Here’s the deal: with your aorta at 4.8 cm, you're in the “watch this like a hawk” zone. At that size, the risk of dissection (the aorta tearing) goes up, and while it’s not an emergency right now, it's serious enough to require close monitoring. That means getting regular imaging—like an echo or CT scan every 6-12 months—to see if it’s growing. If it hits 5.0-5.5 cm, or even a bit lower if you have other risk factors, surgery might be on the table.

Now, as for the infrared light pad, there’s absolutely no evidence it’s going to help shrink your aorta or lower the dissection risk. It might have other benefits, but it’s not a substitute for tried-and-true strategies here. Focus on these:

1. Blood Pressure: Keep it as low as you can manage, ideally under 120/80. High blood pressure is the main thing that puts stress on that aortic wall.

2. Exercise: Skip anything high-intensity, and don’t lift heavy weights. Gentle exercise, like walking, is fine but run any specific plans by your doctor. No deadlifts or planking.

3. Medications: If you’re on meds, particularly beta-blockers, stick with them, and check with your doctor about any supplements.

4. Consider Surgery Down the Line: Depending on how fast it grows and other health factors, your doctor might suggest surgery before it hits the critical point. A consultation with a vascular surgeon might be worth thinking about now, just to have that option in your back pocket.

I want you to be safe, so keep all this in mind. I’m here if you want to email me anything directly—don’t just roll with the infrared light and hope for the best. I dissected completely and suddenly at aged 50. You don't want that because you probably won't survive. Think John Ritter. Peace.