What Is Aortic Aneurysm?

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Aortic aneurysms are balloon-like bulges that occur in the aorta, the main
artery carrying oxygen-rich blood to your body.

The aorta has thick walls that stand up to normal blood pressure. However,
certain medical problems, genetic conditions, and trauma can damage or
weaken these walls. The force of blood pushing against the weakened or
injured walls can cause an aneurysm.

This health topic focuses on two types of aneurysms that affect the aorta:
abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA). Both
types are separate conditions with different risk factors and causes.
 Abdominal aortic aneurysm is the most common place for an aneurysm. The
abdominal part of the aorta runs through the stomach area. It carries
oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the tissues and organs of the abdomen
and lower limbs.