Francelys Infante, a mother of three and wife to Latin superstar Romeo Santos, experienced a severe migraine last year that turned out to be caused by two brain aneurysms. An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel that can be life-threatening if it ruptures. Infante underwent urgent surgery to address the aneurysms after facing a grim diagnosis from her doctor. The emotional toll of the experience was high, especially as she had to quickly organize her family and children before undergoing surgery.
Infante’s surgery involved doctors inserting a catheter and stents into her blood vessels to prevent the aneurysms from rupturing. Her recovery period was challenging, but she was ultimately deemed a “miracle” by her doctor, who told her that she only had a small window of time before the aneurysms could have burst. Post-surgery, Infante had regular follow-ups to monitor her condition and ensure no new aneurysms had formed. She described the experience as life-changing, but ultimately, she was grateful for a second chance at life.
Brain aneurysms are more common than people realize, with about 1 in 50 individuals having one. Most aneurysms do not cause symptoms unless they rupture, but in cases like Infante’s, where the aneurysm was pressing on the brain, severe headaches and other symptoms can occur. Knowing the symptoms of a ruptured brain aneurysm and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, as the condition is considered a medical emergency. It is important to be aware of symptoms such as intense headaches, vision trouble, and paralysis, among others.
While some risk factors for brain aneurysms, such as family history, are beyond one’s control, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and blood pressure can help reduce risk. Regular screenings may be recommended for individuals with a family history of brain aneurysms. In cases where an aneurysm is deemed particularly concerning based on factors like size and location, preemptive surgery may be necessary. Understanding these risk factors and symptoms can help individuals identify potential issues early on and seek appropriate treatment.
Infante’s experience has prompted her to raise awareness about brain aneurysms, especially among women and mothers who may prioritize the health and well-being of their families over their own. She encourages women to prioritize their own health and listen to their bodies, even when faced with busy schedules and responsibilities. September is Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month, and Infante hopes to share her story to educate others about the condition and the importance of early detection and treatment. She emphasizes the need for self-care and attentiveness to one’s health, especially for those in caregiving roles.
Despite the challenges and fears that persist in her recovery journey, Infante remains grateful for the opportunity to share her story and raise awareness. She hopes that by sharing her experience, she can help others recognize the signs of a brain aneurysm and take action promptly. By prioritizing self-care and raising awareness, Infante aims to empower individuals, particularly women, to advocate for their own health and well-being, ultimately turning a challenging experience into an opportunity for education and positive change.
