DigiNepal · preventive
Aortic Aneurysm
What is an aortic aneurysm ? An aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in the wall of an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other parts of your body. Most aneurysms occur in the aorta , the main artery that runs from the heart through the chest and abdomen . If an aneurysm grows large, it can burst (rupture) or cause a tear in the artery wall (dissection). Both can lead to bleeding inside the body and be life-threatening. What are the types of aortic aneurysms ? There are two types of aortic aneurysm : Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) occur in the part of the aorta that runs through your abdomen (belly ). This is the most common type. Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) occur in the part of the aorta that runs through your chest. What causes an aortic aneurysm ? Aortic aneurysms develop when the aortic wall weakens over time. Sometimes the exact cause is unknown. Possible causes may include: Atherosclerosis (a buildup of fat and other substances in the arteries) Injury to the aorta Certain infections, such as syphilis Certain genetic conditions What increases the risk of an aortic aneurysm ? Factors that may increase your risk of an aortic aneurysm include: Smoking High blood pressure High cholesterol Family history of aneurysms Being male (higher risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm ) Older age (higher risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm ) Being white (higher risk for abdominal aortic aneurysm ) What are the symptoms of an aortic aneurysm ? Most aortic aneurysms don't cause symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may depend on where the aneurysm is and whether it has become large enough to af Source: MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://medlineplus.gov/aorticaneurysm.html (public domain NLM text). General information, not medical advice; consult a clinician.