Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Aorta is the main blood vessel in the human body that runs through the chest to the abdomen and splits to move blood to the legs and feet. The abdomen region's aorta's enlargement, bulge, or swelling is known as Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA).

Abdominal aortic aneurysms occur when its walls become weak and swell up like a balloon that can rupture and cause severe bleeding. The reason for these aneurysms is unknown; however, they can be life-threatening.

It can be tough to diagnose aortic aneurysms without any severe symptoms. Physicians often detect aortic aneurysms while conducting ultrasound tests for other health conditions. They can find a lump, rigidity, or a pulse in your abdomen while examining you.

The main aim of treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm is to repair, remove and replace the damaged aorta. Endovascular surgery or open abdominal surgery is suggested if the aneurysm is more significant than 2 inches or if it's rapidly growing.

What are the risk factors and symptoms of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms?

Risk factors that weaken the aorta walls and evolve to AAA are:

Infection in the aorta
Hardening of arteries
Vascular inflammation
Smoking
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Family history of AAA or heart disease

The symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm may not show up until the aneurysm is prominent or rupturing. You may feel constant pain in the abdomen or a pulse sensation in the belly. Signs that become evident when there is a rupture are: