Aortic Aneurysm
Aortic aneurysm is a condition characterised by an abnormal ballooning or bulging of a section of the aorta due to weakness in the wall of the blood vessel. The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the different parts of the body. An aneurysm can develop anywhere along the course of the aorta;
- Aneurysms that occur in the section of the aorta that passes through the abdomen are called abdominal aneurysms.
- Aneurysms that occur in the part of the aorta that passes through the chest are called thoracic aortic aneurysms.
Most patients with aortic aneurysm do not have any symptoms. Usually, when the aneurysm enlarges it may cause chest or back pain, palpitations, fatigue, dizziness or shortness of breath.
