That rhythmic throb in your abdomen is almost certainly your aorta — and that's usually fine. But if the aorta is enlarged, you deserve to know. A 30-minute ultrasound at our Falmouth imaging center gives you a definitive answer.
A pulsing sensation in your abdomen is usually your aorta — that's normal. But if the aorta is enlarged, that's an aneurysm, and it's worth knowing now. No referral needed. Falmouth imaging center. Results in 24—48 hours.
Important: If your abdominal pulsation is accompanied by sudden severe pain, back pain, or you feel faint, call 911 immediately. A ruptured aortic aneurysm is a surgical emergency.
Your abdominal aorta runs directly down your midline, and in lean or thin individuals it can be felt — and sometimes even seen — pulsing with each heartbeat. This is anatomically normal and not a cause for concern on its own. People who lose weight, or who are naturally slight in build, often become more aware of it. The pulse is most noticeable when lying flat.
An AAA occurs when the aortic wall weakens and the vessel expands beyond its normal diameter (typically 3 cm or greater). An enlarged aorta pulsates more forcefully and may be felt as a prominent throbbing — stronger or more diffuse than the normal aortic beat. Most AAAs are silent until they are found on imaging or rupture. The USPSTF recommends one-time screening for men ages 65—75 who have ever smoked. An ultrasound measures the aorta directly and definitively.
Anxiety can make normal body sensations feel magnified. When you are stressed or anxious, you may notice your heartbeat or aortic pulse in a way you never did before. Hyperawareness of internal sensations is a well-documented anxiety symptom. That said, ruling out a structural cause with a quick ultrasound provides genuine peace of mind — which itself can ease anxiety-driven symptoms.
An AAA ultrasound is the gold-standard test. Using high-frequency sound waves, the ultrasound measures the precise diameter of your abdominal aorta at multiple points. It is the same test recommended by every major cardiovascular organization for at-risk populations — and it takes about 30 minutes. No radiation. No contrast. No needles.
Our registered cardiac and vascular sonographer scans at our Falmouth imaging center, or brings portable equipment directly to your home. A single study is $397 in Falmouth or $597 at your home. Once the scan is complete, a written report is delivered within 24—48 hours confirming whether your aorta is normal, borderline, or enlarged — with specific measurements and recommended next steps if warranted.
The process is straightforward:
Most of the time, it is simply your aorta — entirely normal, especially in lean individuals. However, if the aorta has become enlarged (an aneurysm), the pulsation may feel stronger. An AAA can be life-threatening if it ruptures. An ultrasound determines whether your aorta is normal-sized or enlarged.
The USPSTF recommends a one-time AAA screening for men ages 65—75 who have ever smoked. Anyone with a family history of AAA, high blood pressure, or a noticeable pulsing sensation may also benefit. No referral is required to book.
About 30 minutes lying on your back while the sonographer images your aorta using ultrasound. Painless, no radiation, no contrast dye. Done at our Falmouth imaging center.
Written report delivered within 24—48 hours. If the aorta is normal, you have documented confirmation. If enlargement is found, the report includes measurements and next-step recommendations.
Southern Maine · Falmouth Imaging Center
Book your AAA ultrasound this week. Book our Falmouth imaging center — no referral, no waiting room, no hassle. A 30-minute ultrasound and written results in 24—48 hours.
Book Your AAA Ultrasound$397 in Falmouth · No Referral · Southern Maine · Evening & Weekend Availability
