What lifestyle factors increase your risk of aneurysm?
Lifestyle factors that increase the risk of aneurysm:
- Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for aneurysm formation. The chemicals in cigarettes damage the blood vessel walls, making them more likely to weaken and bulge.
- High blood pressure (hypertension): High blood pressure puts extra stress on the blood vessel walls, which can lead to the formation of an aneurysm.
- High cholesterol: High cholesterol can build up in the arteries and cause them to narrow, which can increase the risk of an aneurysm.
- Diabetes: Diabetes can damage the blood vessels, making them more susceptible to aneurysms.
- Obesity: Obesity can increase the risk of aneurysm formation, especially in people who are also physically inactive.
- Family history: People with a family history of aneurysms are at an increased risk of developing one themselves.
- Age: The risk of aneurysms increases with age. Most aneurysms occur in people over 60.
- Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as connective tissue disorders, can increase the risk of aneurysm formation.
- Certain medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, can increase the risk of aneurysm formation.
- Alcohol abuse: Chronic alcohol abuse can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of aneurysms.
- Drug abuse: Drug abuse can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of aneurysms.