DENVER, Colo. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — Many people assume that if they feel healthy, they are healthy. But some of the most dangerous heart conditions grow silently, without pain, without symptoms, and without warning. One man’s experience is a reminder that sometimes the biggest health threats are the ones you never feel.
Michael Marcoux says, “Or spinning or weightlifting.”
And staying active with his wife and five kids. Fifty-six-year-old Marcoux thought he was doing everything right.
“I would’ve said that I’m in great shape,” says Michael.
But a routine CT scan revealed something he never expected.
Michael told Ivanhoe, “It was kind of a coincidence that we found this aneurysm.”
