Understanding an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, we are committed to providing all patients with high-quality, personalized healthcare for all their vascular and cardiovascular-related conditions, including abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and innovative procedures address the full spectrum of your diagnosis to provide effective treatment for the best interest of long-term health. 

If you or a loved one is living with an abdominal aortic aneurysm, have experienced one in the past, or are simply curious about available treatment options, we are here to help.

Let’s discuss abdominal aortic aneurysms in further detail, including precisely what it is, the symptoms associated with the condition, and effective treatment options fit for you.

What Is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement of the part of the aorta that runs through the abdomen. The aorta spans from the heart to the abdomen and delivers blood from the heart to the rest of the body. As the largest blood vessel in the body, it is susceptible to bulging or ballooning, indicative of an aneurysm.

Causes and Symptoms of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

The direct cause of abdominal aortic aneurysms is unknown, but atherosclerosis (a hardening of the blood vessels), high blood pressure, trauma, blood vessel diseases, or an infection in the aorta can all be possible factors. 

Symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm include:

• Deep, sustained pain near the front or side of the abdomen
• A pulsing sensation near the belly button
• Back pain

Risk factors for developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm include:

• Tobacco use (a history of smoking accounts for about 75% of AAA)
• Family history
• Gender, age, and ethnicity (abdominal aortic aneurysms are more common in white men over 65)
• A previous aneurysm

Comprehensive Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment

Depending on the size, severity, and risk, treatment options can range from watchful waiting to emergency surgery. Some abdominal aortic aneurysms appear slowly over time, pose minimal risk of rupturing, and require only careful monitoring.

Others, however, need immediate intervention, such as through open abdominal or endovascular surgery, to remove the bulge and repair the aortic walls. Aneurysms increase the risk of blood clots in the area, and a tear or rupture in the aortic wall can cause dangerous internal bleeding.

The doctors at CardioVascular Health Clinic are experienced in diagnosing and treating abdominal aortic aneurysms and other conditions. They use only the latest in cutting-edge technology to accurately identify your unique situation and develop an appropriate course of action for treatment.

If you are worried you or someone you love may be experiencing an abdominal aortic aneurysm, call CardioVascular Health Clinic today at (405) 701-9880 or schedule an appointment online.