Aortic Aneurysms – Introduce yourself & meet others

Do you monitor your blood oxygen level with an oximeter at home? I was recently started on oxygen because I had low oxygen levels on my sleep study. I also have drops during the day. My arrthymias decreased and I feel better when I keep my blood oxygen over 90% as directed by my Cardiologist, Pulmonologist, and Sleep medicine doctors.

An 87 year old Canadian here. I have a Thoracic Aortic Aneurism currently measuring 54mm.meaured by both Ct and Echo Cardiogram. Measurement has been stable for the last 2 years. Previously I had an adominal aortic Anerurism repaired by EVAR proceedure 5-6 years ago. Five months ago I had a pacemaker implanted . Unfortunately one lead is going to have to be repositioned. Currently I am on wait and watch with keeping blood pressure as low as possible and using CPAC to keep nightly events as low as possible. Any other ideas?

Hello @grandchild,

I appreciate your explaining what SHAPE means. What types of tests were included in this study? I'm thinking that perhaps a pulmonary stress test might have been done? (That is where you blow into a device that is put on your lips while you walk on a treadmill.)

When you have the results of that test, will you post and let me know how you are doing?

BTW “SHAPE stands for Sub-maximal Heart and Pulmonary Evaluation.

It’s been a while since I’ve been in touch. I apologize. I’ve had an interesting year so far. I’ve been to the doctor (cardiologist) a few times. Each time an adjustment was made to my meds. Mainly because I’ve developed a shortness of breath in the recent past. I’ve continued in my daily walks but I seem to have to walk slowler these days. Not sure if I should push myself to quicken my pace. I just went yesterday for a “Shape” test to resolve the question if my shortness of breath, is coming from my heart or my lungs. I should know the results by the 27th of his month.

Hello @franip,

I was thinking about you and wondering if your exam on July 12th went well. I hope you received some helpful information.

I would enjoy hearing from you. Will you post an update when it is convenient?

Thank you so much, the information was helpful.

My cardiac thoracic surgeon recommended me to see a cardiologist for baseline cardiac workup. This included an EKG and scheduled echocardiogram to check out heart valves etc. You need to study all structures of the heart and check for any leaking of valves. Anyway, he has an associate who is also a cardiologist but she also does testing for a specific gene that families can carry and pass down which is responsible for causing aneurysms. It's not going to be helpful in our aneurysms but early awareness for our offspring. Early detection , awareness and being pro-active is crucial. Hopes this is helpful. Best regards.

I didn’t realize there was a genetic test for this. Can you elaborate please? Is it specifically for this? My father and brother both had aortic aneurysms but in the abdomen. My brother passed away on the operating table he was unaware he had it. My dad’s had a slow leak he had a 15 hour operation. He made it through but was never the same.

Hi, I quess the only way they know is with family history of aneurysms like parents and and siblings or genetic testing for a certain gene. It won't help us bus good info for our kids . Good talking to you.