This is the dilatation or ballooning of a section of the aorta, which is the main artery coming out of the heart. An aneurysm usually occurs because of an underlying weakness in the wall of the aorta at that point. Aneurysms will often run in families and are much more common in men. Smokers are also at greater risk.

Usually, you will not have any symptoms from the aneurysm and it may only be discovered through an ultrasound scan or a CT scan. If the aneurysm grows beyond a certain size treatment will be required. Sometimes, aneurysms may cause symptoms such as tenderness, back pain or an awareness of a pulsating lump in your abdomen.