The aorta, the largest artery in the body, runs from the heart down through the abdomen to the legs. The aorta can weaken, bulging out and eventually rupturing, resulting in blood loss that can be fatal. One quarter of all aneurysms occur in the abdomen, the Merck Manual notes. Abdominal aneurysm occurs most frequently in men, people over age 60 and those with a history of smoking, high blood pressure, arterial disease and high cholesterol. Around 20 percent of abdominal aneurysms rupture eventually and in 75 percent of cases were asymptomatic until rupture.
Pulsing Sensation
If an abdominal aneurysm becomes large enough, a person may notice a pulsating sensation, like a heartbeat, in the abdomen, often near the navel, MayoClinic.com reports. Medical personnel may palpate a pulsating mass in the abdomen upon examination.
Pain
If an aneurysm begins to leak, deep, gnawing often unrelenting back, abdominal or groin pain often occurs. Pain from a leaking aneurysm may not respond to pain medication or position changes, the Cleveland Clinic notes. Rupture of the aneurysm causes severe, sudden pain.
Blood Clots
Small blood clots can develop in the area of the aneurysm and travel to other parts of the body, possibly blocking blood flow to the legs, feet or abdominal organs, according to the Mayo Clinic. Legs and feet may feel cold and clammy or discolored due to decreased blood flow to the area. Sores can appear on the feet and toes from lack of blood flow. Numbness and tingling may also develop.
Shock
Severe blood loss from a ruptured abdominal aneurysm can result in shock, a medical emergency that can be fatal if not promptly treated. Symptoms of shock include low blood pressure, rapid, weak pulse, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, clamminess or sweating and light-headedness or dizziness. A person may lose consciousness. If blood volume isn't replaced promptly, death can follow aneurysm rupture because vital organs don't receive enough blood flow.
