Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the aorta, the main blood vessel carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Imagine a balloon that's starting to swell in a weak spot. This bulge can happen anywhere along the aorta. It can be shaped like a tube or a rounded swelling.

Sometimes, the bulge can be in the part of the aorta that runs through the belly (abdominal aortic aneurysm) or the chest (thoracic aortic aneurysm). Some people can have aneurysms in both areas.

A weak spot in the aorta's wall makes it more likely that the lining of the aorta will tear. This tear is called an aortic dissection. Think of it like a rip in the balloon's skin. This tear can be dangerous because it can cause serious problems. The blood can leak out of the aorta, which can damage nearby organs and tissues.

Aortic aneurysms don't always cause symptoms. Sometimes, a person might not know they have one until it gets very large or causes a problem. That's why regular checkups, especially for people at risk, are important. Knowing if you have an aortic aneurysm can help you take steps to prevent a more serious problem like a tear or dissection.