A heart aneurysm--more commonly called an aortic aneurysm--is a serious medical condition. Heart aneurysms occur when the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body, develops a bulge at a weak spot within the aortic wall. When blood collects at this weak spot, the pressure that builds within the aorta can cause it to burst. Approximately 15,000 people in the United States die each year due to a ruptured heart aneurysm, according to 2006 information from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. People who develop heart aneurysm symptoms should seek prompt medical care.
No Symptoms
The majority of heart aneurysms do not evoke symptoms in affected patients. This lack of symptoms can make it difficult for a doctor to diagnose a heart aneurysm. White men over age 60 who smoke cigarettes or have high blood pressure, or a family history of heart aneurysms are at the highest risk of developing this condition, warns MayoClinic.com. People who have questions or concerns regarding heart aneurysms should consult a cardiologist.
Chest or Upper Body Pain
People who develop a heart aneurysm can experience unusual sensations of pain within the chest or upper body. These painful sensations may begin within the chest and can radiate into the neck, upper back or jaw, explain medical professionals with the Cleveland Clinic. The pain can be mild to severe and is typically constant. Severe or tearing pain within the chest or upper back can be a symptom of a ruptured heart aneurysm and requires prompt medical attention, warn health experts with University of Wisconsin Health. People who develop unusual or sudden chest or upper body pain should contact a physician immediately as this heart aneurysm symptom can also be a sign of a heart attack.
Cough or Breathing Difficulties
A heart aneurysm can cause breathing difficulties in people with this condition. Poor blood flow through the aorta resulting from this condition can lead to symptoms of coughing or hoarseness, explain Cleveland Clinic health experts. Certain people can also experience shortness of breath, which may impact their ability to move about normally. Breathing difficulties can also be signs of alternate heart-related problems and should be reported to a medical professional as soon as possible.
