Tętniak aorty
Objawy

Tętniak aorty to patologiczne poszerzenie aorty, które często przebiega bezobjawowo, zwłaszcza w początkowych stadiach. Średni roczny wzrost tętniaków brzusznych o średnicy 30-55 mm wynosi 0,2-0,3 cm, przy czym większe tętniaki rosną szybciej. Ryzyko pęknięcia wzrasta wraz ze średnicą: dla tętniaków 5,0-6,0 cm wynosi 3-15%, 6,0-7,0 cm – 10-20%, 7,0-8,0 cm – 20-40%, a powyżej 8,0 cm – 30-50% rocznie. Pęknięcie tętniaka jest stanem zagrożenia życia, objawiającym się nagłym, silnym bólem, spadkiem ciśnienia, tachykardią, wstrząsem i wymaga natychmiastowej interwencji. Palenie tytoniu przyspiesza wzrost tętniaka o około 0,4 mm rocznie, co podkreśla konieczność rzucenia palenia u pacjentów z tą patologią.

Tętniak aorty – objawy

Tętniak aorty to nieprawidłowe poszerzenie głównej tętnicy organizmu, która przenosi krew z serca do pozostałych części ciała. W wielu przypadkach tętniaki aorty nie powodują żadnych objawów, zwłaszcza gdy są małe, co sprawia, że choroba ta jest często określana jako „cichy zabójca”12. Tętniaki są najczęściej wykrywane przypadkowo podczas badań wykonywanych z innych powodów lub w trakcie badania fizykalnego34.

Objawy nieuszkodzonego tętniaka aorty

Większość tętniaków aorty rozwija się powoli przez wiele lat. Szybkość wzrostu tętniaka jest trudna do przewidzenia – niektóre pozostają małe, inne powiększają się z czasem5. Objawy zależą od lokalizacji tętniaka i tego, czy urósł on wystarczająco, by wpływać na otaczające struktury6.

Gdy tętniak się powiększa, może powodować następujące objawy:

Objawy tętniaka aorty piersiowej
  • Ból w klatce piersiowej, plecach, szczęce lub szyi78
  • Trudności z oddychaniem lub duszność18
  • Trudności z przełykaniem lub ból podczas przełykania19
  • Kaszel lub chrypka109
  • Świszczący oddech11
  • Obrzęk ramion, szyi lub twarzy1
Objawy tętniaka aorty brzusznej
  • Głęboki, stały ból w brzuchu, dolnej części pleców lub boku, który może promieniować do pachwiny, pośladków lub nóg1213
  • Pulsujące uczucie w brzuchu, podobne do bicia serca, wyczuwalne w okolicy pępka1213
  • Uczucie pełności, nawet po niewielkim posiłku114
  • Zimna stopa lub bolesny, czarny lub siny palec u nogi12
  • Gorączka lub utrata wagi (jeśli tętniak został spowodowany infekcją lub zapaleniem)15

Rzadsze objawy, które mogą wystąpić w przypadku tętniaków aorty, obejmują:

  • Trudności z oddawaniem stolca16
  • Zawroty głowy podczas wstawania14
  • Dyskomfort układu moczowego lub obrzęk nóg17
  • Problemy z krążeniem w kończynach dolnych17
  • Kaszel z krwią, krwawienie z ust lub krwawe stolce17

Objawy pęknięcia tętniaka aorty

Pęknięcie tętniaka aorty to stan zagrażający życiu, wymagający natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej118. Objawy pęknięcia tętniaka pojawiają się nagle i mogą obejmować:

  • Nagły, silny ból w klatce piersiowej, brzuchu lub plecach, często opisywany jako rozdzierający lub rwący519
  • Spadek ciśnienia krwi1920
  • Przyspieszone bicie serca119
  • Zawroty głowy lub omdlenia1921
  • Mdłości lub wymioty1922
  • Zimna, lepka skóra1921
  • Trudności z oddychaniem121
  • Objawy wstrząsu1522

Jeśli u pacjenta wystąpią jakiekolwiek z tych objawów, konieczne jest natychmiastowe wezwanie pogotowia. Pęknięcie tętniaka aorty powoduje masywne krwawienie wewnętrzne, które może szybko prowadzić do śmierci23.

Rozwój i progresja tętniaka aorty

Tętniaki aorty zwykle rozwijają się powoli, przez wiele lat. Szybkość ich wzrostu może się różnić i jest trudna do przewidzenia u poszczególnych pacjentów5. Badania wskazują, że średni wzrost tętniaków aorty brzusznej o rozmiarach 30-55 mm wynosi 0,2-0,3 cm rocznie, przy czym większe tętniaki są związane z szybszym tempem wzrostu24.

