What is it?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement or swelling of the aorta, the largest blood vessel that runs from the heart down through the chest and abdomen.
What are the symptoms?
AAA usually have no or mild symptoms of abdominal pain unless they rupture. Symptoms usually appear once it rupture, it can present with one or more of the following symptoms:
- Sudden pain in the abdomen or back.
- Pain spreading from abdomen or back to pelvis, legs, or buttocks.
- Clammy or sweaty skin.
- Increased heart rate.
- Shock or loss of consciousness.
What to expect?
A healthy life style may help in slowing down the progression or reoccurrence of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. If you are diagnosed with an abdominal aortic aneurysm you can consider discussing the following subjects with your doctor after the initial treatment:
- Are there changes you can make in you diet to make it more healthy?
- Do you need to loose weight?
- If you smoke, can your doctor help you to stop smoking?
- Do you need to decrease your alcohol intake?