Synonyms and Alternative Terms for Aneurysm

Other Ways to Say Aneurysm: Alternative Words and Terms

An aneurysm is a ballooning or bulging of an artery caused by weakness in the blood vessel wall. When an aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to potentially life-threatening internal bleeding. Knowing the various synonyms for aneurysm can help in understanding this serious vascular condition.

What is an Aneurysm?

Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to tissues and organs throughout the body. The walls of arteries consist of layers of tough, fibrous tissue that expand and contract with blood flow.

An aneurysm develops when a section of artery wall weakens and bulges out from pressure of circulating blood. Often there are no initial symptoms, but larger aneurysms can be dangerous if left untreated due to risk of rupture.

Aneurysm Synonyms by Type and Location

There are several types of aneurysms that can form in different parts of the body. Some synonyms for aneurysm relate to the specific location or type:

Brain (Cerebral) Aneurysm

A brain or cerebral aneurysm forms along an artery in the brain. Other names for this include:

• Intracranial aneurysm
• Cerebrovascular aneurysm
• Berry aneurysm

Aortic Aneurysm

The aorta is the large artery that carries blood from the heart through the chest and abdomen. An aortic aneurysm may also be called:

• Thoracic aortic aneurysm - chest portion
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Ascending aortic aneurysm - near the heart
• Descending aortic aneurysm - down the chest

Arterial Aneurysm

Arterial aneurysm is a general term for an aneurysm affecting any large artery in the body. Some other examples include:

• Splenic artery aneurysm - spleen
• Mesenteric artery aneurysm - intestines
• Popliteal artery aneurysm - behind the knee
• Femoral artery aneurysm - thigh

Other General Synonyms for Aneurysm

In addition to aneurysm types named by location, there are also some general synonyms used to mean any aneurysm such as:

• Vascular aneurysm
• Arterial balloon
• Fusiform dilation
• Saccular dilation

What Causes an Aneurysm?

There are several contributing factors that can lead to aneurysm formation. The most common causes include:

Congenital Defect

Some people are born with thinner, weaker areas in artery walls that can balloon out over time. This congenital defect makes them prone to developing aneurysms.

Atherosclerosis

Buildup of fatty plaques inside arteries, known as atherosclerosis, can lead to damage and bulging of blood vessel walls. Aneurysms often form at sites of atherosclerotic lesions.

High Blood Pressure

Chronic high blood pressure stresses and weakens arterial walls. The force of elevated blood pressure against scarred or injured arteries contributes significantly to many aneurysms.

Smoking

Cigarette smoking accelerates atherosclerosis and increases blood pressure. Both of these effects raise the risk of developing a dangerous aneurysm that could rupture.

Trauma or Injury

Injury to an artery from trauma or surgery can damage its structural integrity. This disruption in the wall can then allow an aneurysm to form at the site.

Infection

Less commonly, infection of the arterial wall from bacteria, such as in endocarditis or syphilis, can create inflammation that triggers an aneurysm.

Genetic Factors

Genetic conditions like Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and polycystic kidney disease increase connective tissue defects and aneurysm risk.

Aneurysm Symptoms

Many aneurysms do not cause obvious symptoms initially and may only be detected incidentally. Some warning signs that can occur with larger aneurysms include:

• Localized throbbing or stabbing pain
• Blood pressure differences between arms or legs
• Sudden severe headache
• Rapid heart rate and sweating
• Dizziness
• Vision changes or pain behind the eyes
• Hoarseness, cough, difficulty swallowing
• Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

Aneurysm Rupture Symptoms

The most serious complication of an aneurysm is rupture, which causes dangerous internal or external bleeding depending on location. Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm may include:

• Sudden, severe pain where the aneurysm formed
• Clammy, sweaty skin
• Lightheadedness
• Rapid heart rate
• Fainting
• Low blood pressure
• Shock
• Loss of consciousness

Diagnosing an Aneurysm

If an aneurysm is suspected, specialized imaging tests can confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact location and size. Diagnostic modalities may include:

• CT scan - provides 3D cross-sectional X-ray images
• MRI scan - detailed images using radio waves and magnets
• Ultrasound - uses sound waves to visualize arteries and flow
• Angiogram - injects contrast dye to outline blood vessels via X-ray
• CTA scan - CT scan with intravenous contrast dye

Identifying Aneurysm Size and Shape

Imaging results also allow classification of an aneurysm by size and shape:

• Fusiform aneurysm - spindly bulb shape
• Saccular aneurysm - rounded sac shape
• Small aneurysm - less than 1.5 cm diameter
• Large aneurysm - over 5 cm diameter

Aneurysm Treatment Options

Several approaches are available to treat aneurysms based on factors like location, size and risk of rupture. Some common treatment methods include:

Medications

Medicines to reduce blood pressure and atherosclerosis may be used to stabilize small, stable aneurysms not likely to rupture.

Surgery

Surgical techniques can reinforce the aneurysm from outside or go inside the aneurysm to repair it. Options include:

• Open surgical repair - large incision to access aneurysm
• Endovascular stent graft - catheter tubes with stents
• Flow diverter - dense stents to divert blood flow

Embolization

Small polymer beads or metal coils can be injected to block blood flow into the aneurysm, preventing further swelling.

Preventing Aneurysm Rupture

People at risk for aneurysms should take proactive measures to detect them early and prevent potentially catastrophic rupture. Preventive strategies include:

• Quit smoking immediately
• Control high blood pressure
• Lower elevated cholesterol
• Take medications as prescribed
• Adopt healthy diet and exercise habits
• Limit alcohol and stimulant use
• Get regular medical exams and screening tests

The Takeaway

An aneurysm is a localized bulge that develops in a weakened artery wall. Various synonyms exist based on the type and location of the aneurysm. Knowing the alternative names for this vascular defect can aid in understanding the diagnostic process and treatment options.

Rupture of larger aneurysms can become a deadly emergency. Following doctor's orders, controlling risk factors and getting screened for aneurysms appropriately can help prevent a life-threatening rupture.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.