HI,
I have followed this discussion, and may have posted on the first thread once...I'm not sure.
I was diagnosed with a thoracic aortic aneurysm in Nov. 2009 at 4.3 cm. It goes from the aortic root and tapers off at the aortic arch, apparently extending through the entire ascending aorta. Six months later it was said to be 4.1 cm. Measurements seemed to explain the difference rather than shrinkage, which apparently doesn't occur with these.
I have read quite a few articles written by a Dr John Elefteriades at Yale, who appears to be the
main person among many who have ferreted our knowledge about
this serious problem.
He did research according to one article where he concluded (reached the opinion) that spikes in blood pressure seemed to precipitate dissection then rupture of aneurysm in a large amount
of a group of 170 or so consecutive cases that came through his facility at Yale University's hospital. He is one of the leading if not the leading surgeon in this area.
I have long wondered whether continuing work in my occupation is wise at a pace that allows
daily rises in blood pressure despite my taking pills to control it. Non- physical work but mentally stressful. My cardiologist is way less
current on the literature in this field than I am, though he appears generally well informed on heart matters. I say this humbly having brought into his office articles by Dr Elefteriades, for example, with which my cardiologist simply isn't familiar. I have not been diagnosed with any other heart problem.
Anyone with any new information or education on blood pressure spikes feel free to help.
Any other comments of course are appreciated, and this topic as a reader for over a year here has really been helpful to me! So thanks to all who have participated ! I know that generally controlling blood pressure is the key advice given by cardiologists and cardio surgeons to those of us who have this problem.
Post Edited By Moderator (stkitt) : 10/30/2010 5:26:51 PM (GMT-6)