Aortic Aneuryms

What is an aortic aneurysm?

An enlarged aorta, or aortic aneurysm, is a bulging, weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel that results in an abnormal widening or ballooning greater than 50 percent of the normal diameter (width). It may occur in any part of the aorta. y may occur in any part of the aorta:

Ascending Aortic Aneurysm

TEVAR

Minimally Invasive Surgery

2nd Opinion

Is an aortic aneurysm dangerous?

Aortic aneurysms are the 13th leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for an estimated 15,000-20,000 deaths annually.

Aortic disease is often insidious. Most people with aortic aneurysms experience no symptoms, unless they are extremely large or an aortic dissection occurs. For most people, their aortic condition is discovered incidentally while being tested for other reasons.

Aortic aneurysms can lead to rupture or aortic dissection. The risk of these events increases as the size of the aneurysm increases. Rupture of the aorta most frequently results in immediate death. Aortic dissection is the most common catastrophe of the aorta. As many as 40% of people with aortic dissection die instantly, and the risk of the death increases 1-3% every hour.
A number of famous people have died of aortic catastrophes, including:
- Albert Einstein,
- Olympic volleyball champion Flo Hyman,
- Broadway composer of “Rent” Jonathan Larson,
- diplomat Richard Holbrook,
- Lucille Ball,
- George C. Scott, and
- actor John Ritter

What are the Symptoms of Aortic Aneurysms?

Aortic disease is often insidious. Most people with aortic aneurysms experience no symptoms, unless they are extremely large or an aortic dissection occurs. For most people, their aortic condition is discovered incidentally while being tested for other reasons.

When symptoms occur, they may include pain in the jaw, neck, chest and/or back; wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath; hoarseness or difficulty swallowing. The symptoms of an aneurysm may resemble other medical conditions or problems, including heart attacks, pneumonia, and digestive conditions. Always consult your physician for more information.

How can I prevent an aortic dissection and/or further growth of an aneurysm?

You can help prevent an aortic dissection and/or further growth of an aneurysm by doing the following:

Control your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, get a home blood pressure measuring device to help you monitor and keep your blood pressure well controlled.
Don't smoke. Or, if you do, take steps to stop.
Maintain an ideal weight. Follow a low-salt diet and exercise regularly.
Watch your cholesterol. Keep your cholesterol levels within a range that is recommended by your doctor.
Continue low-impact exercise (eg brisk walking). Avoid high-impact exercise that significantly increases your blood pressure (eg weight training)
Wear a seat belt. This reduces the risk of traumatic injury to your chest area.
Keep your doctor well-informed. If you have a family history of aortic dissection, let your doctor know.