A thoracic aortic aneurysm is an aneurysm that occurs in the body's largest artery, the aorta. When a part of an artery abnormally widens due to a weakness in the wall of the blood vessel, it is referred to as an aneurysm. MedlinePlus states that hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, is the most common cause of this condition. Although a thoracic aortic aneurysm develops slowly over many years, during which time it is without any symptoms, complications may arise.
Atherosclerotic Plaque
Cleveland Clinic states that the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque is a complication of thoracic aortic aneurysms. Atherosclerotic plaques are fat and calcium deposits that form at the site of the aneurysm due to the increased width of the artery.
Thrombus
A thrombus is a clot and is also a complication of a thoracic aortic aneurysm, as reported by Cleveland Clinic. This clot can form at the site of the aneurysm and dislodge. This increases an individual's chance of getting a stroke.
Quick Growth
MedlinePlus reports that the aneurysm may grow quickly. This can prove to be dangerous and painful for individuals since the rapid increase in size causes it to press on other organs, possibly resulting in discomfort and damage.
Aortic Dissection
Another complication of a thoracic aortic aneurysm is aortic dissection, according to MedlinePlus. This is a condition in which the layers of the aorta are torn and blood leaks along the wall of the aorta. The Cleveland Clinic reports that this is a potentially fatal complication that requires emergency medical treatment.
Aneurysm Rupture
Cleveland Clinic states that an aneurysm rupture is another complication of a thoracic aortic aneurysm. It goes on to report that at the site of the aneurysm, the artery wall is quite thin. This makes it quite fragile, and there is a risk that it may burst under stress. If the thoracic aortic aneurysm ruptures suddenly, it can prove fatal for an individual.
Other Complications
MedlinePlus states that when the thoracic aortic aneurysm presses on nearby parts of the body, there are certain symptoms and complications that an individual may experience. The individual's voice may become hoarse and there may be difficulty in swallowing. Stridor, or high-pitched, breathing may occur and the individual may also develop a swelling in the neck.
