Issue Date: October 30, 2005
Lurking danger
Like Dick Cheney's, an aneurysm often has no symptoms.
By Dr. Tedd Mitchell
Risk factors for aneurysms
Family history of aneurysms
Smoking
High blood pressure
Advanced age (particularly men over 60)
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Several patients have asked me about Vice President Cheney's recent surgery to repair an aneurysm. An aneurysm occurs when a blood vessel wall weakens, causing that area of the artery to bulge like a balloon. This can happen in virtually any artery, but it most often occurs in the aorta, brain, groin area or in arteries behind the knees (where the vice president had his problem). The danger of an aneurysm is that it represents a weakened part of the arterial wall and can rupture if not repaired. Unfortunately, many people with aneurysms have no symptoms, and each year thousands of seemingly healthy Americans die when an aneurysm ruptures.
Most aneurysms occur slowly over many years, so finding them can be difficult. MRI and CT scans and ultrasound are some methods of evaluating the integrity of the vessels. Often, smaller aneurysms are treated by controlling blood pressure and monitoring their size over time. Others require either open surgery or a newer technique called endovascular repair.
As with many other medical conditions, you can curb certain risks. If you smoke, then kick the habit. Eat food low in saturated fat and salt. Exercise regularly. If you need to, lose weight. All of these measures can improve your blood pressure and lower your chance of developing an aneurysm. If you are at risk, then see your doctor. He can review your personal and family medical histories to see if screening is appropriate for you.
Tedd Mitchell, M.D., is medical director of the Wellness Program at Dallas' Cooper Clinic.
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