Could you be at risk for an aortic aneurysm?

An aortic aneurysm is a silent threat that develops in the blood vessels, and it often goes undetected—until it's too late. So, how do you know if you’re at risk? Amit Patel, MD, a vascular surgeon at Atlantic Health, explains that while not everyone is at risk, certain factors can increase the chances of developing an aortic aneurysm—and knowing the warning signs saves lives.

What is an aortic aneurysm?

An aneurysm occurs when a weakened area in the wall of a blood vessel bulges—or worse, ruptures—causing internal bleeding, stroke, and even death. Aneurysms can form in various parts of the body, but they most commonly develop in the brain, the aorta (the body’s main artery), or the peripheral arteries in the arms or legs.

What are the signs and symptoms?

According to Dr. Patel, there is no specific screening for aneurysms since they develop silently over time and are usually discovered by chance during routine imaging. Most patients are asymptomatic, and symptoms only occur before an aortic aneurysm is about to rupture. Symptoms can include:

Back or abdominal pain
Pulsing sensation in the abdomen
Loss of consciousness

“If an aortic aneurysm ruptures, it’s a medical emergency. You must act quickly and call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency department,” says Dr. Patel. “Internal bleeding causes symptoms to come on rapidly with loss of consciousness, intense pain, or signs of stroke.”

What contributes to high risk?

1. Smoking

Tobacco damages blood vessels and causes high blood pressure. It is a major risk factor, particularly for aortic aneurysms.

2. Age and Gender

Risk increases with age. Men are more likely to develop an abdominal aortic aneurysm, while women have a higher risk of aneurysm rupture, regardless of its location.

3. Family History

Aneurysms tend to run in families. If a parent or sibling has had one, especially a brain aneurysm, your risk is higher.

4. High Blood Pressure

Chronic high blood pressure can weaken arterial walls over time, making them more prone to bulging and rupture.

5. Underlying Conditions

Certain congenital medical conditions can make blood vessels more fragile. Infections and injuries can also lead particularly to aortic aneurysm, although this is rare.

How can I reduce my risk?

Not all aneurysms are preventable, but many risk factors can be controlled. For example, patients over 65 with a smoking history should have a screening ultrasound, so talk with your doctor. Imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds can detect aneurysms before they become life-threatening.

“Smoking wreaks havoc on blood vessels, so the best way to reduce your risk of aneurysm is to quit smoking,” says Dr. Patel. “Staying active and eating a heart-healthy diet that’s low in saturated fat and sodium also helps control blood pressure. Plus, regular checkups and screenings can catch potential problems early.”

Find a Primary Care Doctor

“

Smoking wreaks havoc on blood vessels, so the best way to reduce your risk of aneurysm is to quit smoking. Staying active and eating a heart-healthy diet that’s low in saturated fat and sodium also helps control blood pressure.- Amit V Patel, MD, vascular surgeon

Published: October 03, 2025

Related health & wellness articles

Healthy LivingCould you be at risk for an aortic aneurysm?

Healthy LivingThe benefits of eating local produce may surprise youAn Atlantic Health dietitian explains how eating local produce offers health benefits to you and your family, while also helping your local farmer, the community and the environment.

Healthy LivingChronic inflammation: a silent threat to long-term healthChronic inflammation in the body builds up slowly over time and can contribute to long-term health problems. An Atlantic Health expert explains how to keep it in check.

Heart Health6 ways to control high blood pressureLower blood pressure and protect your heart with 6 simple lifestyle tips from a cardiologist, covering diet, exercises, stress and healthy habits.

Healthy LivingAnti-inflammatory diets: What are they and are they right for you?Learn how anti-inflammatory diets can ease painful symptoms and lower your risk of chronic disease from an Atlantic Health expert.

Mental WellnessThe cortisol effect: how stress hormones affect your healthWhat role does cortisol (the stress hormone) play in your health? Atlantic Health expert explains when too much cortisol becomes a problem, and how to keep it in check.

Healthy LivingWhat your fingernails say about your healthLearn what to do if you see changes in your fingernails and what they might mean from a primary care physician at Atlantic Health.

OrthopedicsWhat to do when foot cramps strikeFoot and leg cramps can stop you in your tracks. An Atlantic Health expert shares common triggers, treatment strategies, and tips to prevent cramping.

Heart HealthSwollen feet and ankles? It may be venous insufficiencySwollen feet and ankles may seem like a minor issue. But according to an Atlantic Health expert, they could be an early warning sign of poor circulation—or something more.

Healthy LivingConfronting health disparities in LGBTQ+ communitiesHealth care disparities are prevalent in LGBTQ+ communities. An Atlantic Health System expert explains why this is happening, and what’s being done to improve care for marginalized groups.

Healthy LivingSigns your gallbladder isn’t working properlyThe gallbladder is a small organ, but when it’s not working properly, it can cause big problems — like gallstones — so learn the early signs and symptoms.

Healthy LivingFinding new life after a liver transplant After a shocking diagnosis of end-stage liver disease, 69-year-old Joe found hope and healing through a life-saving liver transplant and expert care at Overlook Medical Center and NYU Langone.