Which advice would you give to someone who has just been diagnosed with Aortic Dissection?

See some advice from people with experience in Aortic Dissection to people who have just been diagnosed with Aortic Dissection

Advice for Someone Diagnosed with Aortic Dissection

Receiving a diagnosis of aortic dissection can be overwhelming and frightening. It is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention and ongoing care. While I am not a doctor, I can provide some general advice that may be helpful for someone who has just been diagnosed with aortic dissection.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention:

Aortic dissection is a medical emergency that requires urgent treatment. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Time is of the essence, as prompt medical intervention can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.

2. Follow Your Doctor's Recommendations:

Once you receive medical attention, it is crucial to follow your doctor's recommendations diligently. They will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and needs. This may include medications, surgery, or a combination of both. Adhering to your doctor's instructions is essential for managing the condition effectively.

3. Educate Yourself:

Take the time to learn about aortic dissection. Understanding the condition, its causes, symptoms, and potential complications can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. However, rely on reputable sources such as medical professionals, reputable websites, and support groups to gather accurate information.

4. Communicate Openly with Your Healthcare Team:

Establish open and honest communication with your healthcare team. Share any concerns, questions, or changes in your symptoms promptly. They are there to support you and provide the necessary guidance throughout your treatment journey.

5. Make Lifestyle Changes:

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a significant role in managing aortic dissection. Your doctor may recommend dietary modifications, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress reduction techniques. These lifestyle changes can help improve your overall cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of further complications.

6. Build a Support Network:

Living with aortic dissection can be emotionally challenging. Reach out to your loved ones, friends, or support groups to build a strong support network. Sharing your experiences, concerns, and fears with others who have gone through similar situations can provide comfort, understanding, and valuable insights.

7. Attend Regular Follow-up Appointments:

Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare team are crucial for monitoring your condition and adjusting your treatment plan if necessary. These appointments allow your doctor to assess your progress, address any concerns, and make any required modifications to your treatment.

8. Take Care of Your Mental Health:

Dealing with aortic dissection can be emotionally challenging. It is essential to prioritize your mental well-being. Consider seeking professional help from therapists or counselors who specialize in supporting individuals with chronic illnesses. They can provide coping strategies and emotional support to help you navigate the emotional aspects of your condition.

9. Stay Compliant with Medications:

If your doctor prescribes medications, it is crucial to take them as directed. Medications may include blood pressure-lowering drugs, beta-blockers, or other medications to manage related conditions. Adhering to your medication regimen can help control your blood pressure and reduce the risk of further complications.

10. Stay Positive and Hopeful:

While aortic dissection is a serious condition, maintaining a positive mindset and staying hopeful can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. Surround yourself with positivity, engage in activities you enjoy, and focus on the progress you make along your journey.

Remember, the advice provided here is general in nature, and it is essential to consult with your healthcare team for personalized guidance and treatment options. They are the best resource to address your specific needs and concerns.

Diseasemaps

Hang in there. Do not give up. It will be better after 1st and 2nd year. Find others who experienced the same. Meet them in real life. You are not alone. We are all the same. You are still here for a reason. It was not your turn to go yet. Learn as much as you can about AD. It will help keep you alive. Many docotrs in local hopitals have very low knowledge about our rare aortic diseases.

Posted Mar 29, 2017 by Timo Söderlund 6072

Keep your blood pressure below 120 systolic and find a great surgery team that understands aortic dissection.

Posted Jul 12, 2017 by Errol 1650

Dringend kompetente Gefäßchirurgen und Kardiologen finden. Kontakt zu Betroffenen Menschen bspw. mit einer Selbsthilfegruppe aufnehmen. Mittlerweile findet man in Deutschland Informationen und Adressen im Internet.
Aber Achtung - es gibt nach wie vor viel Unwissen auch bei Kardiologen und Krankenhäuser. Darum ist es wichtig nach Möglichkeit vorab zu recherchieren.

Posted Sep 11, 2017 by Regina 802

Take things easy, listen to your body it's your best friend and will tell you if it needs help.
Talk to someone about your fears.
Try to be positive and take on a good persona as being sad will bring you down.
Depression is one of the most common and disabling of all after affects, be mindful of a family member needing help as they will not know themselves.

Be proactive in your own care by finding out as much as you can about your condition because the unfortunate fact is that most general practitioners although helpful will not have the best understanding of Aortic Dissection.
Keep a notebook so you can write questions down and take the to to your appointments.
The most frustrating thing is to come out thinking I never asked about????

Take each day with a smile and consider that it could be a lot worse no matter how bad you think your day is.
Hug your friends and family x

Posted Sep 11, 2017 by Dan 1998

LEARN READ EDUCATE yourself FOR yourself

Posted Sep 22, 2017 by Jim 5641

You will feel better but patience will be a key virtue and you need to determine your level of progress by being very sensible and using the support of others around you

Posted Sep 23, 2017 by Christine 1400

Be strong and seek support from the very good groups around especially social media

Posted Feb 3, 2018 by Lindsay McKinney 2520

Rely on the doctors, you are in good hands. You might feel that you never will be OK again, but you will. This to shall pass <3

Posted Feb 10, 2018 by Marvinskan 1100

Remember that AD is very individual. What you read most likely does not apply to you.

Posted Jun 3, 2018 by Jeppe 2300

Followed by cardiologist . Blood work and 6 mth ct scans
My situation was different. I dissected quickly. Very lucky I live close,to hospital

Posted Jun 6, 2018 by Karhleenmc 800

If you're not already there, get yourself to hospital and let the doctors do their job. They know their stuff and you will come out alive at the other end. Your loved ones will not lose you. You will be there for them.

Posted Sep 23, 2018 by Stefan 2500

Have hope some do survive. Seek counseling and join a Facebook group on Aortic Dissection. Research the condition the doctors won’t tell you what’s going on. Keep living. Love all and tell them so. Prepare financially for being unable to work for two years. Discuss with your parter fears and queries about the condition. It is overwhelming always have someone with you at appointments to hear all the information and discuss afterwards so you both understand all that’s said.

Posted Nov 7, 2018 by Sean 900

Take it easy and in the beginning follow the doctors orders, start walking

Posted Mar 12, 2019 by Bengt 2500

Keep your chin up. It's a long road.

Posted May 13, 2019 by Chris 1600

I would tell them to not dwell on their condition, but at the same time, to listen to those in the medical field as to how often they should be checked. After tests are done, to live life as fully as possible. I was given this advice and I don’t think I would have done anything differently. Sure, when my yearly CAT scan came up, there was always some worry, but it became less after years go by.

Posted Oct 9, 2019 by Sandy 2500

Important to have immediate surgery, no time to lose!

Posted May 26, 2020 by Arne 2300

Get the surgery as soon as possible.

Posted Apr 2, 2022 by Larry 2550