Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms Before Rupture

The body’s main supplier of blood, the aorta, runs from your heart through the center of your chest and abdomen. It’s about the thickness of a garden hose. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlarged area — often the result of a blood clot — in the lower part of the aorta. Should it rupture, an abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause life-threatening bleeding. 

How can you recognize abdominal aortic aneurysm symptoms?

These aneurysms can be difficult to detect, because they can grow slowly and without symptoms. Some aneurysms will never rupture. Many start small and even after expanding over time, remain small. Still, others expand quickly. These variations make predicting how fast an abdominal aortic aneurysm may enlarge extremely challenging.

As an abdominal aortic aneurysm enlarges, you may notice:

  • A pulsating feeling near the navel
  • Deep, constant pain in your abdomen or on the side of your abdomen
  • Back pain

If you have any of these signs and symptoms, such as sudden severe back or abdominal pain, get help immediately.

Are you at risk for an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

Certain lifestyle habits and health issues put you at a higher risk for this type of aneurysm. Stay especially alert to the signs of abdominal aortic aneurysm if you use tobacco, have high blood pressure or have been treated for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

Recognized excellence and innovative and compassionate vascular care is on your doorstep

We are proud to say that Baton Rouge Vascular Specialty Center is considered the “Doctors’ Choice” by referring primary care physicians. It means we are doing things right. It signifies that our dedication to personalized patient care and complete support from diagnosis through recovery is working. We are the largest vascular and endovascular surgical practice providing aortic aneurysm repair in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. No matter what type of vascular issue you may be facing, our team of vascular specialists is fully dedicated to restoring your health with the latest technologies.

To learn more or schedule an appointment with one of our vascular specialists, call (225) 769-4493 or click here to use our online form.