Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms, Screening, Monitoring, and Treatment
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement of the abdominal portion of the aorta, the body’s largest artery. Many AAAs cause no symptoms and are found through screening or imaging done for another reason.
Why AAA matters
An aneurysm can enlarge over time. If it ruptures, severe internal bleeding can occur and the situation can become life-threatening very quickly.
Risk factors
Important risk factors include older age, smoking, male sex, family history, atherosclerotic disease and certain cardiovascular risk factors. Smoking is one of the strongest modifiable risk factors.
Symptoms
Most AAAs are asymptomatic. Symptoms can include persistent abdominal or back pain or a pulsating feeling in the abdomen.
Sudden severe abdominal or back pain, fainting, weakness, or signs of shock require emergency medical care because they may indicate rupture.
Screening
Ultrasound is commonly used for AAA screening. Screening recommendations depend on age, sex, smoking history, family history and other vascular risk factors rather than applying to everyone.
Diagnosis and monitoring
Ultrasound can measure the diameter of the abdominal aorta and monitor an aneurysm over time. CT or MRI may be used when more detail about size, shape or location is needed.
Treatment
Management depends on aneurysm size, growth rate, symptoms, anatomy and the person’s overall health. Smaller aneurysms may be monitored with repeat imaging and risk-factor management. Repair may be recommended when rupture risk becomes high.
Repair options include:
- Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), using a stent graft placed through the blood vessels
- Open surgical repair
The choice depends on anatomy, surgical risk and other clinical factors.
Reducing risk
Stopping smoking and managing blood pressure, cholesterol and other cardiovascular risk factors are important. Lifestyle changes can support vascular health, but they cannot shrink an established aneurysm or replace imaging follow-up.
Editorial sources
This article provides general education and does not replace vascular or cardiovascular medical care.
