An estimated one million + people are living with undiagnosed abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), according to the Society of Vascular Surgery. At least 95% of those with this condition can be successfully treated if detected prior to rupture.
Should you be concerned?
You may be at risk for AAA if:
- You are over 60-years-old or older, particularly if you are male
- You have a history of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- You have a family history of AAA
- You are a smoker
- You suffer from High blood pressure
- You suffer from Chronic lung disease
As the body’s largest artery, the Aorta carries blood rich in oxygen from the heart to all of the body's vital organs, as well as the legs and feet. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms occur when the aorta's wall gradually weakens and begins to expand. An AAA may continue to grow - eventually rupturing if left untreated, which can cause severe bleeding internally and possibly death
Are There Any Symptoms?
You should see a Vascular Specialist if you feel:
- A pulsing feeling in your abdomen
- Unexplained, severe pain in their abdomen or lower back
- Pain, discoloration, or sores on their feet (this is a rare symptom)
AAA Treatment
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm can be permanently cured when diagnosed early. But if left untreated the AAA can rupture. In most situations, the people with ruptured aortic aneurysms die before they reach a hospital. Talk to your doctor about your risks for AAA and whether you should be tested.
An estimated one million + people are living with undiagnosed abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), according to the Society of Vascular Surgery. At least 95% of those with this condition can be successfully treated if detected prior to rupture.
Should you be concerned?
You may be at risk for AAA if:
- You are over 60-years-old or older, particularly if you are male
- You have a history of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
- You have a family history of AAA
- You are a smoker
- You suffer from High blood pressure
- You suffer from Chronic lung disease
As the body’s largest artery, the Aorta carries blood rich in oxygen from the heart to all of the body's vital organs, as well as the legs and feet. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms occur when the aorta's wall gradually weakens and begins to expand. An AAA may continue to grow - eventually rupturing if left untreated, which can cause severe bleeding internally and possibly death
Are There Any Symptoms?
You should see a Vascular Specialist if you feel:
- A pulsing feeling in your abdomen
- Unexplained, severe pain in their abdomen or lower back
- Pain, discoloration, or sores on their feet (this is a rare symptom)
AAA Treatment
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm can be permanently cured when diagnosed early. But if left untreated the AAA can rupture. In most situations, the people with ruptured aortic aneurysms die before they reach a hospital. Talk to your doctor about your risks for AAA and whether you should be tested.