Key Points

• An aneurysm is an abnormal bulge or "ballooning" in the wall of an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other parts of the body.
• An aneurysm that grows and becomes large enough can rupture, causing dangerous bleeding inside the body.
• Most aneurysms occur in the aorta. The aorta is the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
• Most aneurysms (3 out of 4) are found by chance when a diagnostic test, such as x ray or ultrasound, is performed for a different reason.
• Many cases of ruptured aneurysm can be prevented with early diagnosis and medical treatment.
• Because aneurysms can develop and become large before causing any symptoms, it is important to look for them in people who are at the highest risk. Ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms is recommended for men who have ever smoked and are between the ages of 65 and 75.
• Medicines and surgery are the two main treatments for aneurysms. Medicines may be prescribed before surgery or instead of surgery.
• To prevent an aneurysm and keep blood vessels healthy, quit smoking, eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, get regular physical activity, and control high blood pressure and high cholesterol.