O.K. Help ! A dilated aorta

Hi everyone,

Well what a rollercoaster ride I am on!

I went to the doctors 6 weeks ago because I had 2 speech disturbances (couldn't say the words my brain was thinking) - at the same time I had what I still believe to be cluster headaches. My local doctor referred me to a 'stroke' specialist - who said that he suspected Tia's which was not unusual for someone with my heart condition - you guessed it - I said what heart condition?

In the last six weeks I have had routine tests - Bloods, MRI (Head) Carotid Doppler Scan, ECG, Echocardiograph & xrays.

Today (Wednesday) I went back for the results - good news all ok except the echocardiograph - the stroke specialist has referred me to a heart specialist (awaiting appointment).

Although he wouldn't or felt as though he couldn't explain everything the stroke specialist said that my pumping efficiency was only 54% (normal 75%) - I had a mild leaking Aortic valve and a 5.2cm dilated Aorta.

Is dilated another word for aneurysm - can anybody comment on my likely outcome - i.e. operation etc ?

I am a 42 year old male, a very heavy smoker (now ex!) and aside from the above in perfect health with no pain or symptoms!

Many thanks

Andy

Cheshire, G.B.

[Mel58]

I have the same condition. It is from a connective tissue disorder. My aortic root was 4.0 6 months ago. I have the next test shortly. I see a geneticist who will refer me to John Hopkins when it enlarges further.

[van6308]

I had the same problem but I had a 5.4 cm aneurysm. I'm a 43 yr old male. You will need aortic surgery to fix.... with a darcon graft. reccommend cleveland clinic Doctor Lars Svennson.  He is the best.....  I am 3 months into recovery and all is well.  

Good luck

Mike