Aneurysms Specialist

University Vascular Our Services Aneurysms

University Vascular

Board Certified Vascular Surgeons located in Watkinsville, GA

Aneurysms are potentially deadly swollen blood vessels that form in a weak part of an artery wall. If you have concerns because of a family history of aneurysms or you're experiencing possible symptoms, the board-certified vascular surgeons at University Vascular can help. At their location in Watkinsville, Georgia, they use state-of-the-art technology to assess your arteries and locate any aneurysms. For swift diagnosis and treatment, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.

Aneurysms Q & A

What are aneurysms?

Aneurysms are sections of an artery that balloon out or get wider because the affected blood vessel walls are too weak to hold their shape.

You might develop an aneurysm because you have a congenital problem — one you were born with — that weakens your artery walls. Another possibility is that you have an injury or a form of aortic disease.

If other people in your family had aneurysms that can increase your risk, as can issues like smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

You can help reduce your risk of having an aneurysm by taking action to promote healthy blood vessels, including eating a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and stress management.

What types of aneurysms are there?

The most common types of aneurysms include:

  • Aortic aneurysm in your heart's major artery
  • Cerebral aneurysm in your brain
  • Popliteal artery aneurysm behind your knee
  • Mesenteric artery aneurysm in your intestines
  • Splenic artery aneurysm in your spleen

It's possible for aneurysms to occur in any artery.

What symptoms do aneurysms cause?

Aneurysms tend to develop gradually over time and frequently cause no symptoms. Very often, they only come to light when patients have tests for other conditions or undergo routine screenings.

If your aneurysm is near the surface of your skin, you might see a painful, throbbing, swollen area. When an aneurysm ruptures, symptoms can be sudden and severe and could include:

  • Pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Shock
  • Clammy skin
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood pressure

To diagnose an aneurysm, University Vascular uses ultrasound or a CT scan. They might also need to perform an angiogram.

How are aneurysms treated?

Once you know you have an aneurysm, you need to attend regular checkups at University Vascular to monitor any changes.

You might need to undergo surgery to strengthen the weakened artery wall with a mesh tube called a stent. Another potential treatment is a coiling procedure that shuts off the affected area when your aneurysm balloons to one side.

If you know you have an aneurysm and start experiencing symptoms, or you have any signs of having an aneurysm, call 911 as a ruptured aneurysm requires immediate medical attention.

To find out more or arrange an aneurysm screening, call University Vascular or book an appointment online today.

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