This occurs when the wall of a blood vessel weakens and balloons out in the aorta. This can result in an increase risk in the vessel bursting and causing bleeding. Aneurysms can occur in any artery, but they commonly occur in the aorta that passes through the abdomen.
Patients who suffer from aneurysms often do not suffer from symptoms and they can remain undetected, unless they increase in size. However aneurysms are more likely to be discovered by chance.
This medical condition is commonly found in men 65+, the NHS operate a national screening service inviting all men over 65 to attend a simple scan of their abdomen to detect potential aneurysms.
Treatment
For information on treatment for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms visit the NHS choices webpage.