4.7 Ascending Aortic Aneurysm

I am a 166 lb. 5'10" female and found out a year ago I have a 4.0 TAAA. I think height, weight, sex and health make a differerence in what you can do. I was told the same thing--not to worry about it--by my cardiologist, my family doc, and a thoracic surgeon. It was like pulling hen's teeth to find out about restrictions and lifestyle changes, and I have learned much more from this group. And I'm still wary about lifting and pushing and pulling on stuff and what kind and how much exercise I should do. It is frustrating. The surgeon did order a follow-up CT scan next month.

That’s surprising from a thoracic surgeon, find a cardiologist who is an expert in aortic diseases (not all of them are) it makes a big difference. They are more in tune with the pros and cons in terms of lifestyle while living with an aneurysm. Yours at 4.7 is on the larger side and you should be monitored periodically, stay active but avoid any exercise that would cause you to strain too much and hold your breath, BP spikes a lot during those seconds.

If you haven’t, watch Dr Prakash ‘s videos that have been posted in this forum, he is probably one of the most recognized authorities in aortic diseases and exercising.

The main thing is to control your BP and being monitored to follow the growth of your aneurysm and any other possible symptoms. You should also find another surgeon, one that you feel confident.

Mine was 5.2 when found and I had surgery 2 months after, I found the best surgeon in Houston (my hometown) and he was absolutely a delight of a person as well as a top notch surgeon, you have the right to feel well with your Drs, don’t settle.

All the best