An artery aneurysm is a local ballooning of a blood vessel. Most start silent, but when they stretch or leak they send clear, urgent signals.

Deep, steady pain is the headline. It feels like a dull weight or throbbing ache that doesn’t go away with rest or common painkillers.

Pulsing lump may show up. You feel a rhythmic thump under the skin, especially in the belly, groin, or behind the knee.

Pressure symptoms creep in. If the aneurysm pushes on nearby parts, you may notice trouble swallowing, a hoarse voice, or leg swelling.

Shortness of breath can appear if the vessel is near the heart or lungs.

Sudden, severe pain, fainting, or a drop in blood pressure are late alarms—clues the vessel may be tearing or rupturing.