Types of Aneurysms

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

 

An aortic aneurysm is a weakened or bulging area on the wall of the aorta.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm occurs when the large blood vessel (the aorta) that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis and legs becomes abnormally large or balloons outward. This type of aneurysm is most often found in men over age 60 who have at least one or more risk factor, including emphysema, family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and smoking.

The rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is a medical emergency, and only about 20 percent of patients survive. Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention if you have extreme pain in your belly or back that does not go away. Learn more about this type of aneurysm.

Cerebral Aneurysm

 

Watch an animation of a cerebral aneurysm occurring during a hemorrhagic stroke.

Cerebral aneurysms, which affect about 5 percent of the population, occur when the wall of a blood vessel in the brain becomes weakened and bulges or balloons out. There are many types of aneurysms.

The most common, a "berry aneurysm," is more common in adults. It can range in size from a few millimeters to more than a centimeter. A family history of multiple berry aneurysms may increase your risk.