A thoracic aneurysm can feel like a pulsing or throbbing sensation in the chest and typically does not cause pain. Other possible symptoms include a feeling of fullness in the chest, difficulty breathing, chest pain that is continuous and location-specific, coughing, sharp pains that are sudden and sharp, as well as pressure sensation.
Depending on the location of the aneurysm, additional symptoms may include pain in the stomach, upper backache, shortness of breath and other flu-like symptoms. If the aneurysm is causing chest pain, it is important to seek medical attention immediately, as the aneurysm may be in danger of rupturing and require emergency surgery.
If the aneurysm has already ruptured, symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, rapid breathing and decreased consciousness can occur. It is important to remember that any chest pain should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.
How do you know if you have a thoracic aortic aneurysm?
Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) are usually diagnosed after testing to rule out other conditions, such as heart or lung diseases. To diagnose TAAs, doctors may perform a variety of tests, including imaging tests such as a chest X-ray, ultrasound, echocardiogram, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Depending on the size and location of the TAA, the doctor may also order other tests, such as a stress test or angiography. During a stress test, an ultrasound monitor is used to measure how well the heart is pumping blood.
Angiography involves injecting a contrast dye into the heart’s arteries and then taking X-ray images to locate bleeding or blockage. Other tests, such as a duplex ultrasound, may be used to determine the size and shape of the aneurysm.
In some cases, the doctor may use a minimally invasive procedure to remove a sample of the aneurysm so that a pathologist can examine it under a microscope.
Are there any warning signs of an aortic aneurysm?
Yes, there are warning signs of an aortic aneurysm that may indicate that medical attention is needed. These warning signs include: abdominal or chest pain; a pulsating sensation near the belly button; feeling lightheaded or dizzy; a rapid heart rate; fatigue; swollen legs; shortness of breath; and a feeling of pressure in the belly or chest.
Other symptoms that may indicate an aortic aneurysm include a “tearing” or “ripping” sensation near the upper abdomen or back, a sudden, sharp pain or a bump in the abdomen in the area of the aorta, and tenderness in the abdomen or back.
It is also important to note that some aortic aneurysms may not cause any signs or symptoms until they are very large or have started to rupture. If you experience any of the signs or symptoms listed above, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Do thoracic aneurysms go away?
No, thoracic aneurysms do not typically go away on their own and usually require treatment. A thoracic aortic aneurysm is typically caused by an underlying medical condition such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, or a congenital defect, and treatment is typically necessary to successfully repair and manage the condition.
Depending on the size and location of the aneurysm, treatment may include medications, such as anticoagulants, lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors, and if necessary, surgery such as a thoracic endovascular aortic repair or an open surgery.
Where does your back hurt with an aortic aneurysm?
Aortic aneurysms often cause pain in the abdominal area and in the back, usually below the ribs or between the shoulder blades. Aortic aneurysm symptoms will vary depending on the size of the aneurysm, the location, and if it has begun to rupture.
Generally, aortic aneurysms can cause pain in the abdomen and/or back, a pulsing mass in the abdomen, and/or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen. The back pain caused by an aortic aneurysm can range from mild to severe and is often worse with movement.
It is important to speak with your doctor if you experience any unexplained, sudden, or severe back pain as it may be a sign of an aortic aneurysm.
Can you feel an aneurysm in your back?
No, it is not possible to feel an aneurysm in your back. Aneurysms usually occur in the aorta and other blood vessels in the abdomen and chest. The aorta is the biggest artery in the body and it runs up the front of the spine.
An aneurysm in the aorta can press on structures in the abdomen, like other veins and organs, which in rare cases can cause back pain. However, many aneurysms do not cause any symptoms and often go undetected until an ultrasound, CT or MRI scan picks up the aneurysm.
If you suspect you may have a back problem due to a possible aneurysm, it is important to speak to your doctor for advice.
Can an aortic aneurysm cause lower back pain?
It is possible that an aortic aneurysm could cause lower back pain or pain in the abdominal area. While this is possible, it is not the most common symptom associated with aortic aneurysms. The most common symptom associated with an aortic aneurysm is a pulsating feeling or pain in the abdomen, chest, or lower back.
If a person does experience pain in these areas that is persistent or worsening, it is important to discuss this with a doctor, as it could be an indication of a serious problem such as an aortic aneurysm.
If the pain is accompanied by other signs and symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fever, chills, or dizziness, then it could be a sign of aortic aneurysm and requires prompt medical attention.
Can a blocked aorta cause back pain?
Yes, a blocked aorta can cause back pain. When the aorta becomes blocked, either due to a buildup of plaque or a clot, it hinders the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the rest of the body. If the blockage is located in the upper portion of the aorta, pressure can build up in the lower region of the aorta and cause back pain.
This pain can range from mild to severe and often presents as a dull, aching feeling in the lower back region. Additionally, if the aortic blockage is severe enough, it can cause a condition known as mesenteric ischemia, in which the lower intestines do not receive adequate blood flow.
