Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Test
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a condition in which the lining of the blood vessel called the aorta is enlarged within the abdomen. Because abdominal aortic aneurysms are likely to tear if they reach 5 centimeters in diameter, monitoring is important for preventing a rupture. A ruptured AAA can cause blood loss, shock, and death. Aortic aneurysms usually occur in the abdomen below the kidneys, but may occur in the chest cavity. Abdominal aortic aneurysms pose a threat because they are usually silent until a medical emergency occurs. The majority of AAA’s are discovered as a result of medical imaging for other conditions.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of abdominal aortic aneurysm is not known, but the following are risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Emphysema
- Genetic factors
- Gender (males have a higher risk)
Integra Wellness uses ultrasound technology to measure the size of your abdominal aorta. The process is painless. You lie on your back on an exam table while a technologist applies gel to your abdomen. The technologist then takes images and measurements of your aorta by moving an instrument called a transducer across your abdomen.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Test
- Wear a comfortable 2-piece outfit consisting of loose clothing
- Make sure the meal you eat 4 hours prior to your test is a light one (less than 1/2 of what you normally eat of non-gassy food)
- If you are thirsty during your light fasting period, you may have 1/2 cup of coffee or tea and a moderate amount of water
- If you take medication, take it as prescribed
If you are diabetic, please limit yourself to a "diabetic meal" (piece of toast, 1 cup of any kind of juice and 1/2 cup of coffee or tea). If you are in doubt, please follow your diabetic care plan.