Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms

Aorta is one of the largest arteries of the body through which the blood passes from the heart to the rest of the body. Aneurysm is a term derived from the Greek word 'aneurysma' which means widening or dilation. Thus, aortic aneurysm means an enlargement or widening of the aorta.

It usually affects a small part of the aorta and the basic reason for it is the weakening of that part. The pressure exerted by the blood flowing through it causes the weak spot to swell.

The swelling is initially small and grows as the pressure increases. This condition is dangerous as it may lead to the rupturing of the aorta, which in turn leads to internal bleeding complications.

The early stages of aortic aneurysm are often devoid of any symptom. It mostly gets diagnosed by chance when a person goes for medical examination for some other reason. However, as the complication progresses, the symptoms keep on getting noticeable.

➜ When the affected aorta swells to a critical size or breaks, an unusual ripping or tearing pain is felt in the upper chest or back. Along with the chest and back pain, an increase in sweating and rate of heartbeats is also noticed.

➜ The blood from the ruptured aorta travels in the body and settles down at any part as a blood clot. This blood clot can obstruct the normal flow of blood to any other structure of the body and further complicate the problem.

➜ In some cases, such critical symptoms are accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, and shock. Many patients frequently complain about a strong pulse in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of fullness even after eating a very small amount of food.

Now, let's take a look at the symptoms of aortic aneurysm according to its two types.

The aorta from the arch to the diaphragm is called thoracic aorta. The symptoms of thoracic aortic aneurysm are most prominent when the aorta attains a curved shape.

➜ The symptoms include recurring sharp chest pain, upper back pain, and fast breathing if the aneurysm occurs in the area of the lungs.

➜ In some cases, hoarseness in voice and difficulty in swallowing food are also noticed. This type of aneurysm always suffers the risk of bursting and rupturing hence it is life-threatening.

➜ If the swelling breaks out, an extreme fall in blood pressure along with shock is observed. Such a condition needs immediate medical intervention or else it may result in death.

The part of the aorta that starts from the diaphragm and runs till it splits to form the common iliac arteries is known as the abdominal aorta. The function of the abdominal aorta is to provide oxygenated blood to the abdominal and pelvic structures in the body.

➜ Therefore, aneurysm occurring in the abdominal aorta leads to discomfort in the abdomen, chest, lower back, groin, legs, buttocks, and the area over the kidneys called the flank. The most common symptom is however pain in the above-given body parts.

➜ The intensity of pain may range from mild to sharp and is usually not affected by movements. However, certain sitting and lying postures may be more comfortable than the others. According to many patients of this disorder, a high pulsating sensation is felt in the abdomen.

➜ In case of rupturing, blood circulation to the lower portion of the body gets badly affected, resulting in cold and tingling feet. Younger people are more prone to this type of aneurysm.

Aortic aneurysm is dangerous to life. However, the condition can be treated well if diagnosed in its initial stages. Anyone who is over the age of 55, smokes, or has a similar family history is at a higher risk of developing it than others. If a person observes the above-mentioned indicants, then he/she should visit a doctor for regular screening of this condition. Always remember that prevention is better than cure and it holds especially true for this condition.

Disclaimer: This story is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.