An aortic aneurysm is a heart condition that affects the aorta, the main artery that transports blood from the heart to other regions of the body. People with an aortic aneurysm develop a bulge along the aorta, which may not cause detectable symptoms. If aortic aneurysm symptoms arise, affected people should seek prompt medical care. In the absence of treatment, an aortic aneurysm can rupture, which may lead to life-threatening complications.
Chest or Upper Body Pain
The symptoms of an aortic aneurysm depend the location of the bulge along the artery. When an aortic aneurysm develops in the upper region of the aorta in the chest, this condition is called a thoracic aortic aneurysm. People with this type of aneurysm may develop sensations of pain within the chest, neck, upper back or jaw, the Cleveland Clinic reports. Upper body pain, especially if it occurs suddenly, requires prompt medical care as such symptoms can be indicative of a heart attack.
Breathing Difficulties or Cough
People who have a thoracic aortic aneurysm can also develop respiratory symptoms, such as breathing difficulties or cough. Vocal hoarseness may occur, which can cause people to have difficulty speaking in a clear, normal voice. Additionally, persistent cough symptoms may exacerbate chest pain or discomfort in affected people.
Abdominal or Back Pain
An aneurysm that develops in the lower portion of the aorta that runs through the abdomen is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Swelling of the aorta can cause sensations of pain within a person's abdomen or lower back, MayoClinic.com reports. The severity of pain can vary from mild to severe depending upon the size and exact location of the aneurysm. Typically, pain related to an aortic aneurysm is not alleviated by treatment with pain medication.
Pulsating Abdominal Mass
An abdominal aortic aneurysm may swell or expand, resulting in the development of a small, palpable mass within the abdomen. People with this type of aneurysm may experience a pulsating sensation near the belly button, MayoClinic.com warns. The abdomen may also be tender or sensitive to the touch.
