An aortic aneurysm may sound complicated, but it’s simply a bulge in the wall of your body’s largest artery, the aorta. It occurs when the artery wall weakens and balloons outward, which can lead to serious health risks if it continues to grow or ruptures.
You may not notice any symptoms initially, but this condition can quickly become life-threatening without proper treatment.
You face a higher chance of developing an aortic aneurysm if you smoke, have high blood pressure, or have a family history of the condition. Age and certain inherited disorders can also raise your risk.
Treatment depends on the size and location of the aneurysm. In some cases, medicines help control blood pressure and slow growth.
In others, surgery may be the safest option.
An aortic aneurysm happens when part of the wall of your aorta weakens and bulges outward. This condition can develop slowly without symptoms but may become dangerous if the bulge grows large or ruptures.
An aortic aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in the wall of your aorta. The aorta is the body’s largest artery, carrying oxygen-rich blood from your heart to the rest of your body.
The artery wall typically stays strong and flexible. When part of it weakens, blood pressure pushes against the weak spot, causing it to stretch and enlarge.
Most aneurysms do not initially cause symptoms. They are often found during imaging tests done for other reasons.
If the bulge grows too large, it can rupture or tear, which is a life-threatening condition that requires urgent medical attention.
Doctors often measure aneurysms by their size. A normal aorta is about 2 centimeters wide, but an aneurysm is usually diagnosed when it grows to 1.5 times its standard size or more.
An aortic aneurysm forms when the wall of the artery becomes weak or damaged. Over time, the constant pressure of blood flow causes the weakened area to balloon outward.
Several factors increase the risk of this happening. These include high blood pressure, smoking, atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries), genetic conditions, and aging.
Injuries or infections can also damage the aorta and lead to aneurysms. The process often develops slowly.
You may not feel anything as the aneurysm grows. In some cases, the first sign is sudden pain from a rupture or tear.
This is why screening is essential if you have known risk factors.
Healthy lifestyle choices, such as controlling blood pressure and avoiding tobacco, may reduce the chance of an aneurysm forming or getting worse.
Aortic aneurysms can occur in different parts of the aorta. The two main types are:
Both types can grow without symptoms. They may cause pain in the chest, back, or abdomen if they expand or press on nearby organs.
Doctors use imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to locate and measure the aneurysm. The type and size help guide treatment decisions, which may include monitoring, medication, or surgery.
Aortic aneurysms can develop in various parts of the aorta, and their location often affects symptoms, risks, and treatment options. Some forms grow slowly and remain unnoticed, while others can lead to sudden and dangerous complications.
An abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA, forms in the lower section of the aorta that runs through your abdomen. This is the most common type of aortic aneurysm.
You may not notice any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. When symptoms appear, they can include a pulsing feeling near your belly button, deep abdominal pain, or back pain.
These signs often appear only when the aneurysm becomes large or is close to rupturing. Risk factors for AAA include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and age over 65.
Men are more likely than women to develop this condition. If you have a family history of aneurysms, your risk is also higher.
Screening with an ultrasound is often recommended for men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked. Detecting an AAA early allows doctors to monitor its growth and determine if surgery is necessary.
Repair options include open surgery or endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
A thoracic aortic aneurysm occurs in the part of the aorta that passes through your chest. It is less common than AAA but can be just as serious.
This type may cause chest pain, back pain, coughing, or shortness of breath. Symptoms often appear late, which makes regular imaging vital if you are at risk.
Risk factors include genetic connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, high blood pressure, and a history of chest trauma.
Unlike AAA, thoracic aneurysms are more commonly associated with inherited conditions. Treatment depends on the size and growth rate of the tumor.
Smaller aneurysms may only need regular CT or MRI scans and blood pressure control. Larger aneurysms or those causing symptoms typically require surgical repair, which may involve replacing the affected section of the aorta.
An aortic dissection happens when a tear develops in the inner wall of the aorta. Blood then flows between the layers of the wall, creating a false channel.
This can cut off blood supply to organs and is a medical emergency. Symptoms often include sudden and severe chest or back pain, sometimes described as tearing.
You may also experience fainting, weakness, or stroke-like symptoms if blood flow to the brain is reduced. Dissections are classified into Type A (involving the ascending aorta near the heart) and Type B (involving the descending aorta).
Type A is more dangerous and usually requires urgent surgery. Type B may be managed with medication or surgery, depending on complications.
Other less common variants include aortic root aneurysms, which can affect the aortic valve, and thoracoabdominal aneurysms, which extend across both chest and abdominal sections. These forms are rare but require specialized care.
