Just diagnosed with a Abdominal aortic aneurysm

[gandalff2009]

Hi, I had a ultrasound scan recently as part of investigations as I have blood in my urine. They found no cause for this on ultrasound, but they did notice I have an Abdominal aortic aneurysm that is 56mm in size.
To say I am worried is an understatement, I am petrified to be honest.
My gp gave me an information sheet that states a 55mm Abdominal aortic aneurysm has a 1 in a 100% chance of rupture per year (nothing too much to worry about I agree) then it states that a 55-60mm Abdominal aortic aneurysm has a 10 in a 100% chance of rupture per year, the list goes on  stating a 60-69mm has a 15 in 100% chance of rupture, 70-79mm has a 35% chance of rupture and one that is 80mm or larger has a 50% chance of rupture per year.
Now I am wondering, as I had a heart attack 2.5 years ago and was immediately put on blood thinners, statins for cholesterol (mine is now 4, down from 10.6) and also beta blockers. if my Abdominal aortic aneurysm will stay as it is or will it still continue to grow.
I did the stupid thing of reading all I could about these Abdominal aortic aneurysm on the web and my findings have left me in a worse state than I was when I first found out about my Abdominal aortic aneurysm. I have read conflicting reports that state that life expecancy is only 65% over a 5 year period following surgery for this condition to one that states "Patients return to a normal life expectancy for their age after successful aneurysm repair.”
Also I am wondering if the ultrasound scan gives a true measurement as appossed to other types of scan such as a MRI for example.
Has anyone else out there have a condition similar to mine as I feel I am totally alone in this worry of mine. I have to keep looking at the chart to reassure myself I am not just going to drop dead at any moment
thanks for listening
Van

[nickppatel]

The only way to know if it will be stable or grow is to watch it over time by regular imaging (every six months).  This can be by CT or by MRI.  

I think the post-surgical life expectancy depends on a lot of things, including the skill of the surgeon, how well the surgery goes, type of surgery, your general health, age, etc.  If it is done properly, there is no reason you can't live a normal life expectancy, in my opinion.  A lot of the reason for the high death rate is due to comorbidities like associated thoracic aneurysms, congestive heart failure, COPD, and other conditions that typically go hand-in-hand with atherosclerosis-induced conditions like AAAs.  What I mean to say is that if you just have an AAA and no other major problems, and your surgery is done by a top-notch surgeon, I think you will live a normal life expectancy (barring any other problems).

For Jesus' sake
N

[Maxmama77]

Dear Van,
My father has an a/a in his heart/abdominal area. He didn't know what it was and continued to go to a meeting. It could've been devastating, but you two are blessed. I know it is terrifying right now, but the good thing is, is it was caught. I have heard a great deal of times that it won't be caught and then it ruptures. My dad was very depressed for a few months, but is back to his old self. He doesn't take good care of himself, but please make sure you do. The drs will scan you and monitor this and watch the bp. Try to find the most thorough doctor you can, even if it means driving an hour to go for help. Some people don't truly understand a/a, and IMO some drs don't. Also, the a/a can kind of heal itself in a way or remain stable if you are taking care of yourself. Just don't do anything too stressful, stay healthy and follow your doctor orders. I have heard of some very succesful surgeries, but I know that they are very risky. If you are offered this and feel ready for this, I think it would be ok, but just watching the a/a will be acceptable as well. Best wishes to you.

[gandalff2009]

Thank you very much for your post. To be honest, I have been scared to move lately, I have been out of my mind with worry.
your post has helped me a great deal
thank you very much
god bless
van