An aortic aneurysm is a weakened area causing a bulge in the aorta - one of the body's largest blood vessels that carries blood from the heart to rest of the body. Aneurysms can develop throughout the length of the aorta. Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) develop in the aorta passing through the abdomen and thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) in the aorta through the chest. Aneurysms can lead to rupture or dissection.
Because the aorta carries so much of the body's blood, a ruptured aortic aneurysm can cause life-threatening internal bleeding.
Aortic dissection occurs when there is a separation within the wall of the aorta, most commonly because of a tear or damage to the aorta's inner layer. A tear creates a split (dissection) between the inner and middle layer of the aorta, which can further lead to sudden blockage of critical branches of the aorta or a rupture. This often requires emergency surgery. Dissection of the aortic wall causes it to weaken and can lead to an aneurysm forming.
Aortic Aneurysms
Most people have no symptoms at the time an aneurysm is discovered. Many aneurysms are detected by tests conducted for unrelated reasons. People who do experience symptoms describe:
- A pulsing feeling in the abdomen
- Unexplained, severe pain in the chest, abdomen or lower back
Aortic dissections
- Sudden severe chest or upper back pain described as a tearing sensation spreading from neck down to the back
- Sudden, severe stomach pain
- Loss of consciousness
- Stroke-like symptoms
- Shortness of breath
- Diminished circulation to arm and/or leg
If you experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
- Family history of AAA
- High blood pressure
- Men over age 55
- Other forms of blood vessel disease
- Smoking
- Women over age 65
Call 1-800-SENTARA (1-800-736-8272) to learn more.