Ryzyko pęknięcia tętniaka wzrasta wraz z jego średnicą24. Dla tętniaków o średnicy:

  • 5,0-6,0 cm: ryzyko pęknięcia w ciągu roku wynosi 3-15%25
  • 6,0-7,0 cm: ryzyko pęknięcia w ciągu roku wynosi 10-20%25
  • 7,0-8,0 cm: ryzyko pęknięcia w ciągu roku wynosi 20-40%25
  • Powyżej 8,0 cm: ryzyko pęknięcia w ciągu roku wynosi 30-50%25

Tętniak aorty brzusznej o średnicy 5-6 cm ma 10-20% skumulowane ryzyko pęknięcia rocznie, a tętniak o średnicy powyżej 9 cm ma ponad 50% skumulowane ryzyko pęknięcia rocznie26.

Czynniki ryzyka i powikłania

Tętniaki aorty mogą prowadzić do poważnych powikłań, jeśli nie są leczone. Najpoważniejszym powikłaniem jest pęknięcie, które powoduje 150 000-200 000 zgonów rocznie na całym świecie19. Śmiertelność w przypadku pękniętego tętniaka aorty brzusznej wynosi około 80%27. Większość pacjentów umiera, zanim dotrze do szpitala24.

Palenie tytoniu jest związane z tętniakiem aorty brzusznej i aktualnie palący mają szybszy wzrost tętniaka niż osoby, które przestały palić, o około 0,4 mm rocznie25. Osoby palące tytoń powinny jak najszybciej rzucić palenie, ponieważ wykazano, że tętniaki rosną szybciej u palaczy niż u osób niepalących21.

Inne możliwe powikłania tętniaków aorty obejmują:

  • Rozwarstwienie aorty – stan, w którym powstaje rozdarcie w wewnętrznej warstwie ściany aorty, powodujące przedostawanie się krwi między warstwami ściany tętnicy1828
  • Zakrzepica – tworzenie się skrzepów krwi, które mogą się odrywać i przemieszczać do mniejszych tętnic, gdzie mogą zmniejszać lub blokować przepływ krwi do ważnych narządów9
  • Ucisk na sąsiednie struktury – duże tętniaki mogą uciskać na pobliskie narządy, powodując różne objawy9

Monitorowanie i postępowanie

Ze względu na to, że tętniaki aorty często nie powodują żadnych objawów, regularne monitorowanie jest kluczowe dla pacjentów, u których zdiagnozowano tętniak29. W przypadku małych tętniaków (3,0-4,4 cm) lub średnich tętniaków (4,5-5,4 cm), zwykle zaleca się regularne badania obrazowe w celu kontrolowania ich rozmiaru21.

Leczenie tętniaka aorty zależy od jego rozmiaru, lokalizacji i objawów. Jeśli tętniak jest mały (mniejszy niż 4 cm średnicy), może nie być potrzebne żadne leczenie, ale zaleca się regularne kontrole (co 6 miesięcy do roku) i badania USG w celu monitorowania, czy tętniak się powiększa30.

Pacjenci z tętniakiem aorty brzusznej o średnicy 5,5 cm lub większej (lub 5,0 cm lub większej u kobiet) są zwykle kierowani do chirurga naczyniowego, który może zalecić operację2125. Jeśli tętniak rośnie szybciej niż o 0,4 cala rocznie, operacja może być najlepszą opcją30.

Tętniaki aorty wstępującej i łuku aorty zwykle wymagają natychmiastowej operacji31. Jeśli tętniak nie pękł, chirurg naczyniowy może zalecić operację lub wszczepienie stentu, aby zmniejszyć ryzyko pęknięcia31.

Kiedy szukać pomocy medycznej

Pęknięty tętniak aorty wymaga natychmiastowej interwencji medycznej. Należy natychmiast wezwać pogotowie, jeśli u pacjenta wystąpią jakiekolwiek z następujących objawów15:

  • Nagły, silny ból w klatce piersiowej, brzuchu lub plecach
  • Trudności z oddychaniem
  • Zawroty głowy, omdlenia lub utrata przytomności
  • Przyspieszony puls
  • Zimna, lepka skóra

Nawet jeśli objawy nie są nagłe, ale pacjent podejrzewa tętniaka aorty na podstawie innych objawów, powinien jak najszybciej skonsultować się z lekarzem32. Wczesne wykrycie i leczenie tętniaka może znacznie poprawić długoterminowe wyniki i zmniejszyć ryzyko powikłań33.

Tętniaki aorty, które nie zostały zdiagnozowane i leczone, mogą prowadzić do powikłań zagrażających życiu. Nie należy czekać, aż będzie za późno. Jeśli wystąpią wymienione powyżej objawy, należy natychmiast szukać pomocy medycznej32.

