An aortic aneurysm may not cause any signs or symptoms until the aneurysm ruptures or dissects. The types of symptoms that occur before a rupture will depend on the location of the aneurysm and whether it has become large enough to affect other parts of your body. An aneurysm that ruptures or dissects is life-threatening.
If you do have signs and symptoms of an aortic aneurysm, they may include:
- Difficult or painful swallowing if the aneurysm is pushing on your esophagus
- Difficulty breathing if it is pushing on your trachea, or windpipe
- Feeling full after not eating very much
- Hoarseness
- Pain in the neck, jaw, back, chest, abdomen or shoulder, depending on where the aneurysm is located
- Pulsating or throbbing feeling in your abdomen
- Shortness of breath if the aneurysm is pressing on your lung
- Swelling of the face, neck, or arms if the aneurysm is pushing on the superior vena cava. The superior vena cava is the main vein that returns blood from your upper body to your heart.
If you know you have an aortic aneurysm, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of a rupture, since quick treatment may be life-saving. Signs and symptoms of a rupture may include:
- Light-headedness
- Rapid heart rate
- Sudden, severe pain in your abdomen, chest, or back
