An aortic aneurysm can be a life-threatening condition if not detected early. In this month’s Stay Well Health Chat, Andrew Salciunas speaks with Eden Payabyab, MD, a Virtua Health vascular surgeon, about what an aortic aneurysm is, how it develops, and why timely diagnosis is so important.br br Dr. Payabyab explains that the aorta is the largest vessel carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Over time, factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, family history, or genetic conditions can weaken the aortic wall. This can cause the wall to bulge like an overinflated balloon, increasing the risk of rupture or tear—a medical emergency.