ballooning due to weakening of the vessel wall. If not treated promptly, a brain aneurysm can rupture and cause dangerous brain bleeding, potentially leading to permanent nerve damage, stroke, or even becoming life-threatening.

To ensure safe and accurate management of brain aneurysms, RS Mandaya Royal Puri offers modern medical solutions supported by advanced technology. Brain aneurysm treatment is performed by an experienced neurosurgeon, Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS, widely known as Dr. Joy. With his expertise and comprehensive medical approach, RS Mandaya Royal Puri provides personalized brain aneurysm treatment tailored to each patient’s condition.

Headache behind the eyes and other symptoms of a brain aneurysm

In general, brain aneurysm symptoms are divided into two categories: symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm and symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm. Recognizing the difference is crucial, as the severity and risks involved can vary significantly. Below is a detailed explanation.

Symptoms of an unruptured brain aneurysm

An unruptured brain aneurysm often causes no symptoms, especially if it is small. However, larger aneurysms may press on surrounding brain tissue or nerves, leading to certain symptoms, including:

  • Pain above and behind one eye
  • A dilated pupil
  • Changes in vision or double vision
  • Numbness on one side of the face
  • Seizures

Symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm

A ruptured brain aneurysm is a medical emergency. The primary symptom is a sudden, severe headache that appears abruptly and is often described as the worst headache ever experienced. In addition to intense headache, symptoms may include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stiff neck
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Extreme sensitivity to light
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness or fainting
  • Confusion

Early recognition of brain aneurysm symptoms is essential so that treatment can be provided as quickly as possible and the risk of serious complications can be minimized.

Dangers of an untreated brain aneurysm

When a brain aneurysm ruptures, the bleeding usually lasts only a few seconds. However, the blood can cause direct damage to surrounding tissue and may kill brain cells. Bleeding also increases pressure inside the skull. If this pressure becomes too high, it can disrupt blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, leading to loss of consciousness or even death.

If a ruptured brain aneurysm is not treated immediately, several serious complications may occur, including:

  • Rebleeding, where an aneurysm that has ruptured or leaked bleeds again, causing more severe brain damage
  • Vasospasm, or narrowing of brain blood vessels after rupture, which can trigger ischemic stroke due to reduced blood flow to brain cells
  • Hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain caused by blockage of cerebrospinal fluid flow, increasing pressure and damaging brain tissue
  • Changes in blood sodium levels, resulting from electrolyte imbalance after brain bleeding, which can cause brain cell swelling and permanent damage

Therefore, a brain aneurysm is a serious condition that requires immediate medical treatment to prevent dangerous and life-threatening complications.

Brain aneurysm treatment at RS Mandaya Royal Puri

RS Mandaya Royal Puri offers several modern and advanced treatment options for brain aneurysms, including:

1. DSA coiling for brain aneurysm treatment

DSA coiling is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat brain aneurysms by sealing the bulging blood vessel with thin platinum coils. This procedure is performed using Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) technology, allowing doctors to precisely monitor and place the coils inside the aneurysm. By sealing the aneurysm sac, blood flow to the weakened area is stopped, significantly reducing the risk of rupture.

DSA coiling procedure:

  • A catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the groin or wrist
  • The catheter is guided to the brain’s blood vessels using DSA imaging
  • Thin platinum coils are placed into the aneurysm until it is fully sealed
  • Once blood flow is blocked, the aneurysm shrinks and the risk of rupture decreases

Advantages of DSA coiling:

  • Minimally invasive, without opening the skull
  • Lower bleeding risk compared to open surgery
  • Faster recovery time, with most patients recovering within days
  • Suitable for aneurysms located in areas difficult to access with conventional surgery

2. Microsurgery clipping for brain aneurysms

Microsurgery clipping is an open surgical procedure used to treat brain aneurysms by placing a special metal clip at the neck of the aneurysm to stop blood flow into the bulge, preventing rupture.

Microsurgery clipping procedure:

  • A craniotomy is performed to access the brain
  • The aneurysm is identified directly using a surgical microscope
  • A metal clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to block blood flow
  • The skull bone is closed after the clip is securely in place

Advantages of microsurgery clipping:

  • Provides a long-term, permanent solution by directly closing the aneurysm
  • Lower risk of recurrence compared to some other methods
  • Suitable for large or complex aneurysms
  • The metal clip is permanent and safe to remain in the body for life

Dr. Joy, brain aneurysm specialist at RS Mandaya Royal Puri

Brain aneurysm treatment at RS Mandaya Royal Puri is performed directly by a renowned and highly experienced neurosurgeon in Indonesia, Dr. Joy. He completed specialized training in brain aneurysm treatment at the University of Helsinki, Finland, where he studied under the legendary neurosurgeon Prof. Juha Hernesniemi, one of the world’s most respected brain surgery experts.

Dr. Joy completed his doctoral program at the University of Helsinki in just 18 months and 12 days, an extraordinary achievement that earned him a MURI Record as the Fastest Medical Doctor to Complete a PhD. His international experience forms a strong foundation for comprehensive brain aneurysm management, from diagnosis to advanced treatment.

In addition to brain aneurysm treatment, Dr. Joy is also highly skilled in managing other brain disorders, including brain tumors. He is one of the few doctors in Indonesia proficient in performing Awake Brain Surgery, a procedure in which brain surgery is conducted while the patient is conscious to preserve critical neurological functions.

Dr. Joy’s practice schedule at RS Mandaya Royal Puri:

  • Monday: by appointment
  • Tuesday: 14.00 – 17.00 WIB
  • Wednesday: by appointment
  • Thursday: 08.00 – 12.00 WIB
  • Friday: 14.00 – 17.00 WIB
  • Saturday: 08.00 – 12.00 WIB

To make your visit easier, you can use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available on Google Play and the App Store, to manage appointments, check queue numbers, and access complete information.

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