Kim Kardashian Shares Diagnosis of Small Brain Aneurysm

Kim Kardashian revealed on the season premiere of The Kardashians that she has a small brain aneurysm. During the episode, footage showed her entering a medical imaging scan as she explained, “There’s, like, a little aneurysm.” Her sister, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, reacted with visible concern.

Aneurysms occur when an artery weakens and balloons, potentially causing serious health risks if ruptured. Brain aneurysms affect an estimated 3% to 5% of the U.S. population, though many remain undetected because they often produce no symptoms.

Medical experts say risk factors for cerebral aneurysms include family history, high blood pressure, smoking, and inflammation. Women, particularly after menopause, are more likely to develop brain aneurysms, typically between the ages of 30 and 60.

If a brain aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to stroke, brain damage, or even death. Symptoms of rupture often include an intense, sudden headache described as the “worst headache of one’s life.”

Aneurysms are usually discovered through imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs. Low-risk aneurysms may simply be monitored over time, while high-risk or ruptured aneurysms can be treated with procedures like surgical clipping or endovascular coiling.

Doctors recommend that individuals with a family history of aneurysms consider routine screenings, while those without known risk factors typically do not require them.