An abdominal aortic aneurysm 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 the bulging, ballooning, or blood pooling indicative of an 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:
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 very little risk of rupturing, and require only careful monitoring.
Others, however, require 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. 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.
