Aneurysms are a dangerous swelling or bulge of blood vessels. Aneurysms can occur in any part of the vascular system, but aortic aneurysms occur in the area of the chest and heart. The main cause is a weakness in the arterial wall, causing a bulge of blood that eventually creates enough pressure to burst. Mortality of aneurysms depends on the size of the rupture. Large arterial bursts will be fatal if not treated and minimized. Unfortunately, most aneurysms provide few clues to their existence.
Causes
The most common cause of aortic aneurysms is arteriosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis is a heart disease condition that creates plaque buildup in the arteries. This plaque accumulation causes the arterial walls to weaken. There are other causes for aortic aneurysms, such as hereditary disorders or a condition of the connection tissue called Marfan syndrome. Additionally, high blood pressure and cigarette smoking increase the risk of aortic aneurysms.
Anatomic Locations
Most aortic aneurysms happen in the abdomen. Only one-fourth of aortic aneurysms occur in the thoracic area. For older people, aneurysms are most likely to occur in areas of the arterial system that branch. As main arteries branch out, they become smaller arteries until they branch to even smaller capillary vessels. As these arteries branch, the walls become thinner, leaving them more susceptible to aneurysms.
Abdominal Symptoms
Abdominal aortic aneurysms are usually asymptomatic. Some patients might experience a pulsing sensation in the abdomen, which is a sign of a potential rupture. Because this feeling is not severe, most patients ignore the warning signs. When the aneurysm ruptures, severe pain occurs. The pain might radiate into the back, and this is a sign of blood leaking. When the vessels completely burst, pain is excruciating. If not treated immediately, the rupture leads to shock and ultimately death.
Thoracic Symptoms
Thoracic aneurysms occur between the heart and the aorta. The bursts that happen in thoracic aneurysms usually occur from Marfan syndrome. These aneurysms cause a malfunction in the valves of the heart and blood rushes back into the heart after being pumped. Just like other aortic aneurysms, thoracic symptoms are usually asymptomatic. When the vessels burst, extreme pain in the chest and back occur and coughing and wheezing persist. Occasionally, a cough is accompanied by blood in the sputum.
Diagnosis
Most aortic aneurysms are diagnosed by symptoms, but a CT scan can also be ordered by the doctor for confirmation. The tests can be used to determine the size of the aneurysm. If one is detected, normal surgical procedures follow.
Tags: aortic aneurysms, aneurysms occur, aneurysms usually, aortic aneurysms occur, arteries branch, bulge blood