What is an aneurysm?
Aneurysm is the medical term for an abnormally sized blood vessel. An aneurysm is typically regarded to exist when a blood vessel, or a section of it, gets twice the size of the non-diseased part of the vessel.
Does an Aneurysm need treatment?
Presence of an aneurysm is not always a reason to have treatment. But they are important to know about, and to check periodically. Small aneurysms rarely cause trouble and, while they remain small, are best watched.
Why watch and wait?
Some aneurysms don’t grow at all and remain small and low risk. Some grow slowly eventually getting to a size that might need to be treated after many years. Some grow faster and need treatment earlier.
Can Aneurysm growth be stopped?
Rate of growth of aneurysms once they have formed can ,in some cases, be reduced by lifestyle change and use of medical therapy. There are some scientific advances in this area but we currently know that stopping smoking and taking a drug called a statin helps stabilise aneurysms.
Why are Aneurysms important?
Any blood vessel can develop an aneurysm. Fortunately aneurysms are usually detected either by clinical examination by an doctor, by ultrasound scan, or by CT scan performed for another reason. However some people have aneurysms growing without their knowledge until they get large and risk bursting. This is a serious, life-threatening emergency.
Are Aneurysms common?
Aneurysms of all types are uncommon but the most frequently found is the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, AAA. The AAA is most commonly found in males over the age of 65, particularly if he is a smoker or used to smoke in the past. In some population studies about 10% of males over 65 have been found to have an aneurysm. Female smokers too, and the Maori population, have an increased risk.
How can you find out if you have an Aneurysm?
In some countries national screening programs have been set up to prevent premature deaths from AAA, there are plans to possibly start this kind of program in New Zealand, but it is a little way off. However, a consultation with you doctor will help you to decide whether to have a scan. A Vascular specialist will be able to advise you on the best investigation and whether treatment or regular surveillance is required. The Vascular specialist will guide you throughthe most appropriate treatment for you should you need it.
Where can I get an aneurysm scan?
Your GP will be able to refer you to a Vascular specialist, or you can contact Canterbury Vein Specialist directly here to make an appointment.
Aneurysm is the medical term for an abnormally sized blood vessel. An aneurysm is typically regarded to exist when a blood vessel, or a section of it, gets twice the size of the non-diseased part of the vessel.
Does an Aneurysm need treatment?
Presence of an aneurysm is not always a reason to have treatment. But they are important to know about, and to check periodically. Small aneurysms rarely cause trouble and, while they remain small, are best watched.
Why watch and wait?
Some aneurysms don’t grow at all and remain small and low risk. Some grow slowly eventually getting to a size that might need to be treated after many years. Some grow faster and need treatment earlier.
Can Aneurysm growth be stopped?
Rate of growth of aneurysms once they have formed can ,in some cases, be reduced by lifestyle change and use of medical therapy. There are some scientific advances in this area but we currently know that stopping smoking and taking a drug called a statin helps stabilise aneurysms.
Why are Aneurysms important?
Any blood vessel can develop an aneurysm. Fortunately aneurysms are usually detected either by clinical examination by an doctor, by ultrasound scan, or by CT scan performed for another reason. However some people have aneurysms growing without their knowledge until they get large and risk bursting. This is a serious, life-threatening emergency.
Are Aneurysms common?
Aneurysms of all types are uncommon but the most frequently found is the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, AAA. The AAA is most commonly found in males over the age of 65, particularly if he is a smoker or used to smoke in the past. In some population studies about 10% of males over 65 have been found to have an aneurysm. Female smokers too, and the Maori population, have an increased risk.
How can you find out if you have an Aneurysm?
In some countries national screening programs have been set up to prevent premature deaths from AAA, there are plans to possibly start this kind of program in New Zealand, but it is a little way off. However, a consultation with you doctor will help you to decide whether to have a scan. A Vascular specialist will be able to advise you on the best investigation and whether treatment or regular surveillance is required. The Vascular specialist will guide you throughthe most appropriate treatment for you should you need it.
Where can I get an aneurysm scan?
Your GP will be able to refer you to a Vascular specialist, or you can contact Canterbury Vein Specialist directly here to make an appointment.