I was diagnosed with a 4.4 cm TAA of the ascending aorta in early November, 2014 afteran echo to investigate an abnormal EKG.
Shortly thereafter, I started having high blood pressure readings and I ended up on two BP meds.
This thing has never been far from my mind since it was diagnosed. I'm sure all of you can relate to that!
Fast forward to now:
After having some chest pain last Wednesday, I drive myself to the ER.
I had a CT angiogram and my aneurysm is now measuring 4.9cm at the level of the sinuses of Valsalva in the aortic root. The ascending aorta was 4.2.
Due to my familial history, I have now reached the surgical threshold and my cardiologist, whom I love, had referred me to a cardiothoracic surgeon.
Unfortunately, I can't get in until the 30th and I'm pretty frightened. At the same time, I'm sick of living with this time bomb and I'm ready to be rid of it.
I'm a 49 year old woman, overweight but otherwise healthy, never smoked, cut out caffeine completely a few months ago.
Some questions...
My angiogram also showed cardiomegaly. Is this common with an aneurysm of the ascending aorta? It seems like it would be since the heart is is trying to push blood thru an inflated balloon. Will it get better after repair?
Sneeze and chest pain. This developed several months before I was diagnosed. I sneezed tonight and the pain was intense for about
20 to 30 seconds. I'm already frightened.....things like this don't help.
Are there any forums out there on this subject? I'm trying to educate myself and I've devoured everything pertinent on Google, which is not your friend. I seem to remember reading a forum with more detailed histories and surgical experiences, but I don't remember where.
Does anyone have experience with Baylor Heart Hospital in Plano, TX?
What goes into scheduling such a major procedure? I saw another post that said they had to have cardiac cath before scheduling surgery. What is that and why?
How long should I plan on being out of work when I have surgery? I have a sedentary job without lifting.