Aortic Aneurysm

When the wall of an artery becomes thin and weak, it can stretch and bulge like a balloon. This weakened area is called an aneurysm. When it happens in the aorta, it’s called an aortic aneurysm. The most common part of the aorta affected is in the abdominal (stomach) area. This is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA. Since the aorta is the main artery out of your heart, an aortic aneurysm is a dangerous condition. If it grows large enough or weak enough, the artery wall can rupture, leading to life-threatening bleeding.

Causes

The most common causes of aortic aneurysm are atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and high blood pressure. At highest risk are males over the age of 60 who smoke and people with a family history of AAA. If you’re at risk, you should be evaluated early and monitored regularly.

Symptoms

Unfortunately, aortic aneurysms often produce no symptoms until they rupture. Before rupture, some patients with an AAA may experience severe, steady back or abdominal pain that is not relieved by pain medication. Sometimes your healthcare provider can detect a mass in your abdomen.

Prevention

Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help you prevent the clogged arteries that can cause an aortic aneurysm.

• Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat sources of protein such as nuts and fish
• Exercise regularly
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight and keep diabetes under control
• Quit smoking

Diagnostic Testing

• Cardiovascular Diagnostic Testing
  • Blood Tests
  • Echocardiography
  • Medical History & Physical Exam
  • Peripheral Vascular Studies
• Cardiovascular Advanced Imaging
  • Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Treatment Procedures

• Cardiac Cath Lab Interventional Procedures
  • Stent Placement
• Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Aneurysm Repair

Medication

Taking medications is one of the most important aspects of your treatment. To get the most benefit from your heart medications and avoid mistakes and complications, it helps to understand why you’re taking them and how they work.

Intermountain Healthcare resources on high blood pressure

• Blood Pressure Basics: What you need to know to manage your blood pressure
• Blood Pressure Tracker: A tool for keeping track of your blood pressure

Intermountain Healthcare resources on heart healthy living

• Nutrition for a Healthy Heart
• The Weigh to Health: What you need to know to reach and maintain a healthy weight
  • En Español
• Healthy Choices for Families
• En Español
• Journey to Freedom: A Guide to Quitting Smoking
  • En Español
• Heart Care Handbook Chapter 7 - Activity for a Healthy Heart
• Heart Care Handbook Chapter 9 - More Healthy Habits

Additional Resources

• American Heart Association (AHA)
• Medline Plus Heart Pages