
Understanding Aneurysms: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
An aneurysm is a pathological dilation of a section of an artery or vein. Aneurysms can occur in any part of the circulatory system, but they most commonly occur in the aorta (the main artery in the body that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the organs) and the brain arteries.
There are several causes that can lead to the formation of an aneurysm, including:
- High blood pressure.
- Arterial sclerosis (a condition characterized by the deposition of fatty plaques on the walls of blood vessels).
- Injuries to blood vessels.
- Infections.
- Genetic defects in blood vessels.
The symptoms of an aneurysm depend on its location and size. In small aneurysms, there may be no symptoms. Over time and with an increase in the size of the aneurysm, the following symptoms may appear:
- Chest, abdominal, or back pain.
- Sensation of pulsation in the area of the aneurysm.
- Shortness of breath.
- Coughing.
- Wheezing in the chest.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Dizziness.
- Loss of consciousness.
Understanding vascular aneurysms and assessing their severity are important for ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment.