Aneurysm Disease (Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm)

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The abdominal aorta is the largest artery (blood vessel) in your abdomen that supplies blood to your abdomen, pelvis and legs. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a ballooning or bulging of the aorta that has developed over time. Pressure from blood flowing through your abdominal aorta can cause a weakened part of the aorta to bulge, much like a balloon.

Clots and debris form inside the aneurysm. These clots can travel to your legs and cause blockages and pain or even more serious problems, such as limb loss.

When the weak point bursts or ruptures, severe internal bleeding occurs, which can lead to shock and death.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) develop slowly over several years and are often hard to detect during a routine medical examination. If an abdominal aortic aneurysm is detected, it is often found during a routine medical test, such as an X-ray or an ultrasound. Most sufferers do not experience any symptoms with AAA. If you develop symptoms, you may experience one or more of the following:

Severe abdominal or lower back pain. The pain may also be felt in your groin, buttocks, or legs.
Rapid heartbeat
Pain, discoloration, or a sore may develop on your feet because of material shed from the aneurysm
Abdominal rigidity
Clammy skin
Nausea and vomiting

A ruptured aneurysm is a life-threatening situation. Seek medical attention immediately.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Causes

Although an abdominal aortic aneurysm can develop in anyone, males over the age of 60 who have been smokers most often suffer from this disease. The cause of AAA is unknown, but researchers believe that an inflammation in the aorta may weaken the aortic wall. This damage can be caused by smoking, high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, commonly known as hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is caused by a buildup of cholesterol and other fatty deposits in the arteries. In atherosclerosis, fatty deposits called plaque, build up in an artery. This buildup causes the artery to narrow, stiffen and possibly weaken. Besides atherosclerosis, other factors that can increase your risk of AAA include:

Having an immediate relative, such as a mother or brother, who has AAA
Having high blood pressure
Smoking

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Tests

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are often detected through an imaging test, such as an x-ray or ultrasound, for another condition. During the examination, your doctor will examine your abdomen and concentrate on any pulses or sensations in your legs. If AAA is suspected, you may undergo one of the following tests:

Abdominal ultrasound
CT scan of abdomen
MRI

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatments

Depending on the size of the aneurysm and the symptoms that you are experiencing, the prescribed treatment could be one of the following:

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