Facts

• According to the Vascular Disease Management (VDM) website, splenic aneurysms are the third most common form of abdominal aneurysm, with imaging technology advances allowing earlier detection.
  
  

Side Effects

• You may have a splenic aneurysm and not realize it, VDM says. Symptoms associated with splenic artery aneurysm include pain in the upper left portion of the abdomen, vomiting and nausea.
  
  

Ruptured Aneurysm

• An aneurysm's rupture may be heralded by extreme pain in the upper left quadrant, reports The New York Times (NYT), followed by shock, with lightheadedness, fast heartbeat and low blood pressure.
  
  

Organ Failure

• According to VDM, hypovolemic shock occurs in 3 to 10 percent of cases, and can result in organ failure. Symptoms include confusion, agitation, increased perspiration, paleness, rapid breathing, clammy skin, decreased output of urine and general weakness.
  
  

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Your doctor can diagnose a splenic artery aneurysm via ultrasound or CT scan. Treatment will largely depend on the size of the aneurysm. Surgical intervention may be required, says the NYT.