If you have experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. These symptoms most often occur when an aneurysm has ruptured, which can be a life-threatening situation:
- Clammy skin
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the chest or upper back
- Stridor, or high-pitched breathing
- Swelling in the neck
Whether you are being actively monitored for a thoracic aortic aneurysm or recovering after an aneurysm repair, the most important step you can take is to keep up with your follow-up visits. Seeing your care team regularly can help ensure you heal properly and stay well.
Your surgeon and other medical providers will guide you on caring for yourself in the future. Your provider may advise you to avoid strenuous exercise if you’ve had aneurysm repair or if you have a small, unruptured aneurysm.
Because aortic aneurysms can be related to certain lifestyle habits, take steps to protect your health. Don’t smoke, avoid using other tobacco products and make changes to what you eat as advised by your provider.
Your provider may also prescribe medicines to help you manage risk factors for aneurysms, including medicines to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Take these medicines as prescribed to lower your risk.
