Coastal Vascular Center


An aneurysm, which is when the wall of your artery weakens and balloons, can develop over several years without you even realizing it until it bursts and becomes a medical emergency. But there are steps you can take to identify and manage aneurysms that may reduce your risk of complications. At Coastal Vascular Center, with offices in Simi Valley, Camarillo, and Oxnard, California, the experienced vascular team can provide the care you need to manage your aneurysm and reduce your risk of more serious health issues. For a consultation, call the office or request an appointment online today.

Aneurysm Q & A

What is an aneurysm?

An aneurysm occurs when there’s a weakening in the wall of your artery that causes it to balloon or widen. Doctors aren’t certain what causes an aneurysm to develop. However, you may be at risk if they run in your family or you have a medical history of high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Smoking also increases your risk of developing an aneurysm.

The weakening of an artery that creates an aneurysm can occur in any artery in your body. However, the most common aneurysms include:

  • Aortic aneurysm (major artery in your heart)
  • Cerebral aneurysm (artery in the brain)
  • Mesenteric artery aneurysm (artery in your digestive tract)
  • Popliteal artery aneurysm (artery in your leg)
  • Splenic artery aneurysm (artery in your spleen)

Over time, the pressure of your blood against the weakened portion of your artery may cause it to rupture. If you or a loved one has a ruptured aneurysm, you need to call 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room.

Do aneurysms cause symptoms?

No, aneurysms don’t always cause symptoms. If your aneurysm is close to the surface of your skin, you may notice the mass and experience some pain and swelling. 

You may experience symptoms if your aneurysm grows quickly or it bursts, such as:

  • Sudden pain
  • Clammy skin
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Low blood pressure
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Shock

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you need to seek immediate medical care. 

How are aneurysms diagnosed?

Because aneurysms don’t cause symptoms, they’re often found incidentally during evaluations for other health concerns. The team at Coastal Vascular Center recommends aneurysm screenings for all adults over age 60 who have a first-degree (mother or father) family history of an aneurysm. 

Diagnostic imaging, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, may be recommended to confirm or rule out an aneurysm.

What are the treatments for an aneurysm?

Treatment for your aneurysm depends on the location and the degree of ballooning. In some cases, your doctor may suggest monitoring your aneurysm. 

However, depending on your needs, the vascular surgeons at Coastal Vascular Center may recommend surgery for your aneurysm, such as placement of a stent, which is a metal mesh, to reinforce the artery wall. 

The team at Coastal Vascular Center utilizes the most advanced treatments and tools for aneurysms, including the Zenith® fenestrated stent graft (ZFEN) to address complex infrarenal aortic aneurysm.  

For aneurysm screenings and treatment options, contact Coastal Vascular Center by phone or online today.