Aneurysm 101

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Identifying an Aneurysm

A small aneurysm may not cause any symptoms. But they can be detected by X-ray, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), an ultrasound, or a computed tomography (CT) scan. If you have a small aneurysm your doctor will want to check it regularly to see if it's enlarging. Detecting and treating aneurysms before they become dangerously enlarged is the main reason for this close followup. Symptoms of an aneurysm depend on where it's located. For example, aneurysms in the brain can cause impaired vision and headaches. Or there may be pain in the area of the aneurysm. The larger an aneurysm becomes, the more likely it is to burst, which is a medical emergency requiring surgery. If you have a family history of aneurysm and are between the ages of 65 and 74 or are a male with a smoking history over age 65, you have increased risk and should have a one-time screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with abdominal ultrasound.