What Is An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Causes, Groups At Risk And Symptoms

[LoShiNi]

The main blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs is called the aorta. An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when the lower part of the aorta becomes very large, literally balloons out.

Patients with ruptured AAA find themselves in a life-threatening situation as 65% of them die of a sudden cardiovascular collapse before they are even taken to the hospital.

Causes

Although the exact cause of AAA is unknown, there are factors that increase weakness of the aorta wall:

>> smoking;

>> atherosclerosis;

>> high blood pressure;

>> diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels;

>> traumas;

>> genetic factors.

The high-risk groups are:

>> people age 65 and older;

>> smokers;

>> males;

>> people with family history;

>> people with atherosclerosis;

>> people with other aneurysms;

>> people with high blood pressure.


Symptoms

The problem is that in the majority of cases, an aortic aneurysm develops slowly with minor symptoms if any.

That is why you should be very attentive and turn to your doctor if you experience such symptoms:

>> severe, sudden, persistent or constant pain in the abdomen area or back, which can spread to the

>>buttocks and legs;

>> pulsating feeling near the navel;

>> dizziness;

>> nausea and vomiting;

>> rapid heart rate;

>> passing out;

>> clammy skin;

>> increased sweating;

>> low blood pressure.

If you have any of the symptoms listed above, you should immediately see your doctor! Take care of yourself!