9. Low Blood Pressure – A Possible Indicator of AAA Rupture
One of the signs of a ruptured AAA is a sudden drop in blood pressure. This occurs because the blood that was previously being carried by the aorta is now leaking into the abdomen, reducing the volume of blood that is available to circulate throughout the body. As a result, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can cause the blood pressure to fall.
In addition to low blood pressure, other symptoms of a ruptured AAA include severe abdominal pain, back pain, and a rapid heartbeat. Some people may also experience a sudden and intense feeling of weakness or dizziness, and may even faint.
Diagnosis of a ruptured AAA typically begins with a physical exam and a thorough medical history. Your doctor may also order a variety of tests, including a CT scan, an ultrasound, or an MRI, to get a better look at the aorta and determine the extent of the aneurysm.
Treatment for a ruptured AAA typically involves surgery to repair the damaged blood vessel. This may involve repairing the aneurysm using a synthetic graft or replacing the damaged section of the aorta with a prosthetic vessel. In some cases, the procedure may be performed through a minimally invasive approach, such as an endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), which involves accessing the aneurysm through a small incision in the groin.
The prognosis for a ruptured AAA depends on a number of factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, and the extent of the aneurysm and bleeding. In some cases, the damage from the ruptured AAA may be irreversible, and the patient may require ongoing medical treatment and monitoring to manage their symptoms and prevent complications.
It is important to note that not all individuals with an AAA will experience a drop in blood pressure. Some people may have an aneurysm that grows slowly and does not cause any symptoms, while others may experience other symptoms such as pain or a pulsating sensation in the abdomen.
If you have been diagnosed with an AAA, it is important to work closely with your doctor to monitor the aneurysm and prevent it from rupturing. This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight, as well as taking medications to control blood pressure and prevent blood clots. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend surgery to repair the aneurysm before it ruptures.
Prompt treatment can help prevent further blood loss, shock, and other life-threatening complications associated with a ruptured AAA. (9)
