Collaborative care for aortic aneurysms

When a blood vessel balloons, it can burst, or rupture. This is called an aneurysm and is caused by progressive weakening of the aortic wall. Aneurysms occur most often in the aorta, the main artery of the chest and abdomen that carries blood throughout the body. 

There are two types of aortic aneurysms. Abdominal aortic aneurysms, the most common type, occur in your abdomen. Thoracic aortic aneurysms, which are rare, occur in your chest. 

An aortic aneurysm is a serious condition because a ruptured aneurysm is life threatening.

Find the complete care you need at Goshen Heart & Vascular Center. Our fellowship trained surgeons, cardiologists and radiologists work together in one place to provide innovative care specifically for you. With leading-edge expertise, we are committed to caring for your aortic aneurysm.

These noninvasive, painless screenings check your body's circulatory system for signs of disease or impairment to blood flow. Your doctor can help you decide which screening is right for you and recommend next steps based on your results.

Diagnosing an aortic aneurysm

Aortic aneurysms are often caused by atherosclerosis, as well as high blood pressure, smoking, trauma and birth defects.

Signs of an aortic aneurysm include:

• Pain in the abdomen, lower back, chest, neck or jaw
• Sensation of feeling your heartbeat in your abdomen
• Coughing
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty breathing

However, most aortic aneurysms don’t show symptoms. If you do have symptoms, it may be a sign that the aneurysm is about to rupture. Call 911 for emergency care.

The latest treatments to prevent aneurysm rupture

The goal of aortic aneurysm treatment at Goshen Heart & Vascular Center is to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing. You may only need to monitor your aneurysm and control any risk factors, such as high blood pressure. Aortic aneurysms that are at risk for rupture may require surgery to repair the aneurysm. Ruptured aneurysms require emergency surgery.