An inherited disease such as Marfan syndrome, which affects the body's connective tissue, causes people to have long bones and very flexible joints. People with this syndrome often have aneurysms. White men over the age of 55 have a greater risk of developing an aneurysm. Aneurysm is one of the top 10 leading causes of death among this group. Aneurysms can be detected by physical exam, on a basic chest or stomach X ray, or by using ultrasound.
Symptoms are different depending on the type and location of the aneurysm.
Symptoms result from the pressure caused by an aneurysm's pressing against nearby organs, nerves, and other blood vessels. For example, Aortic aneurysms may cause shortness of breath, a croaky or raspy voice, backache, or pain in your left shoulder or between your shoulder blades. When this happens, the pain may be sudden and severe. Patients often feel like something is ripping or tearing inside of them. Abdominal aortic aneurysms may cause pain or tenderness below your stomach, make you less hungry, or give you an upset stomach.