What is an Aortic Aneurysm? Risk Factors and Contributing Habits

Bashar Obeidou, MD

The aorta is the main artery that carries blood from the heart through your chest and down toward your abdomen. An aortic aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning of a part of this artery. If the wall weakens too much, the aneurysm can rupture, causing life-threatening internal bleeding.

Because aneurysms typically develop slowly and silently, they can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Common risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• Genetic and connective tissue conditions
• Age and sex: Risk increases with age and men are more commonly affected.
• Atherosclerosis, or build up of plaque in the arteries
• Cholesterol
• Vascular disease

Aside from these predetermined risk factors, there are habits that can increase the risk of developing, or worsening, an aortic aneurysm:

• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol intake
• Extreme weightlifting
• Poor diet
• Chronic constipation or straining
• Overuse of specific antibiotics
• Abruptly stopping blood pressure medication
• Use of cocaine or other stimulant drugs

While you can’t change your age or genetics, many lifestyle choices do make a difference. By understanding your personal risk and making a few heart-healthy changes, you can significantly lower your chances of developing an aortic aneurysm.

If you have risk factors or family history, ask your provider about screening to check your aorta. Early detection can make a big difference. If diagnosed with an aneurysm, it’s crucial to closely monitor it with a vascular/cardiac specialist.