What You Need to Know About Aneurysms

Aneurysms are a serious but treatable condition. Knowing the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and prevention of complications.

To begin with, it's important to know that an aneurysm is an abnormal dilation of an artery due to a weakening of the blood vessel wall. This weakening can cause the aneurysm to enlarge over time and, in some cases, rupture, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening internal bleeding.

These can occur anywhere in the body, but the most common are::

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Occurs in the part of the aorta that passes through the abdomen.
• Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: Develops in the part of the aorta that passes through the chest.
• Cerebral Aneurysm (or Intracranial Aneurysm): Forms in the blood vessels of the brain.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing an aneurysm. For example, if you have a close family member with this disease, you may be predisposed to it; if you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you are also prone to weakened arterial walls; if you have a habit of smoking, you should know that this directly damages the walls of blood vessels.

Many aneurysms do not present symptoms until they rupture. However, some can cause symptoms due to pressure on nearby structures. The signs vary depending on the location:

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Pain in the abdomen or back, a pulsating sensation near the navel.
• Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm: Pain in the chest or back, difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• Cerebral Aneurysm: Severe and sudden headaches, blurred vision, pain behind the eyes, difficulty speaking.

Once doctors diagnose the disease, treatment begins. This depends on the size, location, and risk of rupture of the aneurysm. This includes regular monitoring for small aneurysms; medications to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of aneurysm growth; or in the worst cases, surgery for large aneurysms or those at risk of rupture. Options include open repair and endovascular repair (less invasive).