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 16.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16742-aorta-aortic-aneurysm
    In many cases, people dont know they have an aortic aneurysm. An aneurysm often doesnt cause any symptoms until it ruptures (bursts). […] If an aneurysm ruptures, its a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Call 911 if you or someone you are with has a ruptured aneurysm. […] Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm come on suddenly and can include: Dizziness or lightheadedness. Rapid heart rate. Sudden, severe chest pain, abdominal pain or back pain. […] Finding an aortic aneurysm before it ruptures offers your best chance of recovery. As an aortic aneurysm grows, you might notice symptoms including: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Feeling full even after a small meal. Pain wherever the aneurysm is growing (could be in your neck, back, chest or abdomen). Painful or difficult swallowing. Swelling of your arms, neck or face.
  • #2 Aortic Aneurysms: What To Know About ‘Silent Killer’
    https://www.bayfronthealth.com/content-hub/aortic-aneurysms-what-to-know-about-silent-killer/
    An aortic aneurysm is a silent killer that can threaten your life with little or no warning. […] Symptoms tend to be mild and unnoticeable, but can include: Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, Feeling full without eating much, Pain at the site of the aneurysm, Difficulty swallowing, Swelling of the arms, neck or face. […] Only when the aneurysm bursts is it obvious that there is a problem. At that point, it is a medical emergency that demands immediate treatment. A rupture can cause such intense pain in your back or abdomen that you may pass out. It could also cause a complete collapse of blood pressure, which would also cause you to pass out.
  • #3 Clinical features and diagnosis of abdominal aortic aneurysm – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/clinical-features-and-diagnosis-of-abdominal-aortic-aneurysm
    Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), which is an abnormal focal dilation of the abdominal aorta, is relatively common and has the potential for significant morbidity and mortality. Most patients with AAA are asymptomatic but come to medical attention by findings of a pulsatile mass on physical examination, as the result of other abdominal imaging studies, or through ultrasound screening programs for AAA. When symptoms do occur, patients commonly present with abdominal, back, or flank pain, but thromboembolism can also occur, leading to symptoms of limb ischemia. Aneurysms that produce symptoms are at an increased risk for rupture, which is associated with high mortality rates. […] A diagnosis of AAA generally requires imaging confirmation that an aneurysm is present, which is most often accomplished using abdominal ultrasound. However, in symptomatic patients, computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen provides additional information that can determine if the aneurysm has ruptured, is expanding rapidly, and, for those without signs of rupture, whether symptoms are likely to be related to the aneurysm or due to other abdominal pathology.
  • #4 Symptoms of Aortic Aneurysm | Northwestern Medicine
    https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/heart-and-vascular/conditions-and-treatments/aortic-aneurysm/symptoms
    Aortic aneurysms often grow slowly over time. Most people with aortic aneurysms do not have symptoms. Because of this, most aneurysms are found when a clinician performs a screening, physical exam or imaging studies (such as X-rays) for unrelated conditions. […] If you do have symptoms, you may experience any of the following: Pulsating mass in your abdomen, similar to a heartbeat; Back or abdominal pain; Discoloration of toes (rare). […] Symptoms of a ruptured AAA include: Sudden, severe pain in your abdomen, lower back, or scrotum; Dizziness; Fainting; Drop in blood pressure; Rapid heart rate; Sweaty, clammy skin; Shortness of breath; Nausea or vomiting (if the aneurysm is caused by inflammation or infection). […] If someone develops symptoms, this could mean their aneurysm is rapidly growing and may rupture or has already ruptured. This is a life-threatening emergency, and you should call 911.
  • #5 Thoracic aortic aneurysm – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thoracic-aortic-aneurysm/symptoms-causes/syc-20350188
    A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a weakened area in the upper part of the body’s main artery, called the aorta. […] Thoracic aortic aneurysms often grow slowly. There are usually no symptoms. That makes them hard to find. Many start small and stay small. Others get bigger over time. How quickly a thoracic aortic aneurysm may grow is hard to predict. […] As a thoracic aortic aneurysm grows, symptoms may include: Back pain. Cough. Weak, scratchy voice. Shortness of breath. Tenderness or pain in the chest. […] Symptoms that a thoracic aortic aneurysm has ruptured or caused a tear called an aortic dissection include: Sharp, sudden pain in the upper back that spreads down the body. Pain in the chest, jaw, neck or arms. Trouble breathing. Low blood pressure. Loss of consciousness. Shortness of breath. Trouble swallowing. […] Most people with thoracic aortic aneurysms don’t have symptoms until an aortic dissection or rupture occurs. An aortic dissection or aneurysm rupture is a medical emergency. […] Some aneurysms may never rupture or lead to dissection.