This condition can cause intense abdominal pain that can radiate to the back. Therefore, if you are experiencing persistent back pain, it is important to seek medical attention in order to determine the underlying cause.
Where is aneurysm pain located?
Aneurysm pain is typically located around the area of the aneurysm. It is usually in the form of a steady, throbbing pain, although it can also be a sharp, stabbing sensation. Depending on the size and location of the aneurysm, the pain could be felt anywhere in the head, neck, or chest.
If the aneurysm is in the abdomen, the pain may be experienced in the stomach, back, groin area, or side of the abdomen. In some cases, it may also radiate to other areas, such as the legs or arms. If the aneurysm is very large, it can cause swelling and noticeable bulge in the area, which may be accompanied by intense pain.
If you experience any pain that you suspect could be related to an aneurysm, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What can be mistaken for aortic aneurysm?
Aortic aneurysm is a serious condition that occurs when the wall of the aorta, the major blood vessel that carries blood from your heart to other parts of your body, weakens and bulges outward. It can often be mistaken for other medical issues.
Some conditions that can be mistaken for aortic aneurysm include muscle strain or spasm, hernia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and even a heart attack. Other conditions, such as pancreatitis, chronic bronchitis, and costochondritis, can also present symptoms that can look similar to aortic aneurysm.
In extreme cases, an aortic dissection (a tear in the inner layer of the aortic wall) can be mistaken for an aneurysm.
If you experience any symptoms associated with aortic aneurysm, such as stomach or chest pain, shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, or a sharp stabbing pain, you should contact your doctor immediately.
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis as soon as possible in order to properly treat the condition and avoid serious complications.
What are the symptoms before an aneurysm?
Aneurysms can be difficult to identify before they rupture. Often, the only sign of an aneurysm is a feeling of pressure or a throbbing pulse in the affected area, although not all people experience these symptoms.
Other symptoms that may occur before an aneurysm ruptures include:
• Pain behind the eyes, especially in the temples
• Headaches
• Double vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neck stiffness
• Loss of balance
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Dizziness
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
It is important to note that some of these symptoms can also be associated with other medical conditions, so one should consult a doctor or medical professional if they suspect they may have an aneurysm.
How big does a thoracic aneurysm get before it bursts?
The size at which a thoracic aneurysm will burst is difficult to predict and can vary from person to person. Typically, an aneurysm must reach a size of at least 5 cm in diameter before it is considered at risk for rupturing.
However, aneurysms smaller than 5 cm can still rupture, so aneurysms of any size should be monitored closely. Additionally, certain aneurysm shapes and characteristics may also increase an aneurysm’s risk of rupture.
For these reasons, it is important for patients with thoracic aneurysms to be monitored regularly with imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, so that their aneurysm can be closely monitored and any potentially concerning changes can be detected.
How do you stop an aortic aneurysm from growing?
There are a variety of treatments for an aortic aneurysm depending on its size and location, and whether it is causing symptoms. Some measures to prevent the aneurysm from continuing to grow include:
1. Medication: Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation in the aortic wall and reduce the risk of rupture.
2. Surgery: Depending on the size of the aneurysm and its location, surgery to repair or replace the aneurysm may be necessary.
3. Endovascular Repair: A minimally invasive procedure during which a catheter is used to repair the aneurysm from within.
4. Open Surgery: May be necessary for more complex aneurysms and involves a larger incision.
5. Cardiac Catheterization: A procedure to identify the exact extent of the aneurysm and to measure the blood pressure within it, which can help determine whether the aneurysm needs repair.
In some cases, a combination of these methods may be used to stop the aneurysm from growing and prevent rupture. Additionally, lifestyle modifications—such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress levels—as well as regular checkups with a doctor can also help prevent an aortic aneurysm from continuing to grow.
How long can you have an aortic aneurysm before it ruptures?
The length of time an aortic aneurysm can exist before it ruptures is dependent on a variety of factors, such as: size, location and how quickly it is growing. An aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of a section of the aorta, which is the largest artery in your body.
As an aneurysm grows, the walls of the artery become weakened and are more susceptible to tearing, or rupturing.
Most aneurysms grow slowly over time and can often exist for many years before they become large enough to cause symptoms or rupture. Aneurysms that are larger than 5 centimeters (cm) are usually considered to be at greater risk for rupture.
Some aneurysms can exist for decades with no signs of rupture, while other aneurysms can rupture in a matter of hours after they reach the critical size.
It’s important to have an aneurysm evaluated and watched closely by a physician if they become aware of it. If you have an aneurysm, you should have periodic imaging tests done (such as MRI and CT scans) to observe its growth and determine if any further action is necessary.
Ruptured aneurysms require immediate medical treatment as they can cause life-threatening complications, such as severe internal bleeding and stroke.