Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
An aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body. The aorta runs from your heart through your chest and abdomen; an abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the aorta in the abdomen. A rupture of this enlargement can cause life-threatening bleeding. Symptoms include:
- Deep, constant pain in your abdomen or on the side of your abdomen
- Back pain
- A pulse near your belly button
Your doctor may monitor your aneurysm and help you manage risk factors that might worsen it, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. If your aneurysm is serious or worsening, your doctor may insert a graft into your artery to support the weakened area. The graft will be a woven tube with a mesh support, and it will be secured into place at the site of the aneurysm. This will support the artery walls and prevent the aneurysm from rupturing.