Aortic Disease

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement or bulging of the wall of the aorta. An aneurysm can occur anywhere in the vascular tree. The bulge or ballooning may be defined as a:

• Fusiform: Uniform in shape, appearing equally along an extended section and edges of the aorta.
• Saccular aneurysm: Small, lop-sided blister on one side of the aorta that forms in a weakened area of the aorta wall.

An aneurysm can develop anywhere along the aorta:

• Aneurysms that occur in the section of the aorta that runs through the abdomen (abdominal aorta) are called abdominal aortic aneurysms.
• Aortic aneurysms that occur in the chest area are called thoracic aortic aneurysms and can involve the aortic root, ascending aorta, aortic arch or descending aorta.
• Aneurysms that involve the aorta as it flows thru both the abdomen and chest are called thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms.
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Genetics and family history of aortic disease contribute significantly to the risk of developing an aortic aneurysm or dissection. In addition to genetic factors and age, people who experience the conditions below have an increased risk of aortic disease.

• High blood pressure – the increased force of blood can weaken the artery walls
• Marfan syndrome or other genetic conditions – can cause problems with the body’s ability to make healthy connective tissue
• High cholesterol or atherosclerosis – a buildup of plaque may increase inflammation in and around the aorta and other blood vessels
• Inflamed arteries: – the body’s blood vessels can become inflamed due to trauma from car accidents or certain diseases like vasculitis
• Smoking – people with a history of smoking are three to five times more likely to develop an aortic aneurysm

Symptoms of a thoracic aortic aneurysm (affecting upper part of aorta in chest):

• Pain in the jaw, neck, upper back or chest
• Coughing, hoarseness or difficulty breathing

Symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (affecting lower part of aorta in abdomen):

• Pulsating enlargement or tender mass felt by a physician when performing a physical examination
• Pain in the back, abdomen, or groin not relieved with position change or pain medication

Early diagnosis of an aneurysm is critical to managing the condition and reducing the risk of rupture. If you have these symptoms, contact us straight away for an appointment.