Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Definition

An aneurysm is defined as a dilation or thinning of the wall of an artery or other blood vessel. There are several different types of aneurysms (including aortic, intracranial, abdominal and thoracic), most of which are commonly found in individuals between 60 and 90 years of age, most of the cases being male. Most of them are located below the kidney level, though why this occurs is not fully understood by medical doctors. In many cases, the aneurysm bursts, which can cause rapid internal bleeding that leads to shock and death. An early diagnosis may lead to treatments that may prolong life (nearly one-third of individuals die of ruptured aneurysms).

Symptoms

• Many individuals later diagnosed with an abdominal aneurysm often complain of being able to literally feel their heart beating in the abdominal area when they lie down. Others can feel a mass or lump in the middle of the abdominal area, along the line of the aorta. The bulge will often be felt below the level of the kidneys, often in the area between the bottom of the sternum and the bottom of the bellybutton area. Other individuals may experience a phenomena known as blue toes, which is caused by lack of blood flow due to a thrombosis (blood clot). Some people experience abdominal cramping and pain in the abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Individuals should know that severe back pain or abdominal pain that literally causes one to double over is a classic sign of an impending rupture. For a great number of individuals, no symptoms present.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of an abdominal aneurysm is determined through a variety of methods, including chest radiographs, angiograms and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) technologies. CT (computerized tomography) scans can often pinpoint the location of the aneurysm as well as its size and length. Doctors may also be able to manually palpate or feel the mass in the middle or upper portion of the abdomen.

Management

• When detected early, management of an abdominal aneurysm may be possible through several methods, such as strict maintenance of blood pressure and the use of anti hypertensive drugs. In other cases, an abdominal aneurysm may be operated upon if it is larger than 2 inches in diameter.

Causes

• Conditions that cause an artery wall to thin or weaken may lead to an aneurysm. In some cases, this weakening may be caused by a buildup of cholesterol. Deposits of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels weaken them. Other factors may involve genetics or heredity. Unfortunately, the exact causes of aneurysms, no matter where they are located, is currently unknown. Development of aneurysms may also be linked to hypertension.

Prevention/Solution

• The best prevention against aneurysms is to maintain a healthy blood pressure and healthy cholesterol levels. Low fat diets are recommended for optimal benefits, and smoking is discouraged.