Symptoms

Thoracic aortic aneurysms often grow slowly and usually without symptoms, making them difficult to detect. Some aneurysms will never rupture. Many start small and stay small, although some expand over time. How quickly an aortic aneurysm may grow is difficult to predict.

As a thoracic aortic aneurysm grows, some people may notice:

• Tenderness or pain in the chest
• Back pain
• Hoarseness
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Aortic aneurysms can develop anywhere along the aorta, which runs from your heart through your chest and abdomen. When they occur in the chest, they're called thoracic aortic aneurysms. Aneurysms can occur anywhere in the thoracic aorta, including near the heart, in the aortic arch and in the lower part of the thoracic aorta.

Thoracic aortic aneurysms are less common than aneurysms that form in the lower part of your aorta (abdominal aortic aneurysms). An aneurysm can also occur in between the upper and lower parts of your aorta. This type of aneurysm is called a thoracoabdominal aneurysm.

When to see a doctor

Most people with aortic aneurysms don't have symptoms unless a tear or rupture occurs. A dissection or rupture is a medical emergency. Call 911 or your local emergency number for immediate assistance.

If an aneurysm ruptures or one or more layers of the artery wall tears, you may feel:

• Sharp, sudden pain in the upper back that radiates downward
• Pain in your chest, jaw, neck or arms
• Difficulty breathing

If you have a family history of aortic aneurysm, Marfan syndrome or another connective tissue disease, or a bicuspid aortic valve, your doctor may recommend regular ultrasound or radiology testing such as CT scans or MRI exams to screen for aortic aneurysm.