I have had a crazy month which started with a CT scan where the radiologist indicated my aorta as “normal size”. My cardiologist argued with him based on previous tests since 2013 at 4.5 cm mid ascending (echo) and monitoring every six months with 2019 test at 4.7 cm (echo). So off for an MRI which showed 4.5 x 4.9 cm with no signs of dissection or tearing. This is the first time they have indicated an oval shape. I’m 58 next week and it’s been very slow growing for 7 years which helped me to not even be very concerned. But, I have never been as worried or confused as I am right now. I’m not getting much more info from my cardiologist other than “we need to talk about next steps soon“ and then I have to wait a couple months to get in to see him. I need to talk to a surgeon or specialist that can give me better advise specific to my condition and to get a better understanding of my risk and timing for surgery. I wish I could be like you and not worry. But even though I knew I had it, this has suddenly taken over my every day life. I think it’s because I’m starving for good information and expert advise and I’m not getting it from my doctor. I have an appointment this month with a doctor at Mayo in Jacksonville. Maybe he will refer me to a surgeon in Rochester for an opinion. And, I’m thinking about a trip to Cleveland Clinic for a second opinion. I just would like to be more certain about whether I can put off the surgery a while with minimal risk, or I should just plan to get it done somewhere.

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