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What is an aneurysm?
According to Dr Ravikanth, Senior Cardiologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad, an aneurysm is a localized and abnormal dilation or ballooning of a blood vessel’s wall. It occurs when the wall weakens and loses its elasticity, resulting in the formation of a bulge or sac-like structure. They can develop in various parts of the body, including the brain, aorta (the body’s main artery), and other blood vessels.
Aneurysms can result from various causes. “This includes weakened blood vessel walls due to chronic conditions like atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, and certain connective tissue disorders. Trauma, whether from physical injuries or medical procedures, can also contribute to aneurysm development. In rare instances, infections and inflammation within blood vessels can lead to weakening and the subsequent formation of an aneurysm,” said Dr Ravikanth.
They often remain symptomless until rupture or substantial expansion. “Symptoms vary based on size, location, and growth rate, encompassing severe, unexplained headaches; discomfort in affected regions (example, chest, abdomen); dizziness; nauseous; vision changes; speech difficulties; and facial, arm, or leg weakness or numbness,” the expert added.
Is it fatal?
The severity of an aneurysm depends on its location, size and whether it ruptures.
“A ruptured aneurysm can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding, requiring immediate medical attention. If not treated promptly, a ruptured aneurysm can be fatal. However, not all aneurysms rupture, and smaller, stable aneurysms may be discovered incidentally during medical imaging tests without causing any harm,” said Dr Ravikanth.
As for treatment, he said that it depends on factors like size, location and patient’s health. “Small, stable aneurysms can be monitored through imaging tests while making lifestyle changes to control blood pressure and avoid risky activities. Large, rapidly growing, or symptomatic aneurysms may require intervention. Surgical repair involves removing or repairing the weakened blood vessel section with synthetic grafts. Endovascular treatments like coiling or stent placement use minimally invasive techniques to promote clotting and prevent rupture by inserting metal coils or stents into the aneurysm,” the doctor concluded.
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