Aneurysms carry a high mortality rate. What makes aneurysms so dangerous is how they often form without causing noticeable symptoms. You might feel completely fine until one ruptures, causing life-threatening bleeding in seconds. That’s why it’s crucial for those at risk to know the types, the warning signs, and when to get help.
At Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, Dr. Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, brings years of experience in endovascular intervention to patients in Hudson and Brooksville, Florida. Our team specializes in heart, vein, and vascular care with a mission to detect and treat vascular disease before it turns into a crisis.
Read on to learn more about the different types of aneurysms and what they mean for your health.
Aneurysms can happen to anyone, but some individuals are at higher risk due to lifestyle, genetics, or existing health conditions.
Aneurysms become more common as we age, especially after 65. This is particularly true for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).
Men are more likely to develop aortic aneurysms, though women face a higher risk of rupture if they do get one.
Smoking is one of the strongest risk factors. Smoking weakens artery walls and significantly increases the chance of developing an aneurysm and of an aneurysm rupturing.
Uncontrolled hypertension puts extra pressure on blood vessels, which can lead to weakening and bulging of the arterial walls.
If a close family member has had an aneurysm, your risk is higher. This is especially important if their aneurysm occurred at a younger age.
Hardening of the arteries makes blood vessels less flexible and more prone to damage, increasing aneurysm risk.
High cholesterol can contribute to artery damage, making aneurysms more likely.
If you fall into any of these categories, regular vascular screenings may help catch problems early before they become life-threatening. Now, here’s a look at the different types of aneurysms.
The aorta is the body's biggest artery, delivering oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. An aortic aneurysm occurs when part of the aorta weakens and bulges. This is the most common type of aneurysm.
There are two main types:
Occurs in the lower part of the aorta, in the abdomen. These are often symptomless until one ruptures.
Forms in the chest area and may cause back pain, coughing, or shortness of breath.
Both types can grow slowly and silently, making regular screening especially important for those over 65, smokers, or anyone with a family history of aneurysms.
Cerebral aneurysms develop in the arteries of the brain. A ruptured brain aneurysm can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke, which is a medical emergency.
Symptoms of a possible rupture include:
Some brain aneurysms are discovered by accident during imaging tests. If caught early, they can often be treated before they rupture.
These occur in arteries outside the heart and brain, often in the legs, groin, or neck. Popliteal aneurysms (behind the knee) and femoral aneurysms (in the thigh) are common types. They may not rupture like aortic aneurysms, but they can still interrupt blood flow or cause clots.
Symptoms can include swelling, pain, or a pulsing sensation near the affected area.
Because aneurysms rarely cause symptoms, routine vascular evaluations are key, especially if you have risk factors like high blood pressure, a history of smoking, or a family member who has had an aneurysm.
Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates uses advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to detect and treat aneurysms. Dr. Chadda has extensive experience treating complex cases with exceptional results.
To learn more and to schedule a vascular screening, contact us today by calling or messaging one of our offices and take control of your health.
