Definition
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when the abdominal aorta, an essential blood vessel that supplies blood to the legs, weakens and a balloon-like dilation develops. If the dilation continues to grow it is at risk of rupturing.
Symptoms
- Most commonly patients experience no symptoms
- Sudden severe pain in abdomen or back
- * Seek immediate medical care
Risk Factors
- Family history
- Smoking history
- Increasing age
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Connective tissue disorders
Treatment Options
- Regular follow up
- Blood pressure and cholesterol control
- Smoking cessation
- Regular exercise
- Surgery: minimally invasive options with stent graft (endovascular repair) or open surgery
