And I believe having the aortic valve replaced means being on a blood thinner for the rest of one's life so yes, preserve the aortic valve if at all possible. Being on a blood thinner just makes life all the more complicated.

Hello @degarden_girl

It is my understanding that blood thinners are only required if a mechanical valve is used. If an animal valve is used (most likely a pig valve) blood thinners are not typically needed. However, each person's situation might be different. The cardiologist doing the surgery would be the one to make that decision.

@hopeful33250 Oh, that is good news! My aortic valve is "floppy" and I suspect, if I need surgical repair of the aneurysm, the valve will be replaced at the same time. I am happy to know that such repair may not necessarily require a regimen of blood thinners afterwards. This "aging business" is not easy.

I’ll say aging is surely an adjustment! I still hold out hope that my aneurism at the root will remain stable.

Yes, I have a "floppy" valve as well @degarden_girl. I understand what you mean. I'm trying to keep all of my original parts, but that might not be possible for much longer! Wishing you well. Please post any updates to your situation.

@hopeful33250 I wish you well with that floppy valve and aneurysm. But aren't we fortunate that there are surgical interventions with a proven success rate so although it isn't what we prefer, it sure is better than the alternative.

I joined this group today. I am a 73 YO female and have a lot of heart issues that worry me: CAD, Valvular Disease (aortic and mitral), ascending aortic aneurysm (3.9 CM as measured on an echo). The CAD was diagnosed 11 years ago through a calcium scan and then I began treatment with a cardio and had all the usual tests. I guess I am most concerned about having a heart attack and not know what is happening as the female experience is so different from that of males. I am also worried that I will be in a situation where immediate treatment is not available, such as on a plane or while riding a bike on a trail. I am appreciating reading the experiences of others with similar diagnosis's.

Hi Laverne,
I think I would be careful of the free weights: I was told not to lift more than 25 lbs. It is my understanding that the CT scan measures the aneurysm on the bias (and will measure larger) and the echo measures it straight across the artery. To limit the amount of radiation you are getting, you may wish to discuss having the monitoring done via echos. Hopefully the aneurysm will be stable.

Diagnosed with BAV and a 5.4cm aortic aneurysm. It was found during treatment for something else. I decided I wanted a second opinion and was referred to Mayo Clinic. In 9 days I will be having a CT Scan, Echo and labs done. Consult with the surgeon will follow. I am very anxious. I've never even had a broken bone or anything serious happen to me.

Please don’t worry too much. Mayo’s heart and vascular doctors are the very best. I had a large aneurysm and even before I finished the tests like yours, I was scheduled for surgery. Not only are the surgeons so very skilled, they are also extremely kind and caring. I had no problems and the recovery was not nearly as painful or as bad as I thought it would be. Take care and good luck to you. You are in wonderful hands!

Please try not to be too anxious. Thank goodness you found it when you did. Sounds like you're in good hands now. Keep us posted on how you're doing and let us know how you make out after your tests. I was diagnosed in 2012. Mine was 4.1 cm in 2012 and is now 4.3-4.5 cm. I am going back the end of September for six month check up again. Another CAT scan or echo. Please don't worry and keep us posted on how you're doing it's good to hear from people. It helps all of us when we talk about it I think.

Hello @debbydiane and welcome to Mayo Connect,

Your concern regarding your new diagnosis is certainly understandable! I am very glad to hear that you will be getting a follow-up at Mayo. You will undoubtedly get a good work up and second opinion. Your anxiety is normal, but I'm sure once you meet the doctors and medical team at Mayo, you feel more assured by them on the right approach to take.

If you are comfortable sharing more: Were you having any symptoms before this was found? Is there a history of this type of problem in your family?

I look forward to hearing from you after your appointment or before then if you feel a need to talk and share your concerns.

Teresa