Newly Diagnosed with an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Posted by mokecronan @mokecronan, Feb 15 7:28pm

Recently diagnosed with abdominal aortic aneurysm which measures 4.1 cm. My primary care and cardiologist both downplaying it at this point due to size but still am freaked out by it. In addition i’ve had this bulge at the back of my knee and discovered there’s another type of aneurysm called a popliteal aneurysm which occurs back of the knee and those with AAA are more likely to have it. Waiting on directions from my primary care but i am honestly scared shitless.

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moonboy | @moonboy | Feb 15 9:37pm

Get a referral for a CT scan with contrast and a referral to a thoracic surgeon for a consult. Immediately. Peace.

fabiof | @fabiof | Feb 16 2:04am

I agree with moonboy. The aortic aneurysm could also be due to alpha1 antitrypsin deficiency, maybe get a genetic test prescribed. hugs.

Justin McClanahan, Moderator | @JustinMcClanahan | Mar 11 12:39pm

Hi @mokecronan, I'd like to invite and introduce you to @suzie71, @bachy, @heather1976 and @houston13 to this discussion to share their experiences with an abdominal aortic aneurysm - how they managed it and also coped mentally as well.

dianamg43 | @dianamg43 | Mar 15 1:24am

I was also diagnosed with AAA last January. It’s now 4.3 and I’m also so afraid and unsure. I do see a thoracic surgeon and now I will be checked again in 3 months. Also having a hard time coping. My cardio Dr upped blood pressure meds Ari keep my pressure low. Seems to be working. But, still anxious for my next visit. I try not to constantly worry but can’t help myself. Wishing you well.

pamela78 | @pamela78 | Mar 15 7:14am

In reply to @dianamg43 "I was also diagnosed with AAA last January. It’s now 4.3 and I’m also so afraid..." + (show)

I understand your anxiety. I live with it too. Every twinge seems like the end of the world. But you can't stay scared. I think that sooner or later, we get used to our changed circumstances and learn to live with it--for now. Let your doctor know how anxious you are. We need all the support we can get.

staceyc25@staceyc25 | @staceyc25 | Mar 16 10:01am

In reply to @pamela78 "I understand your anxiety. I live with it too. Every twinge seems like the end of..." + (show)

As I’m living with my 4.5 aneurysm and newly discovered tricuspid regurgitation w/dilated right atrium I’m learning to relax more…crazy as that sounds. Also becoming more open, relaxed listening to others share. As a Reiki master I’ve begun sending more distant Reiki to ya’ll and doing more actively Reiki on animals and people when asked. It’s so amazing🙏🌀

thevikole | @thevikole | Mar 23 12:11pm

I was diagnosed with same in 2020. It was at 4.8. I made some changes mainly losing weight and it's been from 4.6 to 4.1 over the past five years. Started exercising moderately couple months ago recheck said it was 5.9 yesterday. I'm terrified to say the least yet VS thinks the imaging may not be correct thru the doppler that I've been having every 6 months for the past 4 plus years... He has ordered another CT w contrast next week. Any thoughts or similar experiences out there?

thevikole | @thevikole | Mar 23 12:15pm

Abdominal aortic aneurysim, that is!

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