what causes aortic aneurysms to grow
The pressure of the blood inside the artery causes the weaker section of wall to balloon. Aneurysms can occur in any artery, but they most commonly occur in the aorta. Most aortic aneurysms occur in the section of the aorta that passes through the tummy (abdomen). These are known as abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).
Tears in the wall of the aorta (dissection) and rupture of the aorta are the main complications of thoracic aortic aneurysm. A ruptured aortic aneurysm can lead to life-threatening internal bleeding. In general, the larger the aneurysm, the greater the risk of rupture.