aortic aneurysm 4.5 63 yr. old female

[barbara1148]

I have had a cardiac cath and all tests proving I do have a 4.5 ascending aortic aneurysm.  I have begun, once again, having back, between shoulder pain and chest pains, to the jaw.  Not consistently, but enough to concern me regarding this aneurysm.  Today is Sunday, I will call my cardiologist tomorrow morning.  In your opinion, with these symptoms, should i contact her now?

[CCF HeartMD6]

By now, hopefully you have spoken with your cardiologist or another physician regarding your symptoms. The timing for surgical repair or other endovascular means on an ascending aneurysm depends on the presence/absence of other co-morbidiites such as a bicuspid aortic valve, personal history of Marfans syndrome, rate of change/growth, and symptoms. Anyone with a known thoracic/abdominal aneurysm with new/worsening back pain should be evaluated immediately to rule out the possibility of a con-comittant dissection or impending rupture.

[nickppatel]

I'd say so.  

On another note, be sure you read up on angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which have been shown to reduce aortic size when taken in maximal or above-maximal doses.