Why Early Diagnosis Matters in Aortic Aneurysm
We explain the symptoms and risk factors of aortic aneurysm and why early diagnosis is vitally important.
- An aortic aneurysm usually progresses without causing symptoms.
- The greatest risk is rupture or dissection of the aneurysm.
- High blood pressure and smoking are among the main risk factors.
- Regular monitoring is important for people with a family history of aneurysm.
- Monitoring or surgical treatment is planned according to the size and rate of growth.
An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal widening of a section of the aorta, the body’s main artery. It usually progresses without symptoms and is most often discovered by chance during imaging carried out for another reason.
As the aneurysm grows, a deep pain may be felt in the chest or abdomen; the real danger, however, is rupture of the aneurysm or separation of its layers (dissection), both of which are emergencies that threaten life.
High blood pressure, smoking, advanced age and a family history of aneurysm are the main risk factors. Regular monitoring with imaging is of great importance for people in this risk group.
Depending on the size of the aneurysm and its rate of growth, either close monitoring or surgical/endovascular treatment options are considered. Early diagnosis is decisive for a planned and safe treatment process.
