1. Aneurysm Explained
An aneurysm is a weakened part of a blood vessel that balloons out with blood. Because it balloons out, the blood vessel becomes weak at that point. An aortic aneurysm is located in the aortic artery. Most aortic aneurysms occur in the abdominal area, but aortic aneurysms can also occur in the chest. Some aneurysms are slow growing while others weaken the aorta quickly. The causes of aortic aneurysms include a traumatic injury to the artery itself or it can be congenital which is something you were born with. Aneurysms can also run in families. High blood pressure and smoking increase the risk of an aortic aneurysm as well. Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) is a contributing factor as is inflammation from an infection (vasculitis). People who have Marfan's syndrome are at a greater risk for an aortic aneurysm. Marfan's syndrome is a group of symptoms, usually characterized by unusually tall height and long arms.
2. Possible Pulsations
Some aortic aneurysms have no symptoms at all and are often diagnosed when getting an x-ray, MRI or CT scan for another problem. If an aneurysm is located in the abdomen, you may feel a pulsation close to the navel. The pulsation feels like your pulse or heartbeat. Other symptoms may include pain or tenderness in the back, chest or abdomen. You may have absolutely no symptoms until the aneurysm reaches a larger size.
3. Pain Signals Problems
As the aortic aneurysm enlarges, pain may be present. If you know you have an aneurysm and experience pain in the abdomen, chest or back it's time to visit the doctor. Most aneurysms are very slow growing and are monitored regularly by the doctor, yet an aneurysm can suddenly enlarge and cause pain. This could be dangerous, so you must see the doctor immediately.
4. When Pain Signals a Medical Emergency
A dissecting aortic aneurysm occurs when an aneurysm starts to tear. The aorta is made up of layers, and any one of these layers or all three layers can dissect. This is a medical emergency, and you must seek treatment immediately. The primary symptom of a dissecting aortic aneurysm is extreme pain in the back, chest or abdomen that feels like something is tearing. The pain is so intense that most people seek treatment immediately. Depending on the type and location of the dissection, medical treatment or surgery may be necessary. Most doctors prefer to manage the dissection medically whenever possible, but many dissections must be surgically repaired. Medical treatments include greatly reducing blood pressure and heart rate while the aorta heals. If you have an aortic aneurysm and feel a severe and tearing pain, get to an emergency room immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency.
