Heart Aneurysm

An aneurysm (or aneurism) is a localized, blood-filled dilation (balloon-like bulge) of a blood vessel caused by disease or weakening of the vessel wall. Aneurysms occur most often in the arteries at the base of the brain (the circle of Willis) and in the aorta (main artery from the heart), called an aortic aneurysm. The bulge in a blood vessel can burst and cause death at any time. The largest aneurysm becomes, the more likely to burst.

Aneurysms can also occur in arteries in the brain, heart and other body parts. If a brain aneurysm bursts, it causes a stroke. An aneurysm is a bulge or "bulge" in the wall of an artery. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other parts of the body. If an aneurysm large grows, it can burst and cause dangerous bleeding or even death.

Most aneurysms of the aorta occur. The aorta is the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. The aorta leaves the left ventricle (VEN-trih-KUL) of the heart and travels through the thorax and abdomen. An aneurysm that occurs in the aorta in the chest is called a thoracic aneurysm (tho-RAS-ik) aortic. An aneurysm that occurs in the aorta in the abdomen is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Causes of Aneurysm

Most brain aneurysms develop as a result of wear and tear on arteries that comes with aging. Aneurysms often form at forks or branches in arteries because those sections of the vessel are weaker. Rarely, a blow to the head or an infection in an artery can weaken an artery wall and cause an aneurysm.

Aneurysms resulting from infection of the arterial wall are called mycotic aneurysms. Cancer-related aneurysms are often associated with primary tumors or metastatic head and neck. Drug abuse, particularly the habitual use of cocaine, can inflame blood vessels and allow the development of cerebral aneurysms.

Aneurysms can be congenital (you can be born with the defect) or they may occur as a result of aging or disease. The most common disease associated with aneurysms is atherosclerotic disease.

A group of 8 genetic disorders of the nervous system that primarily affect the development and growth of nerve cell tissues (These disorders cause tumors to grow on nerves and produce other abnormalities such as skin changes and bone deformities .)

Symptoms of Aneurysm

Symptoms depend on the location of the aneurysm. common sites include the abdominal aorta, the intracranial muscles (supplying blood to the brain), and the aorta (supplying blood to the chest).

Some people may have seizures. Some people may quickly lose consciousness or go into a prolonged coma. People experiencing the headache worse, "especially when combined with other symptoms, should consult a doctor immediately.

Signs and symptoms of an aneurysm depend on its type, location, and if it broke or interfere with other structures in the body. Aneurysms can develop and grow for years without any signs or symptoms. It is often not until an aneurysm ruptures or grows large enough to press on nearby parts of the body or block blood flow it produces no signs or symptoms.