An aortic aneurysm is a bulging, weakened area in the wall of the aorta (the largest artery in the body), resulting in an abnormal widening or ballooning.

The aorta carries oxygenated blood from the heart downward through the chest and into the abdomen where it branches off the aorta to carry blood to vital organs and the rest of the body.

The most common location of an aneurysm is in the abdominal section of the aorta, specifically the area below the kidneys. However, aneurysms can also occur in the upper, chest area of the aorta.

The larger the aneurysm, the more potential there is for rupture of the aorta, which may cause life-threatening bleeding.

Aortic aneurysms may be caused by build up of plaque called atherosclerosis, a defect present at birth or an infection.

Most people with aortic aneurysms have no symptoms. Some have pain in abdomen, chest, lower back, or groin area. Most likely, the aneurysm is detected during a routine physical exam or tests being performed for other conditions.

Some of the risk factors that might indicate a need for screening include:

• Age of 65 or older
• Family history of aneurysms
• History of vascular disease (arteries and veins)
• Vascular disease risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
• History of cigarette smoking