What symptom is associated with rupture of an aortic aneurysm?

• A. Gradual chest discomfort
• B. A sudden tearing feeling in the body and severe abdominal pain
• C. Intermittent claudication
• D. Chronic coughing

Answer: (B)

Rupture of an aortic aneurysm presents as an abrupt, life-threatening event with severe, sudden pain. The classic description is a tearing or ripping sensation, often felt in the abdomen if the aneurysm is abdominal, and it may radiate to the back. This sudden onset reflects rapid bleeding into the retroperitoneum or peritoneal space and can lead to shock if not treated immediately. That vivid, instantaneous pain distinguishes rupture from more gradual or chronic symptoms.

The other options don’t fit as well. Gradual chest discomfort suggests a non-ruptured process such as stable angina or a slowly enlarging aneurysm causing dull pressure rather than an abrupt catastrophe. Intermittent claudication is leg pain from peripheral arterial disease, not an acute rupture. Chronic coughing isn’t a typical presentation of aneurysm rupture and points to other conditions like chronic respiratory disease.

So the best-fitting symptom is a sudden tearing feeling with severe abdominal pain, signaling a ruptured aortic aneurysm. This is an emergency requiring immediate medical attention.