Connection between COVID-19 and Brain Aneurysms: Is There a Relationship?
In the global battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus has proven to have far-reaching effects on human health. However, a recent review of medical literature and search results reveals that there is no direct or strong evidence linking SARS-CoV-2 infections (COVID-19) to the formation or rupture of brain aneurysms.
Brain aneurysms, thin or weak spots on a brain artery that can potentially leak or rupture, are medical emergencies requiring urgent and specialized care. Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm include a sudden, very severe headache, double vision, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, seizures, loss of consciousness, cardiac arrest, or leakage of blood into the brain, causing a sentinel headache.
While SARS-CoV-2 infection induces systemic inflammation and vascular changes, the existing evidence does not support a direct connection to brain aneurysm development or rupture. Most scientific publications focus on thrombotic complications and endothelial inflammation in the context of COVID-19 rather than aneurysm formation or rupture.
It is important to note that brain aneurysms are primarily influenced by genetic factors, smoking, hypertension, and vascular abnormalities. Prevention and screening guidelines have not included viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2 as known risk factors.
COVID-19 can affect the brain, leading to complications such as stroke, seizures, and delirium. It can also cause mental health conditions. Some scientists believe that COVID-19 may be a risk factor for brain aneurysms and ruptures due to the inflammation and hypercytokinemia, an extreme immune response characterized by the release of too many cytokines into the bloodstream, caused by severe COVID-19.
However, as of the latest data from 2025, no such evidence is documented. Anyone with symptoms of a brain aneurysm should seek immediate medical attention. It is crucial to remember that brain aneurysms can be caused by various factors, including hypertension, alcohol addiction, smoking, cocaine use, atherosclerosis, tumors, trauma, endocarditis, and genetic factors.
An unruptured cerebral aneurysm typically does not cause symptoms, but if it grows large enough, it may put pressure on tissues or nerves, causing pain, numbness, weakness, vision changes, and a dilated pupil.
In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to prioritise adherence to public health guidelines, regular health check-ups, and prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19 include coughing, fever, and a loss of taste or smell. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact a doctor and follow the COVID-19 guidelines in their local area.
In the ongoing debate about COVID-19 and its effects on human health, some scientists suggest a possible link between the virus and brain aneurysms due to the immune response it triggers, known as hypercytokinemia. (mental-health, COVID-19) However, as of 2025, no evidence supporting this theory has been documented. (cbd) Meanwhile, medical research continues to focus on the virus's direct impacts on health-and-wellness, such as its link to neurological disorders like stroke, seizures, and mental health conditions. (science, health-and-wellness, neurological-disorders) It remains crucial for individuals to prioritize regular check-ups, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek immediate medical attention for any concerning symptoms, including those related to brain aneurysms or COVID-19. (medical-conditions, health-and-wellness)
