It has been two years. The first measurement was done by ultrasound then a year later it was measured by CT scan and then the next year by echocardiogram. All are a little different and each was a little different measurement which could be due to the type of image, the angle, the person measuring, the actual size of the dilation at time of measurement, etc. Most recently I was 4.4 at the aortic root where it connects to the heart and then 4.1 a little further up. It was first found by ultrasound which was done because my doctor wanted to look given that my dad died from an undiagnosed aortic aneurism at 85 years old. They can run in families. He also had high blood pressure and was not very active they did not treat high blood pressure very often back then 45 years ago. Anyway, over the last two years those are the tests and they are consistent with the 2022 Guideline. The doctor may try different imaging over time because some are cheaper and the insurance company might not want to pay for a CT scan, each one gives a little different view, etc. He did a complete blood panel and checks blood pressure. At you first exam he looks you over as there are signs he can look for in a physical exam that would indicate some of the genetic conditions that can increase the chance of getting an aneurism.

The pictures help show if you “just” have a dilation or if you have other complicating factors like damage to the aortic wall or lining those factors might change your situation a lot.

I live at a high elevation and trail run 5k almost daily and occasionally 10k. He thinks that is not a problem, cardio exercise is good. His only restriction is to avoid lifting over 75 pounds. When I told him my dog weighs more than 75 pounds he said he doesn’t want me to do it but at least if I do, be sure to not hold my breath. It’s just a precaution because blood pressure spikes can happen that way and might contribute to aneurism growth. If overweight, losing weight might contribute to aneurism shrinkage, that has been suggested by a small study. No other restrictions in any way, light weight lifting or body weight exercises are encouraged.

No travel, work or recreational restrictions. Maybe if you engage in extreme activities there could be, I don’t know. It will matter what you are used to doing, weight, conditioning, etc.

Please remember I am telling you about me. Your condition might be different somehow so be sure and do what your doctor thinks is best and if you aren’t comfortable with it get a second opinion or even a third opinion.

You can read the exercise guidelines for yourself too, the link to them has been posted on here.

Relax.