What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

When the abdominal aorta enlarges and bulges at a certain point, doctors refer to this condition as an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This condition is more common in men than in women. An abdominal aortic aneurysm often does not cause serious problems. However, if it ruptures, it is an emergency that requires immediate intervention.

At a Glance:

• When a bulge (aneurysm) forms at a point in the abdominal artery (abdominal aorta), it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
• The aneurysm usually does not cause symptoms and therefore often goes unnoticed.
• A rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is a medical emergency that can lead to death.
• The likelihood of rupture depends on the size of the aneurysm and other risk factors.
• Approximately 2% of men aged 65 to 75 have an aneurysm in the abdominal aorta, while it is significantly rarer in women.
• Men over the age of 65 can undergo screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms as part of health checks.

Note: The information in this text does not replace a doctor’s visit and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment.

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm refers to the pathological enlargement of the abdominal aorta.

The aorta is the main artery through which oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the heart to the rest of the body. The main artery in the abdominal cavity is called the abdominal aorta. It is normally about 2 centimeters in diameter. An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when the abdominal aorta enlarges at a certain point and forms a bulge with a diameter larger than 3 centimeters.

Usually, an aneurysm does not cause symptoms and many aneurysms remain harmless. However, if the aneurysm continues to expand, the abdominal aorta may rupture unexpectedly. This is a life-threatening emergency.

How Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Detected?

Most abdominal aortic aneurysms do not cause any symptoms and therefore may go unnoticed.

Larger aneurysms, if they cause symptoms, might lead to back and abdominal pain. Pain on the side may also occur.

If the abdominal aorta ruptures, there will be sudden pain in the back that can radiate to the sides or groin. A rupture causes significant blood loss, which may result in dizziness, fainting, and circulatory collapse.

What Are the Causes of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm can develop when the elasticity of the artery wall decreases. Elasticity reduces with age and when the artery is under strain, such as from high blood pressure. Smoking also increases the risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

When swelling occurs, the arterial wall at that point tends to continue expanding more easily. Consequently, an aneurysm generally grows over time.

Factors Increasing the Risk of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm