Understanding Aneurysm & Aortic Disease
What is an Aneurysm and Aortic Disease?
An aneurysm is a bulge or weak spot in the wall of a blood vessel. When it occurs in the aorta—the large artery that carries blood from the heart—it can become serious if not monitored or treated. Aneurysms may develop in the chest (thoracic aortic aneurysm) or abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysm).
If an aneurysm grows too large, it can rupture, which is a medical emergency. Aortic disease refers to any condition that affects the aorta, including aneurysms and blockages.
Many aneurysms grow slowly and don't cause symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Pain in the chest, back, or abdomen
- A pulsing feeling near the navel
- Shortness of breath or difficulty swallowing (in thoracic aneurysms)
- Hoarseness or cough that doesn't go away
If you’re at risk—due to age, smoking history, or family history—it’s important to be checked, even without symptoms.
Aneurysms and aortic disease are usually found through imaging tests. Your provider may recommend:
- Ultrasound (often for abdominal aneurysms)
- CT scan or MRI for a more detailed view
- Echocardiogram to assess the aorta near the heart
Treatment depends on the size and location of the aneurysm:
- Monitoring with regular imaging if the aneurysm is small
- Lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors like high blood pressure and smoking
- Medications to help control blood pressure and heart rate
- Minimally invasive surgery or open repair may be recommended if the aneurysm is large or growing
Schedule Your Appointment
If you’ve been diagnosed with an aneurysm or have a family history of aortic disease, early detection and follow-up care are important. Call (888) 310-7258 today to schedule a consultation with a provider at Biltmore Cardiology.