Hollyoaks – brain aneurysm
June 2009
Ravi has discovered he has a brain aneurysm and this knowledge is affecting the way he lives his life.
A brain aneurysm is a balloon-like swelling that results from a weakness in the wall of one of the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. There is a risk that the aneurysm will rupture (burst suddenly) and cause a haemorrhage (bleed). This haemorrhage can lead to a coma and death if untreated.
They can affect people of any age or sex but they are most common in men, people with high blood pressure (hypertension) and older people over the age of 65. Brain aneurysms are relatively rare, particularly if there is no family history of aneurysms. Unfortunately, most people with an aneurysm are unaware they have a problem until it suddenly ruptures, and they're struck down with the most severe headache they've ever known. Ravi is fortunate in that the aneurysm has been found before it ruptures.
Usually the only way to find out if someone has a brain aneurysm is to examine the blood vessels of the brain with a brain scan, usually an MR (magnetic resonance) scan, or an angiogram (a special x-ray of the blood vessels). If an aneurysm is found, an operation can be done to clip it or tie it off. This usually resolves the problem, although the surgery itself is not without risk. Find out more about the condition, possible treatment and surgery, as well as advice on preventing some forms of aneurism at the NHS website.
If you or someone close to you has been affected by brain surgery or injury the following organisations offer support and information.
A brain aneurysm is a balloon-like swelling that results from a weakness in the wall of one of the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. There is a risk that the aneurysm will rupture (burst suddenly) and cause a haemorrhage (bleed). This haemorrhage can lead to a coma and death if untreated.
They can affect people of any age or sex but they are most common in men, people with high blood pressure (hypertension) and older people over the age of 65. Brain aneurysms are relatively rare, particularly if there is no family history of aneurysms. Unfortunately, most people with an aneurysm are unaware they have a problem until it suddenly ruptures, and they're struck down with the most severe headache they've ever known. Ravi is fortunate in that the aneurysm has been found before it ruptures.
Usually the only way to find out if someone has a brain aneurysm is to examine the blood vessels of the brain with a brain scan, usually an MR (magnetic resonance) scan, or an angiogram (a special x-ray of the blood vessels). If an aneurysm is found, an operation can be done to clip it or tie it off. This usually resolves the problem, although the surgery itself is not without risk. Find out more about the condition, possible treatment and surgery, as well as advice on preventing some forms of aneurism at the NHS website.
If you or someone close to you has been affected by brain surgery or injury the following organisations offer support and information.
Headway gives help and support to people affected by brain injury. It does this through a network of local groups and branches throughout the UK . They offer a wide range of services including rehabilitation programmes, carer support, social re-integration, community outreach and respite care. The services available will vary depending on local needs and resources. The Headway Helpline provides information, advice on sources of support, finds local rehabilitation services and offers a listening ear to those experiencing problems. Call 0808 800 2244 (free Monday - Fridays 9am-5pm) or e mail to helpline@headway.org.uk.
The Stroke Association campaign to improve the lives of all those affected by stroke and to prevent more strokes from happening. Contact the Stroke Helpline on 0845 3033 100 (Monday - Friday 9am -5pm) for information on stroke, how to get help and support at home and other Stroke Association services, or email info@stroke.org.uk.
The Disabled Living Foundation - DLF is the UK's leading source of expert information, advice and training on independent living for older or disabled people. It provides free, impartial advice and information on all types of daily living equipment and assistive technology . DLF can help you find solutions that enable you to stay active and independent. Check out their website or call 0845 130 9177 (local rate, Monday – Friday 10am to 4pm).
For information on rights, housing, education, benefits, and much more for people living with a disability go to www.direct.gov.uk and click on 'disabled people'.
Channel 4 Television takes no responsibility for the content of any third-party sites
The Stroke Association campaign to improve the lives of all those affected by stroke and to prevent more strokes from happening. Contact the Stroke Helpline on 0845 3033 100 (Monday - Friday 9am -5pm) for information on stroke, how to get help and support at home and other Stroke Association services, or email info@stroke.org.uk.
The Disabled Living Foundation - DLF is the UK's leading source of expert information, advice and training on independent living for older or disabled people. It provides free, impartial advice and information on all types of daily living equipment and assistive technology . DLF can help you find solutions that enable you to stay active and independent. Check out their website or call 0845 130 9177 (local rate, Monday – Friday 10am to 4pm).
For information on rights, housing, education, benefits, and much more for people living with a disability go to www.direct.gov.uk and click on 'disabled people'.
Channel 4 Television takes no responsibility for the content of any third-party sites
