Aneurysms – Symptoms and Causes
What Are Aneurysms?
An aneurysm is a dangerous bulge that forms in a blood vessel wall. These bulges can appear in different parts of the body.
They may not cause any symptoms, making them difficult to detect. When an aneurysm ruptures, it causes internal bleeding that can be life-threatening.
Aneurysms can develop in several locations:
- Aortic aneurysms – occur in the body’s main artery.
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms – form in the section of the aorta running through the abdomen.
- Thoracic aortic aneurysms – develop in the chest portion of the aorta.
- Brain aneurysms – appear in blood vessels supplying the brain.
- Peripheral aneurysms – form in blood vessels in other body parts, like legs, neck, or groin.
The risk of an aneurysm rupturing depends on several factors. Healthcare providers assess this risk by evaluating:
- Your symptoms
- Personal medical history
- Family medical history
- The aneurysm’s size, shape, and location
Small aneurysms with low rupture risk might only need regular monitoring through checkups and imaging tests. However, if an aneurysm ruptures, you will need emergency surgery. In some cases, doctors can use less-invasive endovascular surgery instead of open surgery.
Medical experts estimate that 1-2% of people have aneurysms, but only a small portion of these will rupture.
When rupture occurs, the person typically experiences what they describe as “the worst headache of their life.” This represents a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
Who Faces Higher Risk?
People with these conditions should consider screening:
- Family history of aneurysms
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Connective tissue disease
- Smoking history
Quick treatment can save lives when ruptures occur. Treatment options include traditional open surgery or less-invasive approaches like sealing the damaged artery from inside using metal coils or stents.
The unpredictable nature of aneurysm ruptures makes them particularly dangerous. Many people don’t know they have an aneurysm until it causes problems or is found during tests for other conditions. Regular checkups are important for those with risk factors.
