Thoracic Aneurysm Symptoms Awareness Leads to Proper Response

An aneurism can occur when a blood carrying artery narrows and hardens, a condition known as atherosclerosis. High blood pressure can lead to what is called an aortic dissection, a separation of the tissue layers within the aorta, the largest artery leading from the heart supplying blood throughout the body. A thoracic aneurysm occurs in the chest area and can lead to disability and possible death.

One of the problems identifying thoracic aneurysm symptoms is that nearly 50 percent that suffer this condition are asymptomatic, or do not exhibit any signs or problems. Aneurysm symptoms may appear but this is dependent upon the size and location or, in the case of a thoracic aneurysm, the occurrence of aortic dissection. In the other half of the population suffering this condition, aneurysm symptoms appear as:

• Extreme difficulty breathing
• Jaw and neck pain
• Sudden and deep pain in the chest and/or upper back

In many individuals, the first sign of aneurysm symptoms can be a Transient Ischemic Attack, or TIA, know commonly as a “mini-stroke.” Ironically, people suffering from a mini-stroke display aneurysm symptoms that, when recognized, can help save their lives. These TIA symptoms, which can last up to 24 hours, include:

• Sudden and extremely intensely painful headache
• Loss of vision in one eye
• Loss of movement and sensation in one arm or leg
• Slurred speech
• Numbing weakness on one side of the body
• Confusion, disorientation
• Dizziness and possible fainting

Anyone exhibiting these signs should be transported immediately to a hospital emergency room to see a doctor before the condition worsens. You need to tell the doctor about any of these aneurysm symptoms suffered as well as any history of heart disease and diabetes. This may help to prevent a ruptured thoracic aneurysm, which, if this occurs, could lead to severe disability and death.

What Causes the Situation?

There are several causes leading to the appearance of thoracic aneurysm symptoms that include a family history suffering the condition (congenital), plus behavior factors such as smoking, a lifelong diet containing consumption of fatty foods and hypertension (high blood pressure).

What About Detection?

Due to the fact half the people suffering from this condition present no thoracic aneurysm symptoms, it is often discovered during medical examinations for different complaints. An aneurism smaller than five centimeters (about 1.5 inches) typically does not exhibit any symptoms. However, once detected, it should be monitored at least once every six months. A licensed physician will more than likely prescribe medication to control high blood pressure reducing the risk for the aneurysm to grow and rupture. Additionally, it is a good idea to request an examination even when not exhibiting thoracic aneurysm symptoms if there is a family history suffering this condition.

Whether manifested or detected during an exam, thoracic aneurysm symptoms are indicators for impending health problems that could include an aortic rupture, heart attack, kidney failure and arterial embolism, or blood clot.

Any signs no matter how trivial should be checked by qualified medical personnel to protect your health and your future.