Friday, 19 August 2011

Symptoms Of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and often without symptoms, making them difficult to detect. Some aneurysms will never rupture. Many start small and stay small, although many expand over time. Some aortic aneurysms enlarge slowly, increasing by less than half an inch (1.2 cm) per year. Others grow at a faster rate, increasing the risk of fracture. How long an aortic aneurysm can enlarge hard to predict.

As an aortic aneurysm grows, some people may notice:

A sensation near the navel button

Tenderness or pain in the abdomen or chest

Backache

When to see a doctor

You should consult your doctor if you have one of the above symptoms.

Anyone aged 60 and older who have risk factors for developing an aortic aneurysm should consider regular screening for the condition. Men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked cigarettes should have a one-time screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm in the abdominal ultrasound. Men 60 and older with a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm should also consider screening.

If you have a family history of aortic aneurysm, the doctor may recommend regular ultrasound scans to detect disease.

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