Visuals by: Julianna Campesi Presented by: Ela Buczek Aneurysm Visuals by: Julianna Campesi Presented by: Ela Buczek

Description of Aneurysms An aneurysm is when part of an artery wall weakens and widens abnormally. There are multiple kinds of aneurysms based on where they occur in the body. There are a few that are more common than others. An aortic aneurysm occurs in the aorta. A cerebral aneurysm occurs in the brain. A popliteal artery aneurysm occurs behind the knee. A mesenteric artery aneurysm occurs in the intestine. A splenic artery aneurysm occurs in the spleen.

Causes of Aneurysm The causes of most aneurysms are unknown, though some aneurysms may be congenital (to be born with it). Aneurysms may also occur as a result of an injury or of an aortic disease. A family history of aneurysms, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking may also increase the risk of getting an aneurysm.

Symptoms of Aneurysm The development of the aneurysm often has no symptoms, though if it develops on the surface a painful, swelling mass may be visible. When an aneurysm expands or ruptures abruptly, symptoms may include: Pain Clammy Skin Dizziness Nausea/Vomiting Rapid Heart Rate Shock Low Blood Pressure

Prevention There is no definite way to prevent the onset of an aneurysm, but there can be ways to prevent the aneurysm from rupturing. It is important to seek regular checkups and appointments with a doctor to monitor unruptured aneurysms. Some procedures can also be done to reinforce the artery wall using a stent, or to close off an area where the aneurysm may have protruded (coiling procedure). Eating healthily, controlling blood pressure, quitting smoking, managing stress, and exercising may also reduce the chance of getting an aneurysm.

Treatment/Cure Seeking medical attention for unruptured aneurysms is always important. Treatments help to stop the aneurysm from growing, prevent damage to other body structures, prevent an aneurysm from rupturing, and make aneurysms manageable for everyday life. Medicines may be used to lower blood pressure and relax blood vessels before surgery is needed. Open abdominal surgery is used to remove the aneurysm from the aorta. Endovascular repair is used to strengthen the aorta without removing the aneurysm.

References http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/VascularHealth/AorticAneurysm/What-is-an-Aneurysm_UCM_454435_Article.jsp#.WMrkQfnyuM8 j/4data:image/jpeg;base64,/9AAQSkZJRgABAQAAZABkAAD/2wBDAAgGBgcGBQgHBwcJCQgKDBQNDAsLDBk –Picture #1 https://vascular.org/sites/default/files/gallery/taaheader.jpg - Picture #2 https://steptohealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/brain-aneurysm-2-copy.jpg - Picture #3 http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/content/images/articles/156/156993/diagrams-of-arteries-and-blood-flow.jpg - Picture #4