Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Graphic

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) are caused by progressive weakening of the aortic wall creating a “ballooning” of the vessel.

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body. It is the main artery that carries blood from the heart to other areas in the body, including the legs and feet. An aneurysm occurs when you have bulging of the wall of an artery. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is the bulging or “ballooning” of the aorta in your abdominal area.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Graphic

Causes

While the exact cause is not entirely known, a AAA happens when there is a breakdown of proteins in the aortic wall. Proteins provide structure to the aortic wall, like poles that prop up a tent or an umbrella. Weak proteins provide less structure for the aorta, which causes it to steadily expand like a balloon over time.

Symptoms

In most cases, AAAs do not have any major symptoms. However, some people report feeling: 

  • Pain in the chest, abdominal area, back, or side 

  • Nausea 

  • Significant pulsating in their abdomen 

What is a Ruptured Aneurysm?

When an aneurysm ruptures (bursts), it is a medical emergency. You will need surgery right away. Here are the signs and symptoms of a ruptured AAA: 

  • Sudden, severe, and constant pain in the abdomen or back 

  • Loss of consciousness or passing out 

  • Clammy skin 

  • Dizziness 

  • Nausea 

  • Vomiting 

  • Fast heartbeat

Diagnosis

Most patients have no symptoms. If you are at risk, make sure to discuss AAA with your healthcare provider. Although AAAs can be detected during a regular physical examination, most are diagnosed with an ultrasound or CT (computed tomography) scan or MRI.

Treatment & Recovery

You’ll need surgery if the AAA is larger than 5cm or approximately the size of a lemon. Most patients stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure and make a full recovery within one to two months. Your healthcare provider’s decision to repair the AAA will likely depend on these factors: 

  • Risk for rupture, or AAA breaking 

  • How quickly it’s growing 

  • Surgical or procedure risks due to a previous medical condition

There have been recent advances in  less in less invasive treatment for AAAs, such as catheter-based procedures. Speak with your healthcare provider about the best option for you.

Risk Factors

  • Age (65 and older)

  • Tobacco use

  • High blood pressure

  • Individuals with genetic factors

  • Peripheral Artery Disease

  • Chronic-obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

  • Male gender

  • 1st degree relative with AAA

Resources

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