MHVI Owners Manual . Conditions . Aneurysm

What Is It?
Sometimes the buildup of plaque in the arteries (atherosclerosis) causes weakening of the artery wall instead of a blockage. Over time, the force of blood passing through the weakened vessel causes the wall to balloon out. As it balloons, the wall stretches and can become dangerously thin. This thin, expanded area is called an aneurysm. It can occur in any artery, but frequently happens in larger ones such as the aorta, which is the main artery in your body that starts at your heart and travels through the chest and into the abdomen.

Treatment

Because there is danger of the blood vessel bursting if the wall becomes too thin, the treatment for an aneurysm is usually aneurysm surgery, which removes the weakened area of the artery and replaces it with a special type of artificial vessel called a graft. This graft restores proper circulation.
Medications that control blood pressure and cholesterol levels and dilate blood vessels are usually prescribed.
As is the case with many of the cardiovascular treatments discussed in this manual, new therapies are being introduced frequently. Your doctor will keep you informed about the latest advances.
As with all cardiovascular conditions, lifestyle management will be very important.
If you are a smoker, you will need to quit immediately.
You will need to follow a heart-healthy diet that is high in fiber and nutrients and low in fat and salt. This will help control your blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Stress reduction can help to control anxiety and tension which increase the force of your heartbeat and cause additional pressure on the artery walls.