An aortic aneurysm develops when the wall of the aorta weakens and bulges outward. This weakening can result from long-term strain on the artery, inherited conditions that affect connective tissue, or damage caused by infection or injury.
One of the most common causes is atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty deposits inside your arteries. These deposits weaken and make the vessel walls less flexible.
Over time, the pressure of blood flow against these weakened walls can cause them to bulge. High blood pressure plays a significant role in this process.
When your blood pressure stays high for years, it increases the force against the artery wall. This constant strain makes the aorta more likely to stretch and form an aneurysm.
Other cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease and peripheral artery disease, often occur alongside atherosclerosis. These conditions add more stress to your vascular system and further increase the risk of complications.
In many cases, people with both atherosclerosis and uncontrolled high blood pressure face a much higher chance of developing an aneurysm compared to those without these factors.
Several inherited conditions affect the strength of your connective tissue, which helps support the aorta. Marfan syndrome is one of the most well-known.
It causes the aortic wall to be weaker and more likely to stretch. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is another disorder that impacts connective tissue.
In this condition, the collagen in your body does not form properly, leaving blood vessels fragile and more prone to aneurysms. Other genetic factors include Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Turner syndrome, and a bicuspid aortic valve, a defect characterized by a valve with two leaflets instead of the usual three.
Each of these can make the aortic wall less stable. If you have a close relative with an aortic aneurysm, your chances of developing one are higher.
Family history is a significant risk factor, even if you do not have a specific genetic syndrome.
Certain infections can damage the aorta and lead to an aneurysm. For example, untreated syphilis may involve the aorta and cause its wall to weaken.
Bacterial infections can also trigger inflammation that increases the risk. Physical injury is another cause.
A substantial impact, such as from a car accident or a fall, can harm the aortic wall. This trauma may not cause an immediate aneurysm, but can weaken the tissue over time.
Rare inflammatory conditions, such as vasculitis, may also damage blood vessels. This inflammation can make the aorta more fragile and prone to bulging.
Although less common than atherosclerosis or genetic causes, infections and trauma remain essential factors to consider when evaluating your risk for an aortic aneurysm.
Your chances of developing an aortic aneurysm depend on several factors that affect the strength and health of your blood vessels. Age, lifestyle choices, and inherited conditions all play an essential role in whether your aorta may weaken and bulge over time.
The risk of an aortic aneurysm increases as you get older. The walls of your arteries naturally lose elasticity with age, which makes them more prone to damage.
Most cases occur in people over the age of 65. Gender also matters.
Men are more likely than women to develop abdominal aortic aneurysms, although women may face a higher risk of rupture once an aneurysm forms. Screening guidelines often focus on men aged 65 to 75 who have smoked at any point in their lives.
While women are less often diagnosed, doctors may recommend testing if you have additional risk factors such as high blood pressure or a strong family history.
Smoking is the single most crucial lifestyle-related risk factor for aortic aneurysm. Tobacco weakens the walls of your arteries and accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis, or the hardening of the arteries.
Studies show that most abdominal aortic aneurysms occur in people with a history of smoking. Other lifestyle factors also raise your risk.
High blood pressure puts extra strain on the aorta, and high cholesterol contributes to plaque buildup that makes the artery wall less flexible. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity further increase these risks.
Making changes such as quitting smoking, improving your diet, and controlling blood pressure can lower your chances of developing an aneurysm. These steps also reduce the risk of rupture if an aneurysm is already present.
Your family history plays a significant role in your risk for aortic aneurysm. If a parent, sibling, or close relative has had one, your chances of developing one are higher.
Doctors sometimes recommend earlier or more frequent screening if you have this background. Certain inherited conditions also increase risk.
Disorders such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome weaken connective tissue, including the walls of the arteries. This increases the likelihood of aneurysms forming, even at a younger age.
If you know of a family history of aortic aneurysm or connective tissue disease, share this with your doctor.
An aortic aneurysm often develops silently, but certain signs can signal changes that need medical attention. Some aneurysms remain unnoticed for years, while others cause discomfort or become emergencies if they rupture or dissect.
In the early stages, you may not notice any symptoms at all. Many aneurysms are found during imaging tests done for other reasons.
This is why doctors often refer to them as “silent” conditions. Sometimes, you might feel a pulsating sensation in your abdomen.
This can feel like a heartbeat in your stomach. Other possible early signs include a sense of fullness after eating small amounts of food, mild nausea, or occasional discomfort in the belly or back.
Because these signs are vague, they are often overlooked. Most small aneurysms do not cause pain or visible changes.
As an aneurysm grows larger, it can begin to press on nearby organs and tissues. This pressure may cause chest pain, abdominal pain, or back pain that does not improve with rest.
The pain is often steady and may get worse over time. You might notice shortness of breath if the aneurysm presses on the airway or lungs.
Some people also experience coughing, hoarseness, or difficulty swallowing when the aneurysm is located in the chest. In the abdomen, a growing aneurysm can create a visibly pulsating bulge.
This is especially noticeable in individuals with thinner builds. These symptoms suggest the aneurysm is expanding and needs closer monitoring.
A ruptured aneurysm or aortic dissection is a medical emergency. The most common warning is sudden, severe pain.
You may experience sharp chest pain, abdominal pain, or back pain that develops suddenly and feels distinct from typical aches. Other symptoms include:
These signs occur because rupture leads to internal bleeding and a dangerous drop in blood pressure. If bleeding continues, organs do not get enough blood, which can cause shock or even cardiac arrest.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
An aortic aneurysm can create serious health problems if it grows or tears. The most concerning issues include rupture, dissection, and the formation of blood clots that may lead to stroke.
A rupture happens when the wall of the aorta tears open. This causes severe internal bleeding, which is often life-threatening.
You may feel sudden, sharp, and intense pain in your chest, abdomen, or back. If the rupture is significant, your blood pressure can drop quickly.
This may cause dizziness, fainting, or even shock. Emergency surgery is the only option to repair a ruptured aneurysm.
Doctors may use either open surgery or endovascular repair, depending on your condition.
An aortic dissection occurs when a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta. Blood then flows between the layers of the artery wall, which separates them.
This weakens the vessel and can reduce or block blood flow to vital organs. The most common symptom is sudden, severe chest or back pain that feels sharp or tearing in nature.
Some people may also experience shortness of breath, fainting, or weakness in one side of the body. Aortic dissection is a medical emergency.
Treatment usually requires urgent surgery if the tear is in the chest portion of the aorta. In some cases, blood pressure–lowering medicines may be used to reduce stress on the artery wall.
An aneurysm can cause blood to pool inside the bulging section of the artery. This slow flow increases the risk of blood clots forming.
If a clot breaks loose, it can travel through your bloodstream. A clot that blocks blood flow to the brain can cause a stroke.
Symptoms may include sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, or loss of vision. A clot can also block blood flow to your legs, kidneys, or other organs.
Doctors may prescribe blood-thinning medication to lower the risk of clot formation. In some cases, surgery to repair the aneurysm also reduces the chance of stroke or other clot-related complications.
You need timely and accurate tests to confirm an aortic aneurysm and measure its size. Doctors use imaging tools to detect aneurysms, track growth, and decide when treatment is necessary.
Regular screening helps find abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) before they cause serious problems.
Your doctor often begins with a physical exam, but most aneurysms are found through imaging. Ultrasound is the most common test for abdominal aortic aneurysm because it is quick, safe, and reliable.
It shows the size of the aorta and whether it is enlarging. For thoracic aneurysms, doctors usually use CT scans or MRI scans.
These tests provide detailed images of the chest and can identify the exact location and size of the aneurysm. A CT angiogram uses contrast dye to highlight blood vessels and is often used before surgery.
In some cases, an echocardiogram is used to look at the aortic root near the heart. This test is critical if you have a genetic condition associated with aneurysms, such as Marfan syndrome.
The choice of test depends on the part of the aorta affected, your health, and whether your doctor needs ongoing monitoring.
Screening aims to catch aneurysms early, especially abdominal aortic aneurysms. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a one-time ultrasound for men aged 65–75 who have ever smoked.
This group has a higher risk of AAA. If you have a family history of aortic aneurysm, your doctor may suggest screening at a younger age.
Individuals with inherited connective tissue disorders may also require earlier and more frequent screenings. Routine screening is not typically recommended for women unless they have significant risk factors.
However, women with a history of smoking or family history may benefit from an ultrasound. Once an aneurysm is found, follow-up imaging is scheduled based on its size and growth rate.
Small aneurysms may only need monitoring every 6–12 months, while larger ones require closer follow-up or treatment planning.
Treatment depends on the size, location, and growth rate of the aneurysm, as well as your overall health and medical condition. Small aneurysms may only require close monitoring and medication, while larger or rapidly growing aneurysms often necessitate surgery to prevent rupture.
If your aortic aneurysm is small or not causing symptoms, your doctor may recommend regular imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI. These scans track changes in the aneurysm’s size and growth over time.
You may also need medicines to lower high blood pressure, since this reduces stress on the aortic wall. Common options include:
Lifestyle changes support these treatments. Quitting smoking, eating a heart-healthy diet, and staying active with light to moderate exercise can slow aneurysm growth.
You should also avoid heavy lifting or stimulant drugs that raise blood pressure suddenly.
Surgery is often recommended if the aneurysm is large, growing quickly, or at risk of rupture. The two main options are open surgical repair and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
Open surgical repair involves removing the damaged section of the aorta and replacing it with a synthetic graft. This method is more invasive and usually requires a longer recovery period.
EVAR is a less invasive procedure that uses a stent graft placed through a small incision, typically in the groin. The graft reinforces the weakened section of the aorta from inside the blood vessel.
EVAR often has a shorter recovery time, but not all aneurysms are suitable for this approach. Both procedures carry risks such as bleeding, infection, or complications with the graft.
Your surgical team will weigh these risks against the chance of rupture.
After surgery or while under medical management, you will need regular follow-up care. Imaging tests check for changes in the aneurysm or issues with a graft.
You may need to take blood pressure medicine for life. Keeping your blood pressure under control helps protect the aorta and lowers the chance of future problems.
Healthy habits remain essential. Avoid smoking, maintain a balanced diet, and keep your cholesterol levels in check.
Moderate physical activity is often safe, but should be approved by your doctor. Long-term monitoring is essential, since aneurysms can recur or new ones may develop.
You can lower your chances of developing an aortic aneurysm by controlling certain health factors, avoiding harmful habits, and staying aware of family-related risks. Paying attention to your blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking status, and genetic background helps reduce strain on the aorta and supports long-term heart health.
High blood pressure is one of the strongest risk factors for an aortic aneurysm. When pressure inside your arteries stays elevated, it weakens the vessel walls over time, making them more likely to bulge.
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure range reduces this strain. You should monitor your blood pressure regularly, either at home or during medical visits.
Aim for levels recommended by your doctor, which typically means a blood pressure reading below 120/80 mmHg for most adults. If you have high blood pressure, medicines such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors may be prescribed.
Cholesterol also plays a role. High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
This buildup makes the aorta stiffer and more prone to aneurysm formation. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage cholesterol.
Regular exercise, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes most days, also improves blood pressure and cholesterol control.
| Factor | Target/Action |
| Blood Pressure | <120/80 mmHg (general goal) |
| LDL Cholesterol | Lower is better; <100 mg/dL is often advised |
| Lifestyle Support | Diet, exercise, limited alcohol, no smoking |
Smoking is one of the most important preventable causes of aortic aneurysms. Chemicals in tobacco damage the walls of your arteries, making them weaker and more likely to form aneurysms.
Quitting smoking lowers this risk and also improves overall heart and lung function. If you smoke, ask your healthcare provider about nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications that reduce cravings.
Support programs, apps, and counseling can also improve your chances of success. Even reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke each day can help while you work toward quitting altogether.
Other habits matter too. Heavy weightlifting, stimulant drug use, and poor diet can raise your risk.
Focus on moderate physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting your alcohol consumption. These steps help keep your arteries strong and reduce the chance of complications.
Family history is a significant factor in the development of aortic aneurysms. If a parent, sibling, or child has had an aneurysm, your own risk is higher.
Inherited conditions, such as Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, also increase the risk of developing problems in the aorta.
You should discuss your family history with your doctor. If risk is present, genetic counseling may be recommended.
Counselors can explain how inherited traits affect your health. They can also discuss whether testing is appropriate for you or your relatives.
Screening tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, may be advised if you have a strong family history. These imaging studies allow doctors to measure the size of your aorta and detect aneurysms early.
An aortic aneurysm is a serious condition, but early awareness and consistent care can make all the difference. Patients can take charge of their health and avoid preventable emergencies by understanding what causes aneurysms, who is most at risk, and how symptoms progress. Regular screenings, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and controlling blood pressure, and timely medical treatment can significantly reduce risks. Whether through careful monitoring, medications, or surgical intervention, there are proven ways to manage this condition and safeguard long-term well-being. Above all, staying informed and working closely with a trusted cardiology team empowers you to make the right decisions for your future health.
Don’t wait until symptoms become dangerous—book an appointment with CVG Cares today for expert care and peace of mind.
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