An aortic aneurysm is a balloon-like bulge in the body’s main artery. Most grow slowly and stay silent, but when symptoms appear they mean the vessel is stretching or starting to fail. Deep, steady chest or back pain is the classic clue. It feels like a weight or dull ache that doesn’t go away with rest or antacids. Pulsing sensation can show up. You feel a steady thump deep in your chest or abdomen, especially when lying flat. Shortness of breath creeps in if the aneurysm pushes on the windpipe. You puff faster on stairs or can’t finish a sentence... Learn more