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Working as a first responder with an aortic root dilation?
Aortic Aneurysms | Last Active: May 29 6:27am | Replies (5)Comment receiving replies
Hello @bcbrian87,
I'd like to invite @bitsygirl, @pconkin1 and @scottbliz to this discussion as they have all discussed an aortic dilation and may be able to share some of the lifestyle changes or restrictions they have had to take.
@bcbrian87, it sounds like you have a job that is demanding and stressful - both physically and probably mentally as well. When your cardiologist informed you to not lift over 50 pounds and to monitor your blood pressure, were they aware of your work? Did they give any work restrictions considering your demanding career? If you don't mind me asking, did your cardiologist explain the difference between a dilation and aneurysm? From my limited research, it seems as though a dilation is a preliminary finding and an aneurysm is a more advanced (and more critical) stage of a dilation?
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@JustinMcClanahan Thanks for moderating. The one of many adjustments I have made is my acute awareness of blood pressure and it's affect on my 4.3 CM anuerusym. More specifically, working with your medical team to fine tune your blood pressure meds and consistently monitor your blood pressure. Diet has been a major change for me as well; low sodium, low fat intake, lots of legumes, grains, vegetables and water have helped me reduce my weight and blood pressure. I still drink coffee in moderation but have eliminated alchohol (booze not good for vascular health) - alchohol was easier give up than my coffee! The toughest change for me was weight lifting. I was instructed by my cardiologist to avoid heavy lifting-holding your breath and straining with heavy weights wreak havoc on the aneurysm. I now walk 4+ miles a day (the gold standard for healthy aortic excercise) and lift light weights with high reps. Honestly, I was scared into this healthy lifestyle-I don't know that I would of done it without the anuerysm diagnosis. It wasn't easy but definitley worth it. Accepting the disease is challenging but crucial-this forum helps. The people on this forum are me in one way or another. It's hard for people not affected by aortic disease to relate and truly understand the emotional toll of it all. The people on this forum are relatable, and they are willing to share their insight with all members in a safe & welcoming enviroment. That's huge!