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[av_heading heading=’THE DOCTOR IS IN’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=” av-medium-font-size-title=” av-small-font-size-title=” av-mini-font-size-title=” av-medium-font-size=” av-small-font-size=” av-mini-font-size=” admin_preview_bg=”]
BY JESSICA SEGOVIA-YAP, MD
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ANEURYSM has gained a lot of attention lately after the demise of a popular celebrity because of it. This also led to an increase in clinic consultations secondary to headache especially among neurologists because of the aneurysm scare.
So what really is an aneurysm?
An aneurysm refers to a weakening of an artery wall that creates a bulge, or distention of the artery. Most aneurysms are asymptomatic and are not dangerous. However, when it gets to a severe stage it can rupture, leading to a life-threatening internal bleeding.
Although an aneurysm can occur in any part of the body, they are most common in the brain, the aorta (the largest artery found in our chest cavity which connects directly to the heart), legs, and spleen.
The cause of an aneurysm is unclear but certain factors may contribute to the condition such as damaged arteries brought about by blockage secondary to fatty deposits which hardens the arteries’ wall. This make the heart pump harder to push the blood past the fatty buildup. This stress can further damage the arteries because of the increased pressure.
Because aneurysm can occur in different parts of the body, the symptoms may also vary. It is worthy to note that aneurysms that occur in the body or brain don’t present signs or symptoms until they rupture.
If an aneurysm, however, occurs near the surface of the body, signs of swelling and pain may occur. A large mass may also develop and maybe felt especially in the abdomen.
The symptoms of ruptured aneurysm may include: bleeding, increased heart rate because of low blood pressure or shock, pain, feeling lightheaded or dizzy. If the internal bleeding is severe, the mortality rate is very high, especially if emergency management is not instituted.
So who are at risk for aneurysm?
In general, males have a higher risk than females. Older people especially those 60 and above have an increased risk versus younger ones. Those with cholesterol problems and with heart conditions, smoking, obesity and pregnancy.
Computed Tomography (CT) scan and ultrasound are common tools to diagnose it.
Treatment depends on the location and type of aneurysm. Minimally invasive procedures such as stent graft maybe all that a patient needs. Management of the risk factors is important such as antihypertensives for those with high blood pressure, anticholesterol medications to lower cholesterol levels and medications to slow down the heart may also be used.
So how do we prevent aneurysm?
It all boils down to basics, healthy diet especially avoiding cholesterol-rich food, increasing intake of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, regular exercise to promote blood circulation and quit smoking.
If in doubt or if you feel something is wrong, don’t hesitate to visit your doctor.
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Jessica P. Segovia-Yap, M.D., FPAFP is a Diplomate and Fellow of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians. She is a practicing Family Medicine Specialist and holds clinic at the Medical Arts Building of Iloilo Mission Hospital. For comments, questions and suggestions, you may email at drjec.is.in@ gmail.com./PN
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