For: Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a weakened and bulging area in the lower part of the aorta, which is the major blood vessel that supplies blood from the heart into the body. The aorta, which is about the thickness of a common garden hose, runs from your heart through the center of your chest and abdomen. Because the aorta is the body's main supplier of blood, a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause life-threatening bleeding immediately. Although you may never have symptoms, finding out you have an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be frightening, although if detected early enough, treatments are available.
Most small and slow-growing abdominal aortic aneurysms don't rupture, but large, fast-growing abdominal aortic aneurysms may. Depending on the size and rate at which the aortic aneurysm is growing, treatment may vary from watchful waiting to emergency surgery. The abdominal aortic aneurysm test is very beneficial as most aortic aneurysms occur in the part of your aorta that's in your abdomen.
What are the Warning Signs of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms?
Unfortunately, none. If rupture occurs; the possibility of death is about 80-95%. Once an aneurysm reaches 5-6 cm in diameter the risk of rupture is extremely high and typically requires surgery immediately, unless other medical factors make surgery a potential risk.
Although there are no warning signs of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, there are some factors you can use to determine if one has occurred. They included:
How do I know if I’m At Risk?
Risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysm are:
Prevention:
As with most heart and circulatory system problems, your risk of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm lessens with a healthy lifestyle. Some of the key factors in maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle are:
If you have any of the above risk factors, then get screened today!