An aortic aneurysm refers to a balloon-like area of swelling in the bodys largest artery, known as theaorta.
Aortic dissection happens when tearing in the artery walls causes blood to leak through.
Symptoms include:
The rupture of an aortic aneurysm can be fatal.
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You may discover that you have an aortic aneurysm through routine screening or imaging tests done for another reason.
Medications prescribed to prevent the aneurysm from growing include:
What Causes Aortic Aneurysm?
Aortic aneurysms have no single known cause.
Men over 65 have a higher chance of developing a thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysm than others.
If you have a family history of aortic aneurysms, you may be more likely to get one yourself.
Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and using stimulants, are also risk factors.
Survival Rates and Life Expectancy
When an aortic aneurysm ruptures, it is a life-threatening medical emergency.
Some estimates suggest that only 20% of people survive after an abdominal aortic aneurysm bursts.
However, if you seek treatment before an aortic aneurysm ruptures, your prognosis is significantly more positive.
This may include regularly scheduled imaging tests and follow-up appointments with your care team.
If left untreated, aortic aneurysms can lead to fatal health complications, including rupture and internal bleeding.
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