What is an Aortic Aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm is a dangerous bulge or ballooning in the wall of your body’s main artery – the aorta.
Think of it like a weak spot in a tire – if it bursts, it can be life-threatening.
Where can it happen?
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) – in the belly (most common)
Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm (TAA) – in the chest
Why does it happen?
The wall of the aorta weakens due to:
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Smoking 🚬
Aging (common after 60 years)
Family history of aneurysms
Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)
Rare connective tissue disorders (like Marfan’s syndrome)
What symptoms should I look out for?
Most aneurysms are silent killers – no symptoms until they grow large or rupture.
Warning signs may include:
Pulsating feeling in the abdomen
Deep, constant abdominal or back pain
Sudden, severe chest or belly pain (emergency 🚨)
Dizziness or fainting if rupture occurs
How is it diagnosed?
Ultrasound (Abdominal scan) – quick and painless
CT Angiography – detailed 3D view of aneurysm size & location
Can an aneurysm be prevented?
You can reduce risk by:
Quitting smoking 🚭
Controlling blood pressure & cholesterol
Eating healthy & staying active
Regular screening as advised by your vascular surgeon