What is Aortic Aneurysm?
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Aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the aortic wall, the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood to the body. The aortic wall, which has thick walls that can withstand normal blood pressure, can weaken and expand due to genetic or acquired factors. As a result, the aorta continues to dilate due to increased blood pressure and other factors.
What are the Risk Factors of Aortic Aneurysm?
There are many congenital or acquired risk factors that may lead to aortic aneurysm. These factors can be listed as follows;
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk. Smoking accounts for approximately 75% of the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm.
- High age: People over the age of 65 are at increased risk of aneurysms.
- Gender: The risk of aortic aneurysm is higher in men than in women.
- Family history of the disease: If there is a family history of aortic aneurysm disease, the risk of aneurysm formation increases.
- Genetic factors: Genetic disorders can cause weakening of the aortic wall, leading to aortic aneurysm formation.
- Cholesterol: High cholesterol is also a risk factor and causes atherosclerosis, weakening the aortic vessel wall and contributing to aortic dilatation.
- Marfan syndrome and similar connective tissue disorders: Connective tissue disorders cause the artery walls to weaken. Thus, the risk of aortic aneurysm increases.
- Coronary artery disease: It is a sign of widespread atherosclerosis and these patients have a higher rate of aortic aneurysm development.
- Blood pressure High blood pressure increases the risk of aneurysm. Constant high pressure on the arteries can cause the aortic wall to weaken and lead to aortic aneurysm formation.
- Obesity: Overweight is a risk factor for patients whose body mass index is much higher than normal.
- Trauma or Injury: Trauma and injuries such as car accidents or falls that cause damage to the aortic wall can lead to aneurysm formation.
- Inflammation of the aortic wall is also a cause of aortic aneurysm and such aneurysms are called mycotic aneurysms.
It is important for patients with aortic aneurysm to quit smoking, pay attention to the use of medication under the control of their doctor, regularly exercise and do sports recommended by the doctor, limit alcohol intake, eat a heart-healthy diet and have an ideal weight.
It is extremely important that patients with the above-mentioned aortic aneurysm risk factors consult a Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist and have the necessary controls. Aortic aneurysm can lead to fatal consequences if left untreated.
