DEAR DR. GOTT:
What can you tell me about aortic aneurysms? Can they be visually detected? I am worried about my male partner. He is 71 and keeps physically fit by walking, biking and swimming everyday. He takes Zocor because of a cholesterol level of 225.
His stomach protrudes slightly but also has a smaller “bump” beyond that. It’s noticeable through t-shirts or when he lies flat and is located exactly where the internet information says an aortic aneurysm would be. I cannot find anything that says if one can be visually detected, though. This spot looks like a grapefruit is hidden in his stomach.
He is “medically dense” and doesn’t even know that it’s there. Looking straight at it in a mirror, it can’t be seen. I don’t want to raise a red flag if there is nothing to worry about.
DEAR READER:
To the best of my knowledge, an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is not visible through the skin because the vessel is located deep within the abdominal cavity.
Your male partner most likely has a hernia. This can be easily diagnosed by his personal physician and an ultrasound examination. Depending on the location and severity of the hernia, he may need surgery to repair it to ensure the loop of bowel that has become displaced doesn’t become necrotic (dead) and cause serious problems. Testing is especially important if he is having bowel problems or abdominal pain.
The technician should be able to do an AAA screening at the same time as the hernia screening if that is something that is still a concern. As I have said before, men over the age of 50 should be checked for abdominal aneurysms. At age 71, your partner is, in my opinion, overdue for the test.
If you are truly concerned about him, I urge you to speak to him. I am sure he would be more than willing to see his doctor to put you at ease. Don’t push and nag. Simply voice your concerns and wishes. Show him my answer to your question.
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