An aneurysm is a weak or thin spot on a blood vessel wall that causes the blood vessel to bulge, like a balloon. This can occur in any blood vessel throughout the body but most commonly occurs in arteries at the base of the brain, in the abdominal aorta and its major branches, and in the iliac artery. Aneurysms are classified by their location and size:
- Intracranial aneurysm - this type affects blood vessels within or near the brain.
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm – this occurs in the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
- Thoracic aortic aneurysm – this happens in the part of the aorta that runs through the chest.
Aneurysms can be caused by various factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, genetic conditions or injury to the blood vessel wall. Most aneurysms do not cause any symptoms and are discovered incidentally during tests for other reasons. However, some aneurysms may rupture causing severe internal bleeding which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Treatment options include surgery to repair the damaged blood vessel or endovascular procedures such as stenting or coiling of the aneurysm.