Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)

What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm?

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

The aorta is the main artery that carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body.• An aneurysm is a weak, bulging area in the wall of the aorta.• When this occurs in your tummy (abdomen), it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

Why is an AAA Important?

AAAs can slowly grow larger.• As they grow, they can weaken and may burst (rupture). AAA rupture is a very serious life threatening condiciton and needs emergency treatment.

Who is at Risk?

You are more likely to develop an AAA if you:• Are male• age over 65• Have ever smoked• Have high blood pressure• Have a family history of aneurysms

What Symptoms Should I Watch Out For?

Most AAAs cause no symptoms.However, if an aneurysm becomes large or bursts, you may have:• Sudden, severe tummy or back pain• Dizziness or collapse• A throbbing feeling in your tummy👉 Call 999 immediately if you get these symptoms.

Diagnosis of AAA:

 

Aortic diameter of 3 cms is used as threshold size for diagnosis.

AAA 3.0 to 5.4 cms- do not require urgent tretament ut is monitered with regular ultrasound scans every 6 months to a year.

AAA 5.5 cms or bigger- urgent consultation with vascular surgeon for consideration of treatment

 

How is an AAA Found?

• Often picked up during scans for other health problems• Men over 65 in the UK are offered a screening ultrasound scan• Ultrasound is simple, quick, and painless

How is an AAA Treated?

• Small AAAs (under 5.5 cm): Regular monitoring with ultrasound• Large or fast-growing AAAs (5.5 cm or bigger): May need surgerySurgery options include:✅ Open repair (replacing weak artery section)✅ EVAR (Endovascular repair using a stent graft)

What Can I Do to Stay Healthy?

• Stop smoking• Eat a healthy, balanced diet• Keep blood pressure under control• Stay active• Attend all follow-up scans and appointments

Why is Screening Important?

✅ AAA screening saves lives✅ Finding an aneurysm early means it can be monitored or treated before it ruptures

Questions or Concerns?

If you have been diagnosed with an AAA or would like more advice:

Contact:Mr. Devaraj Srinivasamurthy Consultant Vascular Surgeon📞 07848267117 e-mail Hardip_kaur@myyahoo.com

REMEMBER: Early detection and regular monitoring can save your life.