Aorta is the largest blood vessel in the body. Although a durable and a tough workhorse, it can sometimes weaken due to a formation of a bulge. This is called aortic aneurysm. It is the dilation or enlargement of the aorta. In some instances, the enlargement can be greater than 1.5 times the normal size.

This condition causes a leak in the vessel that results in spilling of blood inside the body. On bursting, the blood flows away from organs and tissues. This might cause problems, leading to heart attack, kidney damage, stroke, and in some cases, death.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm
Aortic aneurysm symptoms in the abdominal area develop slowly, causing no or minor discomfort. Some of the common signs of suffering from abdominal aortic aneurysm include gnawing feeling around the stomach or a throbbing sensation in the abdomen. Abdominal aortic aneurysm symptoms can become intolerable and severe, if not treated at the onset of the earliest signs.

Let us take a look at these symptoms in detail.

Abdominal pain
the primary sign of the abdominal aortic aneurysm, the patient might feel a stabbing pain deep in their abdomen between the bellybutton and the sternum. Described as continuous pain, it might not be relieved by resting or even changing positions. The severe pain can cause patients to double over, as they might find it difficult to straighten their body.

Pulsating sensation with a feeling of tenderness in the abdomen
the patient might feel a mass pulsating in their abdomen, which can be felt through the skin. The pulsating sensation might be sensitive to touch and pressure. The doctors might recreate the pain and tenderness to diagnose and confirm the presence of the abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Lower back pain
the stabbing pain and the pulsating sensation might radiate to the lower back causing pain. This happens because of aorta’s proximity to the spine. The patient might also experience pain in their groin, pelvis, and legs.

Symptoms of shock
The internal bleeding caused due to leakage and bulge in the aorta might lead to shock which has its own set of symptoms like rapid heartbeat, clammy skin, shallow breathing, cold sweats, confusion, anxiety, agitation, and losing consciousness.

Hypertension
Blood loss due to internal bleeding can also result in low blood pressure. This might lead to lightheadednesss, dizziness, confusion, vomiting, nausea, and blurred vision. The symptoms might aggravate if the patient is standing for a long time.

The above-mentioned symptoms require immediate medical attention. This is because once an aneurysm has ruptured, it might expand quickly. This can lead to internal bleeding, which can be life threatening.

Abdominal bloating is the result of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract being filled with gas or air. A bloated stomach usually makes one feel swollen or tight in and around the abdomen.

If you have a bloated stomach, you might also be experiencing pain, frequent burping, rumbling in the abdomen, excessive gas or belching. A bloated stomach can be highly uncomfortable. It can interfere with your lifestyle by hampering your ability to work or partake in recreational activities. Abdominal bloating is a common health condition experienced by people across all age groups. There can be several causes of abdominal bloating such as gas and other health conditions. Here are a few possible reasons.

Gas
This is the most common cause of a bloated stomach. When the undigested food is broken down, there might be a buildup of gas in the digestive tract. You might also experience abdominal bloating if you swallow too much of air while eating. You shouldn’t eat or drink too fast in order to prevent a bloated stomach. Avoid smoking. Make sure your dentures are not loose.

Medical conditions
Certain medical issues have a tendency of causing abdominal bloating. An irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel diseases worsen the problem. You should get yourself checked for functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and identify food items you might be intolerant to. Abdominal bloating may also be a result of eating disorders. Such health conditions may cause bacterial overgrowth or deficiency in the GI tract. The accumulation of gas and abnormal stomach refluxes results in a bloated stomach. Abdominal bloating may be a symptom of serious underlying health conditions as well. These include accumulation of pathologic fluid in the abdominal cavity due to cancer, kidney or liver diseases.

You can relieve abdominal bloating by making certain changes. You can get bloating stomach relief by adopting a combination of lifestyle changes, massage therapy and medications.

Lifestyle changes
Maintain a healthy body weight. Exercise regularly to stay fit and shed those extra pounds! In order to avoid a bloated stomach, you should take care not to swallow too much of air. Do not consume too many carbonated drinks. Ensure that you chew your food and eat slowly. Avoid chewing gum and drinking through a straw. Avoid food items containing lactose.

Abdominal massages
Studies have shown that a 15-minute long abdominal massage twice a day can relieve a bloated stomach. Abdominal massages can also relieve you from pains and cramps due to bloating. These abdominal massages have added benefits as well. They are known to reduce depression and anxiety. Massage therapies help you lead a healthy life and prevent many symptoms associated with bloating.

You should consult your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain. You might have to take medications if making changes in your lifestyle and diet do not relieve the bloating. Depending on your condition, treatment may include antibiotics, antidepressants or antispasmodics.