Aortic Aneurysm Specialist

Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group

CARDIOVASCULAR DOCTORS & PODIATRY LOCATED IN GREATER HEIGHTS, DOWNTOWN, HOUSTON, PEARLAND, AND KINGWOOD, TX

More than 80% of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms end in death. That worrisome statistic proves the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. At Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group, with offices in Greater Heights and Downtown Houston, Texas, Pearland, Texas, and an office in Kingwood, Texas, the team of heart and vascular specialists knows the risks of aortic aneurysm — and they’re here to offer treatment. Call the office in your area or use the online scheduling tool.

Aortic Aneurysm Q & A

What is an aortic aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge within the aorta — the largest artery. The aorta moves blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Aortic aneurysms can occur anywhere in your artery, with the most common aortic aneurysms being:

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

An abdominal aortic aneurysm, the most common type, develops in your abdomen. Atherosclerosis (artery hardening) is the most common reason for this kind of aneurysm, however, trauma and infection can also cause an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Abdominal aortic aneurysms can also run in families. If your immediate relative has one, you’re 12 times as likely to have one.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm

A thoracic aortic aneurysm develops in the chest. This kind of aortic aneurysm is usually related to high blood pressure or traumatic injury. You may have a higher risk of thoracic aortic aneurysm if you have a connective tissue disorder like Marfan syndrome.

What are the symptoms of a thoracic aortic aneurysm?

The symptoms of a thoracic aortic aneurysm may include:

Chest pain
Upper back pain
Breathing difficulty
Swallowing difficulty

These symptoms, especially the pain, usually start suddenly and feel very sharp.

What are the symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

In many cases, abdominal aortic aneurysms don’t cause symptoms. But this type of aneurysm may cause persistent deep pain in your back, abdomen, or side if it starts to grow. Some people also experience a pulse in the navel area.

How are aortic aneurysms treated?

The Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group team starts with ultrasound imaging, which produces an accurate picture of your artery and everything around it. Your treatment can vary with the size, location, and type of aneurysm.

In some cases, you may need only monitoring and healthy lifestyle changes. If you have conditions that could worsen your aneurysm, like hypertension, you may need medication.

If your aneurysm grows, you may need surgical artery repair. Repair commonly involves a stent graft to hold the artery open and restore blood flow.

Earlier is better regarding the diagnosis and treatment of aortic aneurysms. In fact, it could save your life. Call the Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group or click on the online appointment scheduler for compassionate care.

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