LV Dysfunction/Sudden Cardiac Death

Carotid Artery Disease/Stroke

AAA

PAD

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a large bulge in the aorta,  the main artery that leads away from the heart and pumps blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. Much like any aneurysm, AAA can be very dangerous if left untreated or undetected because the artery can rupture at any given time. Unfortunately, less than 50% of patients survive a ruptured Aortic Aneurysm. Early detection is critical to preventing an aneurysm from rupturing.

Even though there is not a definite answer to why AAA exists, many researchers believe that the aorta can begin to bulge if the wall of the artery starts to collect plaque buildup (called atherosclerosis). This collection of plaque in turn weakens the inner walls and makes them start to expand to allow the blood to flow more easily. If this bulge is left untreated or undetected, the pressure of the blood flow through the artery expands the wall to a point of release, causing an immediate rupture.

Early detection of AAA is the key to preventing the artery from rupturing. Rarely does an individual have any symptoms, unless the individual’s aneurysm is already to the point of rupturing. Luckily, through ultrasound technology, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms can be detected and treated before any major problems occur.

Warning Signs

Unfortunately, often times there are no warning signs that an individual has AAA because aneurysms develop so slowly. However, symptoms can develop rapidly if a tear, rupture, or quick expansion happens. When this happens the symptoms can include:

1. Sharp abdominal and back pain, which may spread throughout the body
2. Profuse sweating
3. Dizziness and vomiting
4. Shock
5. Rapid heart rate
6. Abdominal mass

Risk Factors

Individuals who are at risk for abdominal aortic aneurysms are individuals who are or have a history of:

• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Diabetes
• Smokers
• Overweight
• Inactivity
• Aging
• High cholesterol levels
• Gender (males are more likely to have AAA)
• Family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm

Call 1-866-523-LIFE (5433) to get more information on Healthy Life Screening.