Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

The following symptoms and complaints may indicate abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) (abdominal aortic aneurysm):

  • Chronic back or abdominal pain/flank pain or even diffuse abdominal discomfort (abdominal pain).
  • Possibly palpable pulsatile tumor

Notice:

  • Most patients with a nonruptured AAA are asymptomatic.
  • If the AAA is pressure-dolent (painful on palpation), there is an increased risk of rupture → immediate further evaluation and surgery!
  • Acute onset of severe back or abdominal pain + symptoms of hypovolemia (volume deficiency) or hemorrhagic shock (hemorrhagic shock/volume deficiency shock) → (covered) ruptured AAA likely!

Symptoms of acute rupture

  • Annihilation pain + fear of death
  • Shock