Amanda Antell  |  May 6, 2019

Category: Antibiotics

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Diagram of aortic aneurismAortic aneurysms are abnormal bulges or enlargements of the aorta. They typically occur in the abdomen but can also occur in the upper body.

The aorta is a large vein that extends from the top of the heart to the front of the backbone. It divides into different blood vessels that are responsible for circulating blood to the abdominal organs and legs.

With how vital the aorta is, the question of whether or not a patient can survive an aortic aneurysm has been asked by numerous patients at an increased risk for cardiac complications and who are taking certain medications like fluoroquinolone antibiotics.

Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are among some of the most widely used medications in the United States with over 20 million users, so their alleged correlation with aortic aneurysms is troubling.

Here are some frequently asked questions about aortic aneurysms patients may find helpful.

What is the difference between a thoracic aortic aneurysm and abdominal aortic aneurysm?

Abdominal aortic aneurysms
(AAA) develop in the part of the aorta that runs through the abdomen, below the renal arteries that branch out to the kidneys. Approximately 75 percent of aortic aneurysms are abdominal, and most commonly affect men between the ages of 40 to 70.

Thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) develop in the part of the aorta that runs through the chest, which includes the ascending aorta, the aortic arch, and descending thoracic aorta.

What causes aortic aneurysms?

Approximately 80 percent of aortic aneurysms are cases by atherosclerosis, which is when the arteries harden. According to UW Health, this happens when cholesterol and fat build up in the arteries, which can lead to further complications like aortic dissection.

When the arteries get clogged, collagen and elastin proteins break down at a fast rate and cause the aortic wall to weaken. These proteins provide strength, structure, and elasticity, which means the aortic wall will weaken over time without sufficient amounts. When the walls of the aorta become weak or damaged, the aortic bulge will continue to expand and potentially dissect. Other causes of aortic aneurysm include:

  • Inflammatory diseases like Takayasu’s arteries, which may block blood flow through the aorta
  • Genetic connective tissue disorders like Marfan Syndrome
  • Severe physical trauma to the chest or abdomen

Are aortic aneurysms fatal?

Aortic aneurysms can be potentially fatal if allowed to progress and eventually burst. Also known as aortic dissection, according to Medical Xpress, hemorrhaging may occur in the abdominal cavity and become potentially fatal.

When the aneurysm bursts, it allows blood to enter the aortic wall and separates the inner and middle aortic layers. When the outside of the aortic wall weakens, it could rupture or leak and become fatal.

While these conditions could be fatal, they don’t have to be. Patients should seek treatment as soon as possible to maximize their chances to survive an aortic aneurysm.

What are the symptoms of an aortic aneurysm?

To survive an aortic aneurysm, patients should be vigilant for any signs and symptoms of this condition including, but not limited to:

  • Shortness of Breath
  • Pounding Heart
  • Upper Back Pain
  • Coughing or Wheezing
  • Swallowing Difficulty
  • Swelling in Neck or Arms

Symptoms of an aortic dissection include, but are not limited to:

  • Severe stabbing pain in center of chest, abdomen, or back
  • Decreased mobility in arm, leg, or other part of the body
  • Rapid pulse
  • Sweating
  • Dizziness

A warning of a link between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and aortic aneurysm has been issued by the Food and Drug Administration. Those exhibiting symptoms of this condition should contact a medical professional immediately.

Join a Fluoroquinolone Aortic Aneurysm, Aortic Dissection Lawsuit Investigation

If you or a loved one were prescribed Fluoroquinolones such as Cipro, Levaquin or Avelox and were later diagnosed with an aortic dissection or aortic aneurysm, you may have a legal claim. Fill out the form on this page now for a FREE case evaluation or call 1-(855)-JONES-LAW (1-855-566-3752).

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