Aortic aneurysms can be detected before they cause symptoms

        Many people have heard of the aorta, which is the main and largest blood vessel in the human body. It carries blood away from the heart to supply blood to the brain, muscles and other cells. What you may not know is that when an area on the wall of the aorta is weakened or bulging, an aortic aneurysm has developed.
        Over time, the aortic aneurysm can rupture or tear. This can cause blood to escape the vessel and be pumped into the body. Sometimes, instead of a tear, the vessel will dissect allowing blood to split the layers of the artery wall, causing a tear to occur in the future or decreased blood flow to important organs.
        Many people with aortic aneurysms do not know they have the condition until a rupture or dissection has occurred and symptoms become present. Because of this, it is important to know your personal risk factors to catch the condition early. Once symptoms occur, usually described as an intense pain in the chest, stomach or back that feels like ripping or tearing, it is crucial to call 911 as ruptures and dissections can cause life-threatening bleeding.
        According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a history of smoking accounts for about 75% of all abdominal aortic aneurysms. For men aged 65-75 who have smoked at any point in their life, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends an ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms, even if no symptoms have been present. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, poor diet, lack of exercise, inflamed arteries, bodily trauma and certain genetic conditions such as Marfan syndrome.
        Aortic aneurysms can be detected and managed before they cause any symptoms. Depending on the level of severity, medications and surgery can be used to help manage the condition. It is important to speak with your doctor about risk factors and see if screening is right for you.