What Is Aortic Aneurysm?

This refers to a dilated aorta at more than 1.5 times normal size. There are a number of causes, but the condition ultimately results in underlying weakness in the aortic wall.

It can cause pain at times, which is a sign of potential rupture. When aneurysm rupture occurs, it will cause a massive internal hemorrhage. Unless this treated immediately, shock and death will take place within minutes to hours.

What Causes Aortic Aneurysm?

Weakness in the collagen and smooth muscle that support the artery in the abdomen cause this disease. Inflammation, unnatural diet, and weak muscles in the diaphragm trigger the weakness. Surgery for the condition is dangerous and one should avoid it, except for emergencies.

Normally the walls of the artery have a certain thickness and muscularity. Thus, they are able to withstand a large amount of pressure. A weakened area of the artery can allow the pressure within to push the area outwards and this creates a bulge i.e. the ballooned area called an “aneurysm”.

Where does this condition form?

While they can form in any blood vessel, they are mostly found in the aorta and this is the largest artery within the body that carries blood from the heart throughout the entire system. The smaller aneurysms generally hold no threat but larger aneurysms can pose an increased risk of blood clots forming at the site and dislodging which can then increase the chance of a stroke.

The increased size of the aneurysm can also cause it to press onto other organs and this can create pain. Aneurysm ruptures can occur due to the artery wall being thin and fragile, so it may be more likely to burst under stressful conditions. This results in a major life-threatening event and medical assistance must be sought immediately.

For help with the above condition, check out this Aortic Aneurysm treatment Health Plan.