What is an aneurysm? The causes, symptoms, treatments and prevention
All men over 65 are invited to screening sessions
An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel caused by a weakness in its wall - if detected early it can be treated with surgery or changes to lifestyle.
Bruce Forsyth's wife Lady Wilnelia Forsyth has spoken about his long recovery after two aneurysms were discovered surgically removed following a fall.
What is an aneurysm?
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a swelling of the main blood vessel that leads away from the heart.
Usually about 2cm wide the vessel can expand to more than 5.5cm, which doctors class as a large abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Abdominal aortic aneurysms do not normally pose a serious threat to health, but rare large aneurysms can be very serious.
If a large aneurysm ruptures it can cause huge internal bleeding and is usually fatal.
About eight in 10 people with a rupture will die before they reach hospital or not survive surgery.
What causes an aneurysm?
The bulging of the vessel occurs when the wall of the aorta weakens.
Doctors are not sure what causes this weakness but smoking, cholesterol and high blood pressure are thought to increase the risk of an aneurysm.
Aneurysms are most common in men over 65 and account for one in every 50 deaths in this group.
A family history of aortic aneurysms will put you at increased risk.
What are the symptoms?
In most cases there are no symptoms, however in rare cases the aneurysm can cause stomach pains or persistent back ache.
If you have these symptoms you should see a GP as soon as possible.
If an abdominal aortic aneurysm ruptures it will cause a sudden and severe pain in the abdomen.
other symptoms associated with a rupture are dizziness, sweaty or clammy skin, a rapid heartbeat, feeling faint and loss of consciousness.
If you suspect that you or someone else has a ruptured aneurysm, call 999 immediately and ask for an ambulance.
How can an aneurysm be treated?
If an aneurysm is detected before it ruptures most people will be advised to have treatment.
This will normally be surgery to replace the weakened section of the blood vessel with synthetic tubing.
If surgery is not advised there are other options that can reduce the risk of a rupture.
These include medication to lower blood pressure and cholesterol as well as quitting smoking.
What action can you take to prevent an aneurysm?
All men are invited for a screening test when they turn 65.
The test involves a simple ultrasound, which takes 10 to 15 minutes.
The best way to prevent an aneurysm is to avoid anything that could damage your blood vessels such as smoking, a high fat diet, not exercising regularly or being overweight.
Source: NHS Choices
