Can aortic aneurysm be prevented?
An abnormal enlargement of the wall of the aorta, the main artery, is called an aortic aneurysm. The enlargement of the aorta can lead to weakening of the aortic wall and ultimately to fatal consequences. The first step in the treatment of aortic aneurysms is the elimination or control of aortic aneurysm risk factors. Some measures that can prevent the formation of aortic aneurysm can be listed as follows:
- Stop smoking: Smoking is one of the main risk factors in the formation of aortic aneurysm as in all heart diseases. Smoking causes the aortic wall to weaken, leading to a significant increase in the risk of aneurysm. It has been found in studies that the rate of aortic aneurysm of smokers is much higher than non-smokers. According to a study conducted in the United States, smokers are 7.6 times more likely to develop aortic aneurysm than non-smokers. Termination of smoking will support the prevention of aortic aneurysm formation, that is, the unusual enlargement of the aortic vessel.
- Blood pressure balance: High blood pressure can lead to an increased risk of aortic aneurysm. Therefore, patients with high blood pressure can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing an aortic aneurysm by keeping their blood pressure in balance through regular medical check-ups and adhering to their medication.
- Regular exercise and sport: Regular exercise and sports regulate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, reduce stress and have a positive effect on overall heart health. Thus, the likelihood of aortic aneurysm will decrease in people who do regular sports and exercise. However, the type of exercises is important. Isotonic exercises are recommended for individuals with aortic aneurysm, while isometric exercises should be avoided.
- Managing cholesterol levels: High cholesterol is one of the factors that can increase the risk of aneurysm. Cholesterol levels can be kept at the desired level by eating a balanced diet and paying attention to the use of medication. Thus, the risk of aortic aneurysm will be reduced to a certain extent.
- Balanced diet: A balanced and regular diet supports cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of heart disease. A low-fat, salt-poor and rich diet reduces the risk of aortic aneurysm by keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control.
In addition, it is possible to prevent the disease before it occurs or to treat it quickly with early diagnosis of the disease by regular medical check-ups for groups with certain risk factors. These risk groups can be listed as follows; people with aortic aneurysm in their family, adults over a certain age (over 65), overweight individuals, people with genetic heart problems, etc. groups.
Taking the above-mentioned precautions will significantly reduce the likelihood of aortic aneurysm. For more detailed information about yourself and to find out whether you have an aortic dilatation, you can consult a Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist.
