A ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm is the 13th most-common cause of death in the U.S. according to The Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Artery problems and abdominal pain are leading indicators of this condition.
Significance
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is the chief concern for an individual suffering from artery problems and abdominal pain. "AAA is caused by a weakened area in the main vessel that supplies blood from the heart to the rest of the body," according to The Society of Interventional Radiology. This diseased section of the aortic artery bulges like a balloon and is referred to as an aneurysm.
Function
The aorta is the body's main blood distribution channel beginning at the heart and moving through the chest, abdomen and legs. "Although an aneurysm can develop anywhere along your aorta, most occur in the section running through your abdomen," says The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.
Cause
Atherosclerosis, a disease that hardens and damages the arteries, is a prominent cause of AAA. This condition typically is brought on by high blood pressure, excessive cholesterol and smoking.
Warning
An extreme medical emergency occurs when an AAA ruptures. "Even with surgery, there is 50 to 70 percent mortality rate associated with a ruptured AAA," according to the University of Southern California's Center for Vascular Care.
Symptoms
Pain or tenderness in the stomach, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, a raspy voice, backache, or pain in the shoulder blades are common symptoms of an AAA.
Tags: abdominal aortic, abdominal aortic aneurysm, aortic aneurysm, problems abdominal, problems abdominal pain