What makes an aneurysm grow

For these larger aneurysms the risk of rupture is usually higher than the risk of surgery. If you have a family history of ruptured aneurysm; surgery is also likely to be advised. However, if your general state of health is poor, or if you have certain other medical conditions, this may increase the risk if you have surgery. In some circumstances therefore the decision to operate may not be straightforward, and your surgeon may advise that you be medically managed if you are unfit for surgery.

If you are being considered for treatment you will undergo tests of your fitness for surgery and the associated risks , along with a CT scan to examine your AAA more closely.

Your specialist vascular surgeon and team will give you a clear explanation of the options in your case. You will then have full discussion involving your personal choice before a decision is made. Your best interests will always be taken into account and you are not obliged to undergo any treatment that you do not want. If you are unfit for surgery at the current time, your doctor may wish to advise medical treatments aimed at keeping you healthy and reducing the risks of rupture of your AAA.

These will include treating any high blood pressure and high cholesterol and improving your fitness by treating any heart lung or kidney disease so that an operation may be performed at a later time.

Patients with diabetes are less likely to have problems with surgery if their diabetic control is good. Regular moderate exercise can also help keep your heart and lungs healthy. For further information click HERE. Member Login Suggested links:. Home About Membership Membership. Benefits Categories Become a Member. Vascular Health. Lifestyle Diet The Circulatory System.

Rouleaux Club Yearbook Introduction The major artery carrying blood from the heart is called the Aorta. Although the majority of aneurysms are small and do not require surgery, the presence of an aneurysm may indicate the patient has related health concerns that need attention. Our uniquely equipped hybrid operating rooms and the high level of expertise our care teams possess allows us to treat both low- and high-risk patients.

Many of our physicians are national and international leaders in the treatment of aortic aneurysms. Because we offer state-of-the-art technology and care team expertise, we are leaders in providing aneurysm repair options for high-risk patients. Most repairs can be done without incisions or the stress of general anesthesia, which reduces the risk for patients with heart or lung problems.

These advances mean even low-risk patients can get back to their daily routine faster. Health and Wellness. What is an aortic aneurysm? How are they found? What health factors increase your risk of an aortic aneurysm? Are there any activities you can do to prevent an aortic aneurysm or reduce your risk? How is an aortic aneurysm treated? How is M Health Fairview uniquely positioned to treat this condition?

If you have high blood pressure, the extra force pushes against the walls of the aneurysm causing it to expand. If you have been given medicine for your blood pressure, it is very important to take it exactly as instructed. Your doctor may also advise you not to lift heavy weights, which may cause sudden increases in your blood pressure. Smoking, obesity, drinking too much alcohol, and a sedentary lifestyle all contribute to high blood pressure.

At the same time, these are all bad for your overall health. If you need to have surgery or a procedure to repair your aorta, your overall health would factor into your recovery.

Therefore, it is important to:. Reduce the amount of salt sodium you take into your body. Anything sold in a jar e. Limit the amount of sodium you take in each day to less than 2, milligrams. You can track this by reading food labels.

Many products now have low-salt versions, and there are also substitutes for table salt available in stores.