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Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Abdominal aortic aneurysm: An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a swelling in the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart to the tummy (abdomen). This clinic guide summarises recognised symptoms, assessment and care considerations.
Symptoms
Pain or aching
Warning signs
Seek urgent in-person care for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion, sudden weakness, uncontrolled bleeding or rapid deterioration.
For immediate danger, call Rescue 1122 or seek emergency care.
Possible causes
Recognised contributors may include blood-flow or circulation changes.
Risk factors
Factors discussed during assessment may include blood-flow or circulation changes.
Diagnosis
A clinician assesses Abdominal aortic aneurysm by reviewing the symptom pattern, timing, health history and examination findings. Similar conditions may need to be excluded before a diagnosis is confirmed.
Common tests / investigations
Depending on the presentation, investigations may include ultrasound.
General treatment overview
Care may involve a procedure or surgery. The plan depends on severity, cause, other conditions and current medicines.
Lifestyle guidance
Keep a symptom record, bring current medicines and reports to the consultation, and follow condition-specific activity, nutrition and self-care advice from the clinical team.
Prevention
Not every case of Abdominal aortic aneurysm can be prevented. Early assessment and control of modifiable risk factors may reduce complications where relevant.
Related conditions
Related conditions are considered from the symptom pattern, medical history and clinical examination.
Medical references
Original general information informed by recognised medical sources. It does not replace individual physician assessment.