An aneurysm occurs when there is a weakening in the wall of a blood vessel. The pressure of the blood flow creates a balloon-like bulge to appear in the weakened portion of the aorta. The aorta is the largest artery in your body and is responsible for carrying blood and oxygen from the heart to other parts of the body. The bulge that develops is called an aortic aneurysm.
An aneurysm can be detected anywhere within the aorta. The ascending portion of the aorta leads the blood up from your heart and the descending portion runs back down into the abdomen. There are two common types of aortic aneurysms that affect different parts of the body:
As this weakened section of the vessel expands from the pressure of the blood flow, the aorta continues to enlarge. If it becomes too weak, it poses a risk of rupturing and causing internal bleeding that is potentially life-threatening. It is best to deal with this problem before it becomes dangerous.
The cause of an aneurysm is often unknown, but they are mostly commonly found in males. Some patients may even be born with an aneurysm. It can also be hereditary or caused by a condition or injury. Other underlying conditions may increase your risk of developing an aneurysm including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and the use of tobacco. Diagnostic screening is recommended for individuals between age 65 and 75 who have a family history of aneurysms or those who have smoked.
Aneurysms can develop and grow before experiencing any symptoms. If one is present and expands quickly or bursts, symptoms may develop suddenly and vary based on the location. Depending on the location of the aneurysm, symptoms may include:
As aneurysms develop without presenting any symptoms, aneurysms are often detected during a routine checkup or screening. If you are at risk of developing an aortic aneurysm or have symptoms, it is important to speak with your primary care provider about what you are experiencing. Your doctor will likely order imaging tests that may involve a CT, MRI or ultrasound to help provide a proper diagnosis.
If you have an unruptured aortic aneurysm, your vascular specialist will likely advise a preventative treatment plan that may involve regular screenings or medications to improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
For larger aneurysms presenting risk of dissection or rupture, surgery will likely be your recommended treatment option. If an aneurysm has ruptured, surgery will be used to repair the vessel.
Finding and treating an aneurysm early significantly reduces the risk of rupture and further complications with internal bleeding. If you are at risk of developing an aneurysm or suspect you may have one, it is important to talk with a vascular specialist to start regular screenings. Prevention and early detection are key for a healthy outcome. Contact the vascular specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic today to request an appointment with one of our skilled providers.