Exercise Guidance with Ascending aorta dilation

Posted by JZ @johnzajac, 4 days ago

I am a 56 yo male recently diagnosed with a 4.7 cm ascending aorta dilation. Exercise and weight training has been a part of my life since I was 14 and I was told the following: no competitive sports, no contact sports, exercise more cardio versus "heavy lifting". I was told not to lift more than 50 pounds - super light for me, I have read other things like < 100 #, or half your body weight which is half my body weight. My doctor said swimming, light hiking, biking but no dead lifts which I do not do. I asked about HR parameters which my doctor said 150 or below is ok. I don't lift "heavy weights" anymore, but I did do pushups, planks and BW rows on TRX which I read was not great due to the isometric exercise that increases BP. I am a good shape so this 50#.no isometric restriction is an issue. I am not sure what I can in terms of resistance and what cardio intensity is acceptable? Physical activity has been a part of my life - I am looking for guidance as these restrictions are confusing to me. Any help would be great. Thanks! JZ

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I’m 72 yo and have a 4.0 cm aortic aneurysm. I’m tested (Echo) annually and it has been pretty steady. Instead of using HR as a guide, I’ve been told to watch the Blood Pressure levels when exercising. I don’t do any heavy lifting, but when I do pushups close to my limit my BP gets really high for a short amount of time. Like 175/85. I have a Echo test this week so if I’m seeing any changes, I will report on that.

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Same situation here except I’m 86yrs and have been working out and very active since I was 12 participating in skiing ,marathoning and weight training . Have a aaa that’s been stable and still be active.Was diagnosed in September I have a taa at 4.6 Dr said I have a strong heart and excellent pumping function and they are monitoring it.Age is against me because usually over 80 they don’t want to do anything . Causes a lot of anxiety !

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