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Profile picture for coastalguy26 @coastalguy26

Hey there - first time here on the Mayo Aortic Aneurysm group. I'm male, 68 yrs old, healthy, active and in good shape, played sports & worked out my entire life. Aortic Root aneurysm just measured 4.6cm on 1/19/26 - previously 4.2cm when discovered six months ago (Jul 2025). I have CT Scan scheduled this week 2/11/26. My PCP referred me to cardiothoracic surgeon but can't get in till 3/30/26. Put myself on CXL list to hopefully get in sooner. I've experienced occasional chest pain and pressure a few times but soon it went away so hard to know if it's even related. Still work out at gym and all seems good with that so trying not to overreact. Don't think there's much else I can do other than wait. Any additional thoughts or suggestions much appreciated.

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Replies to "Hey there - first time here on the Mayo Aortic Aneurysm group. I'm male, 68 yrs..."

@coastalguy26 besides everything @moonboy recommended, I would advise you to find a cardiologist who specializes in aortic diseases, not all of them do and it makes a big difference, especially as you try to navigate what kind of activities you can keep doing and to what intensity. (Look for Dr Prakash’s videos in this forum). Maintaining your BP under control is paramount, that’s why you shouldn’t exert in anyway while grunting or holding your breath, BP spikes significantly during those seconds. Remember the surgeon will see you before, and a couple of times after surgery, the cardiologist will follow you for the rest of your life.

Like you, I was in very good shape when they found mine at 54 yo, 5.2 cm, exercised all my life, actually it was found after an MTB accident. Having a healthy body will be your main asset when and if you ever need surgery. My recovery was very fast and 6 years later, I am as active as I was before

Wish you the best