The aorta, the largest artery in the body, is a critical lifeline that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Yet, when this vital vessel weakens and balloons outward, it forms an aortic aneurysm, a condition that can silently grow until it becomes life-threatening. Alarmingly, aortic aneurysms were responsible for nearly 10,000 deaths in the United States in 2019 alone. Let’s dive into what you need to know about this condition, its risks, and how to protect yourself.

What Is an Aortic Aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm occurs when the wall of the aorta weakens, causing it to bulge abnormally. Think of it as a balloon under pressure—if the wall stretches too thin, it risks bursting. This rupture can lead to catastrophic internal bleeding or even death.

Types of Aortic Aneurysms

There are two main types:

• Thoracic aortic aneurysm: Occurs in the chest area and may cause symptoms like sharp chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty swallowing.
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Found below the chest and more common than thoracic aneurysms. Symptoms include throbbing pain in the back or side and discomfort in the buttocks or legs.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact causes of aortic aneurysm are often unknown, but several factors contribute to its development:

• Smoking: The leading behavioral risk factor for abdominal aortic aneurysms.
• High blood pressure: Puts extra strain on artery walls.
• Atherosclerosis: Plaque buildup weakens arteries over time.
• Genetics: Conditions like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome increase vulnerability.

Age and Gender: Men over 60 are at higher risk for abdominal aneurysms.