Can a pseudoaneurysm cause fatigue?

Can a Pseudoaneurysm Cause Fatigue?

While fatigue is a common symptom with many potential causes, it’s not typically the first sign that comes to mind when thinking about vascular issues like pseudoaneurysms. Yet, in rare cases—especially with celiac arterial pseudoaneurysms (CAPAs)—fatigue can indeed be a telling clue.

A pseudoaneurysm occurs when there's a small tear in an artery wall, leading to blood leaking and forming a contained pool, often held by surrounding tissues. Unlike a true aneurysm, this is more of a "false" bulge. When it happens in the celiac artery—rare but documented—it may not always cause dramatic symptoms, but when it does, the presentation can be subtle and easily overlooked.

Abdominal pain is the most frequently reported symptom, often accompanied by nausea or vomiting. However, emerging case reports and clinical observations suggest that fatigue and lightheadedness are also notable signs. These non-specific symptoms may point to underlying blood loss, reduced perfusion, or even a chronic bleed that slowly depletes the body’s reserves—leading to an overall sense of exhaustion.

Because fatigue is so general, it can delay diagnosis if not considered in context. In patients with unexplained tiredness, especially when paired with vague abdominal discomfort, clinicians should consider rarer vascular causes like CAPAs—particularly if there’s a history of abdominal trauma, pancreatitis, or recent invasive procedures.

While rare, recognizing the full spectrum of symptoms, including fatigue, can be crucial. Early detection through imaging like CT angiography can prevent complications such as rupture or hemorrhage. So yes, in specific, unusual cases, a pseudoaneurysm may quietly manifest as more than just pain—it might first show up as persistent, unexplained fatigue.