Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening: Who's at Risk and What to Expect

The aorta is the largest artery in your body. It runs from your heart down through your chest and abdomen. An abdominal aortic aneurysm, or AAA, is a weakened area where the artery wall bulges outward. Many people with an AAA have no idea it's there.

Why AAA is called a silent condition

An aneurysm usually grows slowly and often causes no symptoms at all. Most are found by chance during an imaging test for something else, or through screening. A screening ultrasound measures the width of the aorta so that any enlargement can be found and monitored by a doctor.

Who is at higher risk?

Known risk factors for AAA include:

• Being 65 or older
• Being male
• Smoking now or in the past (the strongest risk factor)
• A family history of aortic aneurysm
• High blood pressure and atherosclerosis (plaque buildup)

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends a one-time ultrasound screening for men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked. People outside that group sometimes choose screening too, especially with a family history, and it's worth talking about with your doctor.

What the screening is like

• You lie on your back on an exam table.
• Warm gel is applied to your abdomen.
• The sonographer moves a probe across your belly to image the aorta and measure its diameter.

It takes about 10 to 15 minutes, uses no radiation and no needles, and is painless. Because gas in the intestines can make the aorta harder to see, many clinics suggest avoiding a heavy meal beforehand. We'll tell you exactly how to prepare when you book.

What happens with the results

At ProActive Health Screening, a board-certified cardiologist reviews your images and the measurements are included in your written report. If anything needs follow-up, you can take the report to your own doctor.

Important: sudden, severe pain in the abdomen or back can be a medical emergency. Call 911. A screening is for people without symptoms.

AAA screening as part of a full visit

At our Tustin clinic, the aorta ultrasound is one of four screenings in a 60-minute visit, together with an EKG, a carotid ultrasound and an ABI circulation test. See what's included.

Frequently asked questions

Is AAA screening painful?

No. You may feel light pressure from the probe on your abdomen, but nothing more.

Do I need a referral?

No, you can book directly.

Is the screening covered by insurance?

Medicare covers a one-time AAA screening for eligible people, usually with a referral. Our screenings are self-pay and HSA/FSA eligible. More on insurance and payment.

Want peace of mind about your aorta? Book your screening at proactivescreen.com.

This article is for general education and isn't medical advice. Talk with your doctor about which screenings are right for you.