An aortic aneurysm may not cause any symptoms. The type of symptoms you have will depend on the location of the aneurysm and whether it has grown large enough to affect other parts of your body. If you have symptoms of an aortic aneurysm, they may include:

• Difficult or painful swallowing if the aneurysm pushes on your esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth and your stomach
• Difficulty breathing if it pushes on your trachea or trachea
• Feeling full after not eating very much
• Hoarseness
• Pain in the neck, jaw, back, chest, abdomen or shoulder, depending on where the aneurysm is located
• A pulsating or throbbing feeling in the stomach area
• Shortness of breath if the aneurysm is pressing on your lung
• Swelling of the face, neck or arms if the aneurysm pushes on the superior vena cava, the vena cava will return blood from your upper body to your heart

If you know you have an aortic aneurysm, it is important to know the symptoms of a rupture or tear in the aorta, as prompt treatment can save your life. Symptoms of a fracture may include:

• Stiffness in the head
• Rapid pulse
• Sudden, severe pain in the stomach area, chest or back