Aortic Aneurysm - Living With - Living With

As aneurysms increase in size, they expand more quickly and are more likely to rupture. Your doctor may recommend regular imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds, to see how quickly your aortic aneurysm is growing and whether you need surgery. How often this imaging is done depends on your risk factors and the cause and size of your aortic aneurysm. Those who have had surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm may need regular monitoring. In this case, the imaging studies will check for leaks and make sure the stent graft has not moved from its original location.

If you have a genetic condition that may cause aortic aneurysms, your doctor may recommend monitoring.

Return to Treatment to review possible treatment options for aortic aneurysms.

To help you prevent complications due to an aortic aneurysm, your doctor may recommend the following:

• Continue any medicines as prescribed by your doctor, including those to control other medical conditions such as high blood cholesterol and high blood pressure.
• Take antibiotics, if they are prescribed, to prevent infection of the graft before dental and other medical procedures.
• If you had a thoracic aortic aneurysm, avoid heavy lifting, stress, and other situations that might raise your blood pressure.
• Quit smoking and adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle.
• Follow all medical instructions given by your doctor. Recovery after open surgical repair may take months.
• If needed, allow your doctor to screen you for aneurysms in other locations, such as your pelvis or legs.

Learn the signs and symptoms of an aortic aneurysm and possible rupture or dissection. Contact your doctor immediately or call 9-1-1 if you experience any symptoms that may be related to your aortic aneurysm.

If you have had surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm, look for signs of possible graft infection, such as pain, drainage, or fever. Contact your doctor immediately with any concerns.