Aneurysm Symptoms Explained: When to Seek Emergency Care
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Aneurysms are silent until they aren’t. Aneurysms affect thousands of people each year, and while they can be life threatening, understanding the warning signs offers a powerful defense. By knowing what to look for, you can take control of your health and potentially save a life — maybe even your own. In this blog, we help you understand aneurysm symptoms across different parts of the body so you can act fast.
What is an aneurysm?
What to know: An aneurysm is a bulge or ballooning in a weakened area of a blood vessel. Over time, pressure from blood flow causes this weakened section to balloon outward, similar to a worn out tire that starts to bubble.
Key facts:
- Aneurysms can occur in the abdomen, chest or peripheral arteries such as those in the legs and neck.
- Many aneurysms show no symptoms until they rupture.
- Risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, vascular disease and family history.
If an aneurysm grows too large, it may burst and cause internal bleeding — a life threatening emergency.
Peripheral aneurysms explained
A peripheral aneurysm occurs in an artery outside the aorta and outside the brain. These affect smaller arteries that supply the limbs and nearby regions.
Common locations include:
- Popliteal artery (behind the knee) — the most common
- Femoral artery (groin)
- Carotid artery (neck)
- Iliac artery (pelvis)
- Visceral arteries (kidneys, spleen)
While peripheral aneurysms are less likely to rupture, they pose serious risks because blood can pool in the bulge and form clots, potentially blocking blood flow to the limb.
Screening is crucial
Many aneurysms grow silently for years, making early detection essential. “When it comes to aneurysms, early detection gives us the greatest advantage,” says David Neel, M.D., a vascular surgeon at INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital. “Most people don’t feel symptoms until the situation becomes urgent, so staying proactive with screenings is one of the most important steps patients can take to protect their health.”
Routine imaging such as ultrasound or CT scans can detect aneurysms early and help reduce complication risks. If you have a family history, high blood pressure or other risk factors, speak with your provider about preventive screening.
Common symptoms of an aneurysm
Symptoms vary depending on location and whether the aneurysm has ruptured.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) symptoms include:
- Deep, persistent abdominal pain
- Back pain that doesn’t improve with movement or rest
- A pulsating feeling near the belly button
- Nausea or dizziness
- Sharp, sudden pain or fainting (possible rupture)
Peripheral aneurysms (popliteal or femoral aneurysms) symptoms include:
- A painful or tender lump behind the knee or in the groin
- Swelling in the leg
- Coldness or color changes in the foot
- Numbness or tingling
- Pain when walking
- Sudden severe leg or foot pain if a clot blocks blood flow
Why peripheral aneurysms are dangerous
Even without rupture, they may:
- Form blood clots
- Send clots downstream, blocking blood flow
- Cause tissue damage
- Threaten limb function if not treated
When to seek emergency care
A ruptured aneurysm is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if you experience:
- Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Sudden weakness, dizziness or collapse
- Signs of shock: clammy skin, rapid heartbeat or confusion
Time is critical — delaying care can be life threatening.
How aneurysms are treated
Treatment depends on the aneurysm’s size, location, growth rate and symptoms.
Monitoring
Small, stable aneurysms may be managed with monitoring, including:
- Regular imaging
- Blood pressure control
- Smoking cessation
- Routine follow up appointments
Surgical treatment options
Open surgical repair:
- The weakened vessel is replaced with a synthetic graft.
- Often recommended for large or rapidly growing aneurysms.
Endovascular repair (EVAR or stent grafting):
- A minimally invasive procedure placing a stent inside the artery.
- Reinforces the weakened area from within.
- Often results in faster recovery.
Both approaches aim to prevent rupture and reduce complications.
Find a doctor at INTEGRIS Health
What’s next: Regular check-ups with a health care provider can help detect aneurysms early and reduce your risk of complications. Find a trusted doctor at INTEGRIS Health to discuss your concerns and stay proactive about your health.
This article was medically reviewed by David Neel, M.D., a vascular and endovascular surgery physician in Oklahoma City.
