Aneurysm Ruptures

What Is an Aneurysm Rupture?

An aneurysm rupture occurs when a weakened or bulging artery (aneurysm) bursts, causing sudden and severe internal bleeding. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Aneurysms can form in various arteries, but ruptures most commonly occur in the:

• Aorta (Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm or Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm)
• Brain (Cerebral Aneurysm, which can cause a hemorrhagic stroke)
• Peripheral arteries (such as in the legs or arms)

Aneurysm rupture can lead to shock, organ failure, or death if not treated urgently. Early diagnosis and monitoring of aneurysms is the best way to prevent rupture and serious complications.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of an aneurysm forming and rupturing, including:

• High blood pressure (hypertension) – Increases stress on artery walls.
• Smoking – Weakens blood vessels and accelerates aneurysm growth.
• Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) – Damages arteries over time.
• Family history – Genetic predisposition to aneurysms or connective tissue disorders.
• Age – The risk increases after age 60.
• Sex – Men are more likely to develop abdominal aortic aneurysms, while women have a higher risk of ruptured brain aneurysms.
• Connective tissue disorders – Conditions like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome weaken artery walls.
• Previous aneurysm history – Having had one aneurysm increases the risk of another.

Excessive alcohol use or drug abuse – Can contribute to high blood pressure and vascular damage.

Regular screenings and risk management can help detect aneurysms early and reduce the chance of rupture.

Symptoms

Aneurysm ruptures cause sudden and severe symptoms that require immediate emergency care. Symptoms vary depending on the location of the aneurysm:

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Rupture

• Sudden, severe abdominal or lower back pain
• Pulsating mass in the abdomen
• Rapid heart rate and low blood pressure
• Fainting or loss of consciousness

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Rupture

• Severe, sharp chest or upper back pain
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Coughing up blood
• Sudden drop in blood pressure

Cerebral (Brain) Aneurysm Rupture

• Sudden, intense headache ("thunderclap headache")
• Blurred vision or double vision
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body

Peripheral Aneurysm Rupture

• Severe pain and swelling near the affected artery
• Cold, pale, or numb limb
• Loss of pulse in the extremity

If an aneurysm rupture is suspected, call 911 immediately - delaying treatment can be fatal.

Treatment

Aneurysm ruptures require emergency medical intervention to stop bleeding and restore circulation. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the rupture.

Emergency Medical Management

• IV fluids and blood transfusions – Helps stabilize blood pressure.
• Pain management and oxygen therapy – Supports breathing and reduces stress on the body.

Surgical and Endovascular Repair

• Open Surgical Repair – A graft replaces the ruptured section of the artery.
• Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR/TEVAR) – A stent graft is placed inside the artery through a catheter, reinforcing the weakened area.

AtlantiCare’s vascular specialists provide 24/7 emergency care, using the latest surgical and endovascular techniques to save lives and improve survival rates.

Prevention

The best way to prevent aneurysm rupture is through early detection, lifestyle changes, and medical management. Key prevention strategies include:

• Routine screening for high-risk individuals (especially for abdominal aortic aneurysms in men over 65).
• Managing high blood pressure and cholesterol to keep artery walls strong.
• Quitting smoking – One of the most effective ways to slow aneurysm growth.
• Regular exercise to promote vascular health.
• Healthy diet with low sodium and high fiber to support heart and artery function.
• Monitoring existing aneurysms with imaging tests (CT, MRI, ultrasound).

For individuals with a family history of aneurysms, regular vascular check-ups can help detect and manage aneurysms before they become life-threatening.