![]() Once an aneurysm is diagnosed, strict control of the blood pressure and avoidance of smoking are two interventions which may prevent growth. Patients with known aortic aneurysms experiencing such symptoms need to contact their physician or surgeon immediately and go to the nearest emergency room. Dizziness, fainting, difficulty walking and speaking can all accompany this acute event. A ripping sensation within the chest accompanied by severe pain in the back between the shoulder blades is the most typical complaint during thoracic aortic dissection or rupture. However, rupture or dissection of these aneurysms produces dramatic symptoms. Most of the symptoms associated with stable thoracic aneurysms are vague and non-specific. Abdominal and back pain may also be present if the aneurysm increases in size. In contrast, abdominal aneurysms may cause a pulsating feeling in the abdomen. However, when large, these aneurysms can compress both the esophagus and the airway resulting in difficulty swallowing and hoarseness.ĭescending thoracic aneurysms are mostly asymptomatic, but can occasionally cause back pain. This can result in shortness of breath or even heart failure if the leakage is severe.Īortic arch aneurysms can produce upper chest and back pain. Ascending aortic aneurysms can cause dilatation and leakage of the aortic valve. When aortic aneurysms reach larger sizes, the symptoms are typically based on the location of the aneurysm. Close follow-up with an aneurysm specialist is recommended. However, dissections of the descending and abdominal aorta do weaken the wall of the aorta and are prone to aneurysm formation. Control of the blood pressure and adequate pain control typically results in healing of the injury. When a dissection involves the descending thoracic or abdominal aorta, emergency treatment is still required but this rarely includes surgery. When this occurs in the ascending aorta or aortic arch it represents a life threatening emergency which is typically treated with emergency surgery. The thoracic aorta is also prone to dissection, or a tearing of the wall of the aorta. For this reason, it is crucial to treat large aneurysms early, in order to prevent their rupture. Only about 20 to 30 percent of patients who get to the hospital with a ruptured thoracic aortic aneurysm survive. Fifty percent of patients who experience a rupture of a thoracic aortic aneurysm die before reaching the hospital. Aneurysms which involve the ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending thoracic aorta are termed “thoracic aortic aneurysms.” Aneurysms in these regions are prone to rupture once they reach a certain size. For additional information visit Linking to and Using Content from MedlinePlus.An aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of a weakened area of the aorta. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited without authorization. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. ![]() A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. ![]() This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy editorial process and privacy policy. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. is accredited by URAC, for Health Content Provider (URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. ![]()
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