The ascending aorta is the first section of the large artery that delivers oxygen and nutrients in the form of blood from the heart to other regions of the body. People who develop a weakened portion of the ascending aortic wall may be diagnosed with a condition called an ascending aorta thoracic aneurysm. In the United States, approximately 15,000 people develop some type of thoracic aortic aneurysm each year, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Many people with this condition do not exhibit specific symptoms; however, symptomatic people should seek care from a medical professional as soon as possible.
Chest, Back, Neck or Jaw Pain
An ascending aortic thoracic aneurysm may cause sensations of pain within a person's upper body. Affected people may experience mild to severe discomfort in the center of the chest, middle or upper back, neck or jaw. Depending upon the severity of the aneurysm, pain symptoms may develop suddenly or progressively. Acute chest or upper body pain are also signs of a heart attack and affected people should seek emergency medical care.
Upper Body Swelling
The accumulation of blood within the aorta may cause upper body swelling in people with this type of aneurysm, Stanford Hospital and Clinics reports. People who experience swelling may notice that their arms, neck or face appear unusually puffy or enlarged. Severe swelling may interfere with a person's ability to freely more or rotate the affected body regions. If such symptoms develop, affected people should consult a physician as soon as possible.
Breathing Difficulties or Hoarseness
Unusual blood flow from the heart caused by an ascending aortic thoracic aneurysm may lead to breathing difficulties in certain people, the Cleveland Clinic warns. Symptoms may include shortness or breath or a persistent, dry cough. Certain people may also experience vocal hoarseness, which may cause their voice to sound rough or raspy when they attempt to speak. People who experience the sudden onset of these symptoms should contact a doctor immediately, as breathing difficulties can be signs of alternate health problems, including an asthma attack or a heart attack.