  • #6 Aortic Aneurysm – Symptoms | NHLBI, NIH
    https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/aortic-aneurysm/symptoms
    An aortic aneurysm may not cause any symptoms. The types of symptoms you have will depend on the location of the aneurysm and whether it has become large enough to affect other parts of your body. If you do have symptoms of an aortic aneurysm, they may include: […] If you know you have an aortic aneurysm, it is important to know the symptoms of a rupture, or tear in the aorta, since quick treatment may save your life. Symptoms of a rupture may include:
  • #7 About Aortic Aneurysm | Heart Disease | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/aortic-aneurysm.html
    An aortic aneurysm is a dangerous balloon-like bulge in the aorta, the large artery that carries blood from the heart through the chest and torso. […] A thoracic aortic aneurysm happens in the chest. […] Signs and symptoms of thoracic aortic aneurysm can include the following: Sharp, sudden pain in the chest or upper back. Shortness of breath. Trouble breathing or swallowing. […] An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens below the chest. […] Abdominal aortic aneurysms often don’t have any symptoms. If an individual does have symptoms, they can include the following: Throbbing or deep pain in the back or side. Pain in the buttocks, groin, or legs.
  • #8 Ascending Aortic Aneurysm | Frankel Cardiovascular Center | Michigan Medicine
    https://www.umcvc.org/conditions-treatments/ascending-aortic-aneurysm-0
    Ascending aortic aneurysms often have no symptoms. Some possible aneurysm symptoms are: Dull chest pain, Chest pain during exercise, Shortness of breath. […] Symptoms of a dissected or ruptured ascending aortic aneurysm include: Sharp chest pain, sometimes also felt in the back, Extreme shortness of breath, Trouble swallowing, Fainting/loss of consciousness. […] If left untreated, an ascending aortic aneurysm can continue to grow, potentially leading to serious and life-threatening complications such as rupture, dissection, and compression of nearby structures.
  • #9 Aortic Aneurysm > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
    https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/aortic-aneurysm-diagnosis
    Symptoms include chest or abdominal pain, cough, shortness of breath. […] Most aortic aneurysms do not cause any symptoms prior to rupture. In some cases, however, they can cause the following symptoms: […] Symptoms of unruptured TAAs may include: chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, hoarseness, wheezing, difficulty or painful swallowing, coughing up blood. […] Symptoms of unruptured AAAs may include: abdominal pain, feeling pulsations in the abdomen, low back pain, pain in groin, legs, buttocks, or scrotum, blood in urine. […] When aortic aneurysms rupture, they can cause the following symptoms: severe pain in chest, abdomen, back, hips, or sides, low blood pressure, shock. […] A ruptured aortic aneurysm is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
  • #9 Aortic Aneurysm > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
    https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/aortic-aneurysm-diagnosis
    Small aneurysms may not cause any noticeable problems. But over time, aneurysms grow, and as they do so, they can rupture. When this happens, the aortic wall bursts open and blood flows out of the aorta and into surrounding tissues. […] Aortic aneurysms can also cause problems in other ways. Blood clots can form where the aorta’s walls bulge outward. They can then break away and travel to and get lodged in smaller arteries, where they can reduce or block blood flow to vital organs. Aortic aneurysms can also cause problems when they grow large enough that they press against nearby structures and tissues. […] Aortic aneurysms can also increase the risk for an aortic dissection, a condition in which a tear develops in the inner layer of the aorta’s wall. Blood then flows out of the tear, between the inner and middle layers of the wall, causing the layers to separate, or dissect, from one another. This reduces the amount of blood that flows though the aorta to other tissues. It also causes the aorta to bulge outward, increasing the risk of rupture.
  • #10
    https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/heart-vascular/conditions/aortic-aneurysm
    With a thoracic aortic aneurysm, you may have: Sharp, sudden pain in your back, chest, jaw or neck, unexplained coughing or hoarseness, difficulty breathing or feeling faint. […] If the aortic aneurysm bursts, you need immediate, emergency care. Signs of a rupture include: Sudden, severe chest pain, loss of consciousness or shock.
  • #11 Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/diseases-of-the-aorta-and-its-branches/thoracic-aortic-aneurysms
    Thoracic aortic aneurysms may not cause symptoms, or they may cause pain, coughing, and wheezing. […] Typical symptoms are pain (usually high in the back), coughing, and wheezing. Rarely, a person coughs up blood because of pressure on or erosion of the windpipe (trachea) or nearby airways. Swallowing may be difficult if an aneurysm puts pressure on the esophagus, which carries food to the stomach. Hoarseness may result from pressure on the nerve to the voice box (larynx). […] When a thoracic aortic aneurysm ruptures, excruciating pain usually begins high in the back. It may radiate down the back and into the abdomen as the rupture progresses. The pain may also be felt in the chest and arms, as it is during a heart attack. A person can quickly go into shock and die because of internal bleeding.
  • #12 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Symptoms | Stanford Health Care
    https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/blood-heart-circulation/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm/symptoms.html
    Most people with abdominal aortic aneurysms don’t have symptoms. But symptoms may occur if the aneurysm gets bigger and puts pressure on surrounding organs. […] The most common symptom is general belly pain or discomfort, which may come and go or be constant. […] Other symptoms may include: Pain in the chest, belly (abdomen), lower back, or flank (over the kidneys). It may spread to the groin, buttocks, or legs. The pain may be deep, aching, gnawing, or throbbing, and it may last for hours or days. It is generally not affected by movement. But certain positions may be more comfortable than others. […] A pulsating feeling in the belly. […] A „cold foot” or a black or blue painful toe. This can happen if an aneurysm produces a blood clot that breaks off and blocks blood flow to the legs or feet.
  • #13 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7153-abdominal-aortic-aneurysm
    An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a bulge in the part of your aorta that runs through your belly. It usually causes no symptoms, but some people have deep pain in their lower backs or a pulsing sensation in their bellies. […] The larger an aneurysm grows, the more likely it is to burst open (rupture) and cause life-threatening internal bleeding. AAAs usually have no symptoms until they rupture or are close to rupturing. […] An AAA rupture is a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have sudden, severe pain in your belly or lower back. Symptoms may also include shortness of breath, dizziness and nausea. […] Most people with an AAA dont have symptoms until the aneurysm is close to rupturing. At that point, you may have: Steady, deep pain in your lower back or belly. Pain in your leg, groin or pelvic area. A pulsing sensation in your belly that feels like a heartbeat.
  • #14 Symptoms of an Aortic Aneurysm in Silicon Valley
    https://www.cvvcenters.com/blog/the-top-10-symptoms-of-an-aortic-aneurysm/
    Aneurysms can sometimes affect blood pressure, which can result in orthostatic hypotension. This is a condition in which people feel dizzy when they sit up from lying down or when they stand from sitting. […] Feeling full, even after minimal food intake, is a rare symptom of an aortic aneurysm. The feeling of fullness may be accompanied by nausea and even vomiting.
  • #15 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Symptoms | Stanford Health Care
    https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/blood-heart-circulation/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm/symptoms.html
    Fever or weight loss, if the aneurysm was caused by infection or inflammation (inflammatory aortic aneurysm). […] If an aortic aneurysm bursts, or ruptures, it causes: Sudden, severe pain. […] An extreme drop in blood pressure. […] Signs of shock. […] Without immediate treatment, it can quickly lead to death.
  • #16 Symptoms of an Aortic Aneurysm in Silicon Valley
    https://www.cvvcenters.com/blog/the-top-10-symptoms-of-an-aortic-aneurysm/
    If the aneurysm alters the flow of blood substantially, it can affect circulation and this can result in blue, cold feet and legs. An aneurysm can also be a place for blood clots to form, which can dislodge and affect cause pain, coldness, and even tissue death in the legs. […] Because the aorta runs very close to the esophagus (tube connecting the mouth and stomach), aneurysms can sometimes put pressure on the esophagus. This can make swallowing difficult. People often report having food stuck in their throat. […] In rare cases, an aneurysm can become inflamed and cause systemic problems including fever and weight loss. Inflammatory aneurysms can affect other organs like kidneys and the bladder as well. […] Some people with aneurysms report trouble with bowel movements. This may be due to changes in blood supply to the GI tract or as a result of an aneurysm putting pressure on nerves that supply the gut.
  • #17 Symptoms and signs of Aortic Aneurysms
    https://www.clinicbarcelona.org/en/assistance/diseases/aortic-aneurysm/symptoms-and-signs
    Most instances of aortic aneurysm are asymptomatic, which means that their appearance and growth do not cause the patient any discomfort. […] Although uncommon, people with aortic aneurysms sometimes notice pain, usually in the lumbar region (in the case of abdominal aortic aneurysms) or between the shoulder blades (in thoracic aortic aneurysms). […] The most common clinical sign is palpation of the actual aneurysm in the form of a pulsating mass near the navel. […] Chronic cough and difficulty or discomfort when breathing or swallowing. […] Hoarseness or loss of voice. […] Abdominal discomfort, vomiting, early satiety (fullness). […] Urinary discomfort or swelling in the legs. […] Circulatory problems in the lower limbs. […] Coughing up blood, bleeding from the mouth or bloody faeces (very dark stools). […] Slow, progressive weight loss, fever or low-grade fever.
  • #18 Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16742-aorta-aortic-aneurysm
    If an aortic aneurysm ruptures, it causes internal bleeding. Depending on the location of the aneurysm, a rupture can be very dangerous even life-threatening. With immediate treatment, many people can recover from a ruptured aneurysm. […] A growing aortic aneurysm can also lead to a tear (aortic dissection) in your artery wall. A dissection allows blood to leak in between the walls of your artery. This causes a narrowing of your artery. The narrowed artery reduces or blocks blood flow from your heart to other areas. The pressure of blood building up in your artery walls can also cause the aneurysm to rupture.
  • #19 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7153-abdominal-aortic-aneurysm
    A ruptured AAA is a medical emergency. Symptoms begin suddenly and can include: Severe pain in your belly, lower back or legs. Shortness of breath. Fast heartbeat. Low blood pressure. Dizziness or fainting. Nausea or vomiting. Clammy, sweaty skin. […] The most common complication is an aneurysm rupture, which causes 150,000 to 200,000 deaths each year around the world. AAA rupture leads to potentially fatal internal bleeding. Your risk goes up the larger an aneurysm grows.
  • #20 Quick Facts:Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/quick-facts-heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/aneurysms-and-aortic-dissection/abdominal-aortic-aneurysms
    Aneurysms may cause a pulsing feeling in your belly […] Symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm may include: A pulsing feeling in your belly […] Strong pain in your back even though you didn’t hurt yourself […] If your aneurysm bursts, symptoms include: Terrible pain in your lower belly and back […] Tenderness in the area over the aneurysm […] A sudden, dangerous drop in your blood pressure (shock) […] If your aneurysm bursts and you don’t get treatment, it’s fatal. […] If your aneurysm bursts or is about to burst, emergency surgery to fix it may save your life. An abdominal aortic aneurysm that bursts is fatal without surgery.
  • #21 Abdominal aortic aneurysm | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/a-to-z/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm/
    If your aortic aneurysm ruptures, you will feel a sudden and severe pain in the middle or side of your abdomen. […] Other symptoms include: dizziness, sweaty and clammy skin, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), shortness of breath, feeling faint, loss of consciousness. […] A ruptured aortic aneurysm is a medical emergency, and it’s important to get to hospital as soon as possible. […] If you are diagnosed with an AAA that is 5.5cm or larger, you will be referred to a vascular surgeon, who may recommend an operation. […] If you have a small (3.0-4.4cm) or medium (4.5-5.4cm) aneurysm, you will be offered regular scans to check its size. […] If you smoke, the most important change you can make is to quit. Aneurysms have been shown to grow faster in smokers than in non-smokers.
  • #22 Abdominal aortic aneurysm: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000162.htm
    Aneurysms can develop slowly over many years, often with no symptoms. Symptoms may come on quickly if the aneurysm expands rapidly, tears open or leaks blood within the wall of the vessel (aortic dissection). […] Symptoms of rupture include: Pain in the abdomen or back. The pain may be severe, sudden, persistent, or constant. It may spread to the groin, buttocks, or legs. Passing out. Clammy skin. Dizziness. Nausea and vomiting. Rapid heart rate. Shock. […] The larger the aneurysm, the more likely it is to break open or tear. This can be life threatening. […] When an abdominal aortic aneurysm begins to tear or ruptures, it is a medical emergency. Only about 1 in 5 people survive a ruptured abdominal aneurysm.
  • #23 Aortic Aneurysm and Aortic Dissection | BIDMC of Boston
    https://www.bidmc.org/conditions-and-treatments/heart-and-vascular/aortic-aneurysm-and-aortic-dissection
    Thoracic aortic aneurysms occur in the chest portion of the aorta and may not cause symptoms until it grows exceptionally large, ruptures or dissects. In these cases, symptoms may include: Pain in the jaw, neck, back or chest, Coughing and hoarseness, Shortness of breath, Trouble breathing or swallowing. […] If a TAA ruptures or dissects, sudden, severe, sharp or stabbing pain that starts in the upper back and moves into the abdomen may be felt. Pain may also be felt in the chest and arms. […] An aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that develops when there is a split in one or more layers of the aortic artery wall, which can be caused by a ruptured aneurysm. […] Internal bleeding from a ruptured AAA or TAA is a life-threatening condition in which blood pressure drops so low that the brain, kidneys and other vital organs can’t get enough blood to work well. If you have any symptoms of ruptured AAA or TAA, or aortic dissection, call 911.
  • #24 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Symptoms and Treatment | Doctor
    https://patient.info/doctor/abdominal-aortic-aneurysms
    Ruptured AAA may present with: Pain in the abdomen, back or loin – the pain may be sudden and severe. […] The degree of shock varies according to the site of rupture and whether it is contained – eg, rupture into the peritoneal cavity is usually dramatic, with death before reaching hospital; whereas rupture into the retroperitoneal space may be contained initially by a temporary seal forming. […] The risk of rupture is mainly determined by aneurysm diameter. […] The average growth rate of AAAs of sizes 30 mm to 55 mm ranges 0.2-0.3 cm/year. Larger AAAs are associated with higher AAA growth rates. […] Without surgery, the annual survival rate is only 20% for aneurysms larger than 5 cm. […] The outcome is poor, with approximately 80% overall mortality from ruptured AAA. […] Most patients die before reaching hospital. Surgical repair of ruptured AAA has a mortality of around 50%.
  • #25 Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2022/0800/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm.html
    Patients with a ruptured aneurysm typically present with sudden onset of severe abdominal pain, back pain, severe hypotension, lower extremity weakness, loss of pulses on bilateral lower extremities, and a pulsatile abdominal mass. Ruptured aneurysms can also present with Grey Turner sign, which is ecchymosis or discoloration on the flanks, and Cullen sign, which is periumbilical ecchymosis. […] The size of the diameter is crucial in determining the risk of rupture. Aneurysms 5.0 cm to 6.0 cm in diameter have a 3% to 15% risk of rupture within one year; those 6.0 cm to 7.0 cm have a 10% to 20% risk, those 7.0 cm to 8.0 cm have a 20% to 40% risk, and aneurysms larger than 8.0 cm have a 30% to 50% risk of rupture within one year. […] The goal of medical management is to prevent AAA rupture and avoid invasive treatment by preventing aneurysm enlargement or reducing aneurysm size. Medical management is appropriate for asymptomatic patients and smaller aneurysms. Studies suggest that smoking has been associated with AAA, and self-reported current smokers have a faster growth rate than former smokers, approximately 0.4 mm per year. […] Surgical management is indicated when the aneurysm diameter is 5.5 cm or larger for men and 5.0 cm or larger for women.
  • #26 Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms and Treatments
    https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/health-plus/article/aortic-aneurysms
    Aortic aneurysms can be silent killers. Learn about its signs and how to treat it. […] In its early stages, when an aortic aneurysm is small in size (5cm diameter), the risk of spontaneous rupture is small. However, it should be monitored by a vascular surgeon. […] If the aneurysm continues to grow (5cm diameter), the walls of the aorta can become thinned out and lose their ability to stretch, and become unable to support the force of blood flow. The aneurysm could burst, causing serious internal bleeding and death. […] As the aneurysm increases in diameter, the risk of rupture also increases. For example, a 5-6 cm diameter aneurysm has a 10-20% cumulative risk of rupture per year and one that is more than 9 cm has more than 50% cumulative risk of rupture per year. The mortality risk from a ruptured aneurysm is as high as 50-80%.
  • #27 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/Abdominal-Aortic-Aneurysm-(AAA)-Causes-Symptoms-Management.aspx
    Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms are possible among patients with severe fall in blood pressure. The bursting of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is associated with: Sharp, severe pain in the stomach, lower back or loin, A severe loss of blood pressure, which may cause intense sweating, shock, collapse and black out. […] The risk of rupture of the abdominal aortic aneurysm increases with size, wherein aneurysms larger than 6 cm have a 25% annual risk of rupture. […] Following the rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the risk of death is approximately 80%. Most patients die before reaching the hospital. In most patients, the outcome is poor and surgical repair is only successful in 50% of cases with a ruptured aneurysm.
  • #28 What is an Aortic Aneurysm? Here are Symptoms, Risks and Treatments – The New York Times
    https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/14/well/live/aortic-aneurysm.html
    Aortic aneurysms are rare, doctors said, but more common than people may think. Between 1 to 2 percent of the U.S. population is prone to developing them, said Dr. Eric Roselli, a cardiovascular surgeon at the Cleveland Clinic. […] Two main issues can arise from an aortic aneurysm: a hole can form in the dilated aorta, letting blood burst into the body, or the blood that is pumping vigorously through the artery can tear the inner layers of the aorta. The tear in the layers of the aorta is known as a dissection and, when blood builds up and continues to tear the artery wall, it can lead to death. […] Many people with an enlarged aorta will not experience these complications, said Dr. Pirruccello. The risk of a dissection or a rupture increases as the aorta enlarges, he added. […] But the average patient walking around with an aortic aneurysm in the chest will not have any symptoms. Dr. Johnston noted that some people may feel chest tightness or have a cough. Others may have a slight heart murmur, he added.
  • #29 Aortic Aneurysm – Women’s Health – Associates for Women’s Medicine – Syracuse NY Gynecologist, Gynecology, Obstetrics, OBGYN, OB Physicians, Syracuse New York, Fayetteville, North Syracuse, LiverpoolAortic Aneurysm
    https://www.afwomensmed.com/health-library/hw-view.php?DOCHWID=hw57497
