Last time you stopped by, you may have read our last article about abdominal aortic aneurysms. We shared with readers an introduction as to what this gastro issue is. This week, we are going to look further into this issue and inform you of how gastroenterologists in Orlando can help treat it.

Risk factors associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms:

Previously, we discussed the risk factors of abdominal aortic aneurysms. There are few more that need to be shared. If any of these risk factors hit home, it is a fair warning to get a regular check up and examination for this specific condition.

As said in our last article, being a smoker is a risk factor. The people at highest risk for abdominal aortic aneurysms is men ages sixty-five years of age and older who smoke or have smoked in the past. The CDC, or Center for Disease Control and Prevention, recommends that male smokers, or ex-smokers, ages sixty-five to seventy get a routine abdominal ultrasound screening.

Keep in mind, this recommendation still applies to those men that have not experienced any symptoms. In 2014, there were studies that proved these screenings would leads to fewer incidents abdominal aortic aneurysm ruptures and a decrease in mortality rates associated with this condition. People who have a parent or sibling with condition have a twenty percent chance of developing the condition.

Additional risk factors include:

  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • inflamed arteries
  • atherosclerosis
  • emphysema
  • Marfan syndrome
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Orlando gastroenterologist share symptoms to look out for:

Just like any other condition, the symptoms usually will not look the same from patient to patient. Abdominal aortic aneurysms may develop over years and may not show many symptoms. Even the pulse in the stomach is rare.

Because of this, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and follow through will regular screenings for people with said risk factors. If symptoms do make an appearance, they are usually brought on suddenly.

The following symptoms are most often caused by a leak or tear in the aorta:

  • fainting
  • dizziness
  • low blood pressure
  • difficulty breathing
  • sudden weakness
  • shock
  • feeling sweaty or clammy
  • rapid heart rate
  • pain shooting into the buttocks or legs
  • intense pain in the back or abdomen
  • nausea and vomiting

These symptoms are not to be ignored, especially if you have any previously mentioned risk factors. A torn aorta is a medical emergency. Call for immediate medical help if you are someone close by experiences these symptoms.

Next time, we are going to continue this discussion. Thank you for stopping by and learning about this condition. Come back next time for more gastroenterology information! Make an appointment for an examination if you have an of the above risk factors.

Staff Writer