Abdominal aortic aneurysm

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Aortic aneurysm

Aortic rupture, chest X-ray

Aneurysm - aortic

Aneurysms develop slowly over many years and often have no symptoms. If an aneurysm expands rapidly, tears open (ruptured aneurysm), or blood leaks along the wall of the vessel (aortic dissection), symptoms may develop suddenly.

The symptoms of rupture include:

• Pulsating sensation in the abdomen
• Pain in the abdomen or back -- severe, sudden, persistent, or constant. The pain may radiate to groin, buttocks, or legs.
• Abdominal rigidity
• Anxiety
• Nausea and vomiting
• Clammy skin
• Rapid heart rate when rising to a standing position
• Shock
• Abdominal mass

Your doctor will examine your abdomen. The exam also will include an evaluation of pulses and sensation in your legs.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm may be diagnosed with these tests:

• Abdominal ultrasound
• CT scan of abdomen
• Angiography of aorta

Review Date: 12/07/2006
Reviewed By: Janet L. Albright, MD, General & Vascular Associates, Reno, NV. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.