Are Aneurysms Hereditary? Know Your Family’s Health History

Did your father die from a stroke? Maybe your cousin was rushed to the emergency center with an aortic aneurysm that caused extensive damage.

An aneurysm is frightening. It can cause extensive organ damage, lead to strokes, and require survivors to undergo intensive physical and occupational therapy to regain function. Aortic aneurysms, which affect your heart and the largest blood vessel in the body, can be deadly. 

Studies have shown that smoking, unhealthy cholesterol levels and high blood pressure are the main risk factors for aneurysms—but what about family history? Are aneurysms hereditary?

We’ll go in-depth about the link between your genes and the likelihood you are to develop an aneurysm. 

At Conway Medical Center, we’ve been safeguarding your heart health for decades, combining the experience and expertise of the best physicians to form our comprehensive vascular services at the Coastal Vascular Institute. Here, you’ll find cutting-edge research and the latest, state-of-the-art procedures and equipment to ensure you receive the highest level of care for your vascular issues. We’re proud to serve Conway, Myrtle Beach, Horry County and the surrounding regional areas. Speak to your primary care provider to get a referral. 

Are Aneurysms Hereditary? What the Research Says

Two First-Degree Relatives Can Increase Your Risk

A first-degree relative is a parent, sibling or child. If you have two or more first-degree relatives with an intracranial (brain) aneurysm, you could be at risk of developing one yourself, according to a study from the Journal for Neurosurgery.

If you have at least two family members who have had one of these aneurysms, your likelihood of developing them is two to three times higher than the general population. 

Extensive studies are ongoing into the genes involved, but in certain families, there’s an increased risk without a clearly identified genetic marker. Therefore, while family history does carry some influence, there are also multiple risk factors involved. 

Family history also means you could also be at risk for:

  • Having multiple aneurysms
  • Increased risk of an aneurysm rupture
  • Worse outcomes after an aneurysm rupture

What Causes an Aneurysm?

When your blood vessels are weak, a bulge–similar to a small balloon–can form. This is an aneurysm. When the aneurysm grows, it increases the likelihood that it will rupture, causing internal bleeding. Aneurysms can also block blood flow to certain areas of your body, blocking oxygen from reaching important organs.

Aneurysms can occur in your brain, in your legs–and in nearly every vessel and artery in your body. Aortic aneurysms can damage the aorta, which runs from your heart to your chest and into your abdomen. 

Who Is at Risk for an Aneurysm?

Family history isn’t the only risk factor. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you could be at greater risk of developing an aneurysm:

  • Are you between the ages of 30 and 60?
  • Are you female?
  • Do you smoke?
  • Do you have high blood pressure?
  • Have you used drugs (especially cocaine)?
  • Do you overindulge in alcohol?
  • Do you have any of these disorders:
    • Diseases like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that can damage your blood vessels.
    • A narrow aorta
    • Polycystic kidney disease

How Can You Prevent an Aneurysm?

While you can’t do much about whether or not there’s a familiar aneurysm or genetic predisposition to them in your family, there are factors that you can control.

Fortunately, by following basic principles of good health, you can dramatically reduce the likelihood of developing an aneurysm. These include:

  • Avoid smoking. If you do smoke, speak with your doctor about methods to help you quit.
  • Eat a nutritious diet
  • See a primary care doctor regularly who can help you manage any chronic health conditions like high cholesterol or high blood pressure
  • Exercise regularly

Are Aneurysms Hereditary? Reduce Your Risk Regardless of Family History By Working With Our Team at Conway Medical Center

At our Coastal Vascular Institute, you’ll find the treatment and care you need for issues ranging from lymphedema to aortic aneurysms. We’ve created a winning team of experienced, compassionate physicians and healthcare professionals to guide you through your treatment, always ready to provide care tailored to your needs.

We encourage you to speak to your primary care physician for a referral to our Coastal Vascular Institute.

Key Takeaways:

  • An aneurysm occurs when weakened blood vessels create a “balloon” that can block blood flow or, even worse, rupture, causing extensive, serious damage.
  • While there is a familial connection to developing an aneurysm, genetics don’t tell the complete story.
  • Following the principles of good nutrition, smoking cessation, and working with your primary care provider to manage chronic health issues can help you prevent one.
  • Our vascular care team of experienced doctors and health care professionals is ready to help you. 

 

The content within this article and others on this website is only for educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. For any questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider.