Aneurysm
What is an Aneurysm?
An Aneurysm (also spelled aneurism) is an abnormal bulge or widening of a portion of an artery. The artieries are blood vessels which carry oxygenated blood away from the heart, and their walls are thick to be able to stand up to blood pressure from the heart's pumping action. However, the balloon-like bulge of an aneurysm creates a thinner spot in the arterial wall - making that area of the artery weaker and less able to withstand high pressure.
Most aneurysms occur in the aorta, the body's main artery right above the heart. Other common locations include the brain, leg, intestine, and spleen. An aneurysm that becomes too large can burst or tear suddenly, causing bleeding into the body and often proving fatal.
What causes an Aneurysm?
Aneurysms are sometimes causes by defect in the arterial wall, aggravated by high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Smoking can also increase one's risk of an aneurysm. An aneurysm can also be congenital, or present at birth.
What are the symptoms of an Aneurysm?
While symptoms of an aneurysm may vary depending on its location within the body, pain with a swelling and throbbing mass are often experienced. Many patients present with no symptoms.
A ruptured aneurysm puts the patient at an extremely high risk of death. Common symptoms include pain, a drop in blood pressure, racing heartbeat, and lightheadedness. Patients who suspect they are experiencing a ruptured aneurysm should call 911 immediately.
How can an Aneurysm be treated?
Surgery to repair or reinforce the arterial wall is the best course of treatment for an aneurysm. Successful surgery often provides the patient an excellent outlook. Patients can help prevent aneurysms by
- Maintaining a helathy blood pressure
- Keeping their cholesterol at a healthy level
- Quitting smoking
- Exercising regularly
Learn More
To learn more about aneurysms and treatment options, please call 305-674-2273 or Contact Us online.
Diagnostic Tests
