(HealthDay News) -- Aneurysm is the medical term for a bulging area of an artery that's stretched out like a balloon. It occurs when the artery wall becomes weak or damaged.
The U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute lists these possible causes of an aneurysm:
Being older.
Having plaque buildup inside an artery (atherosclerosis).
Having high blood pressure.
Being a smoker.
Having an infection or illness that leads to inflammation of the blood vessels.
Having a family history of aneurysm.
Having a genetic condition that weakens blood vessels.
Sustaining an injury or trauma, such as being in a car accident.
A bulge in an artery
(HealthDay News) -- Aneurysm is the medical term for a bulging area of an artery that's stretched out like a balloon. It occurs when the artery wall becomes weak or damaged.
The U.S. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute lists these possible causes of an aneurysm: