Many people believe that as you age, your body automatically becomes more susceptible to ailment, and even underlying dormant conditions can become active in later stages of your life. Although there are some plausible reasons for people to consider this true, the fact remains that there are certain ailments that can happen almost any time, regardless of your age. Hence, pinpointing a specific cause in such a case is challenging.
Aortic Aneurysms
According to CDC, an aortic aneurysm is basically a bulge or a swelling in the aorta that almost mimics a balloon-like structure. The aorta is said to be the largest artery in our body. It is responsible for transporting blood from our hearts. As the blood is carried around in our chest and torso via the aorta, it always has a chance of suffering an aortic aneurysm, leading to the aneurysm getting dissected or ruptured. It is a thoracic aortic aneurysm if it happens in the chest area. However, an abdominal aortic aneurysm is more common and occurs below the chest area.
Causes of Aortic Aneurysms
Even though there is ongoing research to find explicit causes of the aortic aneurysm as a dissection or a rupture can be fatal, there are still no official causes outlined. However, certain lifestyle choices and illnesses have been shown to increase the risk of getting an aortic aneurysm. Following are those three factors:
(i) High Blood Pressure or Hypertension
High blood pressure has become increasingly common in recent years. It happens when the level of pressure increases on your blood vessels. Hence, the ailment is known to weaken your aortic walls, consequently leading to the formation of an aneurysm.
(ii) Vascular Inflammation or Vasculitis
Vascular inflammation or vasculitis causes your aorta, among other arteries, to become inflamed. Therefore, an abdominal aortic aneurysm is a likely suspect due to the size of the aorta. However, it is important to note that it happens very rarely.
(iii) Smoking
There is no upside to smoking. Among the plethora of issues it can cause, it shouldn’t come as a shock that smoking weakens your arteries and consequently leads to high blood pressure. Hence, this makes you more susceptible to aortic aneurysms for several reasons.
In Conclusion,
Safe to say, there isn’t an exact cause of aortic aneurysms, and it can very well happen to almost anyone. However, don’t worry or be disheartened. Take it as an all the more reason to look after yourself, invest in better healthcare and take special care of your vascular system. It is always a good idea to get regular checkups and tests after 50. In fact, if you are anywhere from 65 to 70 years old and have smoked, schedule an ultrasound screening today!
In case you are around Hillandale, Snellville, or Conyers, Georgia, book your appointment with Milner Vein & Vascular. We are a dedicated team of doctors committed to promoting vascular health and the local community’s well-being. Our adult and elderly clients can feel at ease with us as we assure to exceed their expectations. Our vein clinic is specialized yet cost-efficient, so you don’t hesitate to prioritize your vein and vascular health. Contact us today to get started!