Aneurysm

An aneurysm is a bulge or swelling that forms in a weak area of a blood vessel - usually an artery. The weakened part of the wall cannot withstand the pressure of the blood pumping along the vessel, and so begins to bulge out. This typically occurs in the major artery that leaves the heart (the aorta), particularly when it reaches the abdomen (abdominal aortic aneurysms). However, aneurysms can also develop in the small blood vessels of the brain (cerebral aneurysms).

Although some aneurysms are the result of congenital weakness, the majority develop as the result of another disease, such as atherosclerosis. In general, those most at risk from aneurysms are white men over the age of 55, especially if they smoke and have high blood pressure. In fact, abdominal aortic aneurysms rate among the top ten causes of death in this group.

Aneurysms usually present very few symptoms; however, they pose an enormous risk if they burst; rupture of an aneurysm in the brain usually causes a stroke, whilst rupture of an aortic aneurism can cause vascular shock. Rupture of either type carries a high risk of death.

In this section, you'll find information on the different types and locations of aneurisms, along with details about their causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.