    Most aortic aneurysms don’t cause symptoms. But symptoms may occur if the aneurysm gets bigger. […] The most common symptoms include belly, chest, or back pain that may spread to the groin, buttocks, or legs. The pain may be deep, aching, or throbbing. If the aneurysm bursts, or ruptures, it causes sudden, severe pain. […] Symptoms may include: Pain in the chest, belly, or lower back, which may spread to the groin, buttocks, or legs. The pain may be deep, aching, or throbbing. […] If an aortic aneurysm bursts, or ruptures, it causes sudden, severe pain, an extreme drop in blood pressure, and signs of shock. Without immediate treatment, it can quickly lead to death. […] If you have an aortic aneurysm, you will see your doctor regularly to check on the size of the aneurysm. The size of the aneurysm and how fast it is growing both help determine how and when to treat it.
  • #30 Managing Your Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm – Symptoms & Treatment | Carle.org
    https://carle.org/conditions/heart-and-vascular-conditions/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm
    Abdominal aortic aneurysms often dont produce symptoms. When present, symptoms usually include pain in the middle of the abdomen (belly) or back. […] If an aneurysm is suspected, the health care provider will order abdominal ultrasound (sonogram) and computed tomography (CT). […] Treatment depends on aneurysm size and risk of rupture. If the aneurysm is small (less than 4 cm [1.5 inches] in diameter), no treatment may be needed, but regular check-ups (every 6 months to 1 year) and sonograms are advised to monitor if the aneurysm is becoming larger. […] If the aneurysm is growing more than 0.4 inch per year, surgery may be the best option.
  • #31 Ascending Aortic & Arch Aneurysm Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
    https://www.upmc.com/services/heart-vascular/conditions/ascending-aortic-arch-aneurysm
    Most people with ascending aortic and aortic arch aneurysms do not have any symptoms. Some may experience: […] Dull, vague chest pain. […] Shortness of breath. […] Hoarseness. […] Dry cough. […] Aortic aneurysms can cause life-threatening bleeding if they rupture. If you experience symptoms of an aortic rupture, you should dial 911. […] Your prognosis with ascending aortic or aortic arch aneurysm depends on the size and extent of your aneurysm. Aortic aneurysm rupture, for example, is a serious, life-threatening condition with a low survival rate. However, if your aneurysm has not ruptured, your doctor may be able to provide surgical treatment that reduces the risk of aortic rupture. […] Aneurysms in the ascending aorta and aortic arch usually require immediate surgery. If the aneurysm has not ruptured, your vascular surgeon may recommend surgery or implanting a stent to help reduce the chance of rupture. […] Surgical treatment for aortic aneurysms can reduce the chances of a life-threatening aortic rupture. However, you may need to take precautions such as avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity to further reduce your risk.
  • #32 WATCH OUT! 5 Warning Signs and Symptoms That Might Indicate “Aortic Aneurysm” | Bangkok Heart Hospital
    https://www.bangkokhospital.com/en/bangkok-heart/content/watch-out-5-warning-signs-and-symptoms-that-might-indicate-aortic-aneurysm
    An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal enlargement or bulging of the wall of the aorta which is a major blood vessel that carries blood from heart to body. Aortic aneurysms include: […] If a ruptured aortic aneurysm could not be accurately diagnosed and effectively treated in time, it can cause life-threatening internal bleeding which leads to the increased chances of sudden death. Therefore, the notification of warning signs and symptoms of aortic aneurysm remains essentially important. […] 5 warning signs and symptoms that aortic aneurysm might be suspected include: […] More importantly, disease severity depends on the size of the aneurysm and its growth rate. Abdominal aortic aneurysms sometimes grow slowly without noticeable symptoms, therefore some patients might not have clinical manifestations. In case that it is an asymptomatic aortic aneurysm, the abnormal findings could be accurately examined by radiological imaging tests such as an chest X-ray, abdominal aortic ultrasound and CT scan (computerized tomography) combined with abdominal examination and palpation performed by the expert cardiologists. If an aortic aneurysm is ignored and left untreated, complications are often fatal. Do not wait until it is too late. If the signs and symptoms mentioned above are presented, medical attention must be sought immediately.
  • #33 Understanding Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm | Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
    https://www.hey.nhs.uk/patient-leaflet/understanding-thoracic-aortic-aneurysm/
    Thoracic aortic aneurysms often have no symptoms, but they may cause pain in the jaw, neck, chest, or back. Rarely, an aneurysm may cause a persistent cough, hoarseness, or difficulty breathing. […] Over time, the weakened area may expand further and eventually rupture, leading to a life-threatening condition known as aortic dissection. […] Diagnosis of a thoracic aortic aneurysm is vital, especially if there is a family history of the condition, so that we can aim to prevent aortic dissection. […] Early detection and treatment of an aneurysm through screening can significantly improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.