What is an aneurysm?
An aneurysm, also known as aneurysmal dilation, is the result of a weakened area in the wall of an artery that leads to a bulge of the vessel. This abnormal widening can occur in various parts of the body, such as the brain, aorta, neck, intestines, kidneys, spleen, and leg vessels. Aneurysms also vary in shape and cause. While often asymptomatic, a ruptured aneurysm poses severe risks and can potentially cause fatal complications.
What are the different types of aneurysms?
Aneurysms manifest in various body locations and are named accordingly. Common types include:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm in the aorta (one of the more serious aneurysm types)
- Carotid artery aneurysm in the neck
- Cerebral aneurysm, or berry aneurysm, in the brain’s blood vessel wall
- Femoral artery aneurysm affecting the femoral artery in the groin
- Iliac artery aneurysm affecting the iliac artery in the pelvis
- Mesenteric artery aneurysm impacting the intestine-transporting artery
- Popliteal aneurysm in the area behind the knee
- Splenic aneurysm near the spleen
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm in the section of the aorta located in the chest
- Ventricular aneurysm in the heart wall
Aneurysms are also categorized by shape:
- Fusiform aneurysms indicate a bulge on all sides of the blood vessel
- Saccular aneurysms bulge only on one side of the vessel, with rupture risk linked to bulge size
What are the symptoms of aneurysm?
Aneurysms, often asymptomatic in the early stages, can manifest through symptoms such as:
- Bleeding
- Fever
- Pain in the abdomen, back, or chest
- Weakness
- Weight loss
When an aneurysm ruptures, it becomes a medical emergency and may cause sudden symptoms, such as lightheadedness, rapid heartbeat, potential loss of consciousness, and severe pain in the abdomen, back, or chest. The location of the aneurysm dictates which specific symptoms may appear, including confusion, dizziness, difficulty swallowing, fatigue, vomiting, and pulsating mass or swelling in the abdomen or neck.
What causes an aneurysm?
Aneurysms can be present from birth, or they can develop at any stage in life due to causes that are often unclear. While the exact cause may be unknown, blockages like fatty deposits, damaged arterial tissue, and increased blood pressure due to stress may play a role. Some other possible causes of aneurysms include:
- Aortic injuries
- Atherosclerosis
- Family history of aneurysms
- High blood pressure
How is an aneurysm diagnosed?
Most aneurysms develop without symptoms and may be discovered incidentally during routine checkups or screenings, or when aneurysm symptoms arise. Your doctor may use one or more imaging tools to diagnosis the condition.
How is an aneurysm treated?
Aneurysm treatment requires a tailored approach to care. At Penn Medicine, your care team may develop a plan that includes a combination of medications to control blood pressure, blood thinners to prevent clotting, and other treatments that will give you the best possible outcome.
Are aneurysms preventable?
Because of their often-sudden onset, aneurysms can’t always be prevented, but there are things you can do to lower your risk of developing one. You might consider:
- Consuming a nutrient-rich diet with fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean meats low in saturated fat and cholesterol
- Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, to support optimal blood circulation
- Scheduling regular checkups to proactively monitor and promote overall health
- Quitting tobacco if you smoke
While some aneurysms are unpreventable, adopting these healthy habits may help minimize your risk. At Penn Medicine, your care team will discuss these prevention tools and symptoms for early detection to ensure you’re aware of your risks and options.