Aortic aneurysm: Why the largest artery can rupture without symptoms

Aortic aneurysm is a critical dilation of the body's largest artery. As the arterial wall stretches and thins, it becomes susceptible to rupture under blood pressure, which typically causes massive internal bleeding. Because the pathology often develops without obvious symptoms, regular health screenings are a primary method for early detection. Risk Factors and Warning Signs In individuals over 65, atherosclerosis—where cholesterol deposits weaken the vessel wall—is a primary risk factor. Other contributing causes include chronic hypertension, chest trauma, and connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome. Smoking significantly accelerates the growth of abdominal aneurysms, increasing the rate four to five times. Therapist Anna Kuznetsov told Pravda.Ru that an aneurysm rupture causes massive internal bleeding, which in most cases leads to death before emergency medical services can arrive.