Midlands Cares: Understanding an Abdominal Aneurism

Tyler Ryan learns about the medical A-A-A and how it can be treated - if detected

COLUMBIA SC (WOLO) – There is a growing affliction for many people generally aged 50-84 called Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm – or a A-A-A.  The question is what in the world is this medical problem that has nothing to do with the auto club?  MUSC Doctor Shane Parmer, “an aneurysm, in essence, is a bulge in an artery…arteries as a rule are like tubes, and in some cases, over time, they weaken.  Dr. Parmer says that the weaknesses can cause bulging, and in many cases can pop like a balloon.  

So when it comes to the aorta, making the second A of the  A-A-A, Dr. Parmer explains that it is the largest artery in the body, and can often times be related to the build up of plaque in the body that can lead to heart attacks and strokes, as it pretty much branches off to every other artery.  This leads to 15,000 to 20,000 deaths each year.

Dr. Parmer does point out that there are some risk factors that can play into a diagnosis, including smoking, and age.  Another issue is that often times, there people may often not even know that they have the condition, as there may not be any associated symptoms.  He says that it is often detected when you are seeing your doctor for another problem, such as back problems.

Provided it is detected, the good news is that it can be treated and often repaired, with no long term impacts.  As with any medical issue, detection is key, and that comes with routine screenings, which are becoming more available.

If you would like more information or would like to have a conversation with Dr. Parmer, HERE is his contact info.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tyler Ryan is an award winning television and radio personality, writer, investigative journalist, and professional emcee.  He appears daily on ABC Columbia’s Good Morning Columbia, as well as the radio stations in the iHeart Media Network.  Tyler also regularly appears as a criminal expert and journalist on regional and national crime based programs.  You can contact him directly via EMAIL Or on the socials: Tyler’s Instagram  // Tyler’s Facebook