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Cardiovascular Health
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The thoracic aorta is the main blood vessel coming out of the heart. It is in the thorax, or chest. An aneurysm is a weakness and a bulge in an artery. If the thoracic aorta is injured it can bulge, like the bulge on an inner tube. When an artery bulges, the wall of the artery is weakened and this can lead to a leak or break. An aneurysm is a very serious problem. This is especially true if it is in the main artery coming from the heart. Aneurysms can be caused by cholesterol deposits that weaken the blood vessel, an inflammation of the blood vessel or an infection. They can also be caused by inherited conditions, such as Marfan's syndrome. Most often an aneurysm is found by an X-ray or other test such as an ultrasound. Sometimes aneurysms cause symptoms such as pain or shortness of breath that cause people to see a doctor. Many times, an aneurysm does not cause symptoms until it starts to leak or break. This can be very serious if this occurs. If the aneurysm is detected before it has started to leak or break, the doctor may recommend surgery to prevent a problem. A thoracic aortic aneurysm is very dangerous. Persons with this condition should closely follow their doctor's advice. They will probably need to take medicines to keep their blood pressure low and they may need surgery. Copyright © 1997 National Health Enhancement Systems, Inc.
(602) 230-7575. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change
without notice.
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