What is a Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

The aorta is the main large blood vessel that carries blood away from our heart all the way down our body before it branches out to our legs. It is large, but usually less than 3cm wide.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm, also known as AAA is an enlargement of the abdominal aorta such that the diameter is greater than 3 cm or more than 50% larger than normal.

What causes a Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

Aneurysms are caused by the blood vessel wall getting weaker over time. It usually takes many years for a AAA to develop and grow.

Risk factors include:

  • Males are much more likely than females.

  • Smoking.

  • High blood pressure.

  • Family history

What are the symptoms of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

Abdominal aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and most people have no symptoms at all. They are usually painless and found accidentally. Many start small and stay small, others grow larger over time, sometimes quickly.

If you have a growing abdominal aortic aneurysm, you might notice:

  • Deep, constant pain in the belly area or side of the belly.

  • Back pain.

  • A pulse near the bellybutton.

How is AAA tested?

The most common and easiest way to see if someone has a AAA is by a simple ultrasound. This is quick, easy, and painless.

Some people may require a CT scan.

Many people have already been screened for a AAA without knowing it. If you’ve ever had a CT scan or ultrasound of your abdomen in the past for any reason at all (i.e. belly pain, gallbladders, liver, appendix, etc.), they usually see your aorta and confirm if it was normal or not.