Kim Kardashian recently revealed her diagnosis with a small brain aneurysm, suggesting a potential link to stress. However, medical experts clarify that while stress isn't a direct cause of brain aneurysms, chronic psychological stress can elevate blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for both the formation and rupture of these aneurysms. Studies have indicated that individuals with aneurysms often report higher long-term stress levels, and some research has found elevated hair cortisol, a marker of chronic stress, in patients who experienced aneurysm ruptures. Therefore, stress may increase the likelihood of an existing aneurysm rupturing, rather than causing it to form from scratch.

A brain aneurysm is characterized as a bulge or weak spot in the wall of an artery within the brain. Unruptured brain aneurysms, like Kardashian's, are relatively common, affecting an estimated 6.8 million people in the U.S. Many individuals remain unaware of their condition as these aneurysms are typically small and asymptomatic. However, if an unruptured aneurysm grows larger, it can manifest symptoms such as blurred or double vision, a drooping eyelid, a dilated pupil, pain above and behind one eye, or weakness and numbness.

A ruptured aneurysm, on the other hand, constitutes a life-threatening medical emergency. When blood leaks around the brain, it can lead to severe symptoms including a sudden and intense headache, often described as the "worst headache of my life," nausea or vomiting, blurred or double vision, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. For small, unruptured aneurysms, doctors generally recommend monitoring. However, if the risk of rupture increases, medical professionals may advise surgical intervention or other treatment options.