It looks like we are not the only ones who understand the importance of knowing your risk for aneurysm.
An aneurysm occurs when part of an artery bulges, may rupture, and could cause dangerous internal bleeding.
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute says risk factors include:
- Being male, since men are more likely than women to have an aneurysm.
- Being age 65 or older.
- Smoking, which can lead to weakening of the artery walls.
- Having a family history or personal history of aneurysm.
- Having high blood pressure, heart disease or another disease that can weaken artery walls.