What symptom might indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm?

Lower back pain is a symptom that can indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). An AAA occurs when there is a weakening and dilation of the abdominal portion of the aorta, which can lead to pain as the aneurysm expands. Patients may experience referred pain that radiates to the back due to the anatomical location of the aorta and the resulting pressure on nearby structures. This pain can often manifest as a persistent discomfort in the lower back area.

In contrast, severe headaches are more commonly associated with neurological issues, chest tightness typically suggests cardiac problems such as angina or myocardial infarction, and radiating arm pain is often a classic symptom of heart-related conditions like a heart attack. Each of these symptoms points towards different medical emergencies, making lower back pain a more direct and relevant indicator of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.