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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
When Should I Go to a Doctor?
A guide to health problems that should cause you to contact your doctor.
Unruptured AAA
![](https://services.nhslothian.scot/healthscreening/wp-content/uploads/sites/95/2022/12/aaaunruptured.jpg)
Unruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
In most cases an unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) will cause no symptoms, unless it becomes very large.
![](https://services.nhslothian.scot/healthscreening/wp-content/uploads/sites/95/2022/12/aaaquestion.jpg)
Symptoms
Symptoms of an unruptured AAA may include:
- A pulsating feeling in your stomach, usually near your belly button. It is usually only noticeable when you touch it.
- Constant back pain.
- Constant abdominal pain.
If you notice any of these, speak to your GP as soon as possible.
Ruptured AAA
![](https://services.nhslothian.scot/healthscreening/wp-content/uploads/sites/95/2022/12/aaaruptured.jpg)
Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
If an aortic aneurysm ruptures, you will feel a sudden and severe pain in the middle or side of your abdomen. The pain can also go down into the scrotum.
![](https://services.nhslothian.scot/healthscreening/wp-content/uploads/sites/95/2022/12/aaaquestion.jpg)
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Sweaty or clammy skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling faint
- Loss of consciousness
This is a medical emergency, and it is important to get to hospital as soon as possible.