What Is an Aneurysm?
An aneurysm (AN-u-rism) is a balloon-like bulge in
an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from your
heart to your body.
Arteries have thick walls to withstand normal blood
pressure. However, certain medical problems, genetic conditions, and trauma can
damage or injure artery walls. The force of blood pushing against the weakened
or injured walls can cause an aneurysm.
An aneurysm can grow large and burst (rupture) or
cause a dissection. Rupture causes dangerous bleeding inside the body. A
dissection is a split in one or more layers of the artery wall. The split
causes bleeding into and along the layers of the artery wall.
Both conditions are often fatal.
Overview
Most aneurysms occur in the aortathe main
artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta
goes through the chest and abdomen.
An aneurysm that occurs in the part of the aorta
that's in the chest is called a thoracic (tho-RAS-ik) aortic aneurysm. An
aneurysm that occurs in the part of the aorta that's in the abdomen is called
an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Aneurysms also can occur in other arteries, but
these types of aneurysm are less common. This article will focus on aortic
aneurysms.
About 14,000 Americans die each year from aortic
aneurysms. Most of the deaths result from rupture or dissection.
Early diagnosis and medical treatment can help
prevent many cases of rupture and dissection. However, aneurysms can develop
and become large before causing any symptoms. Thus, people who are at high risk
for aneurysms can benefit from early, routine screening.
Outlook
When found in time, aortic aneurysms often can be
successfully treated with medicines or surgery. Medicines may be given to lower
blood pressure, relax blood vessels, and reduce the risk of rupture.
Large aortic aneurysms often can be repaired with
surgery. During surgery, the weak or damaged portion of the aorta is replaced
or reinforced.
April 2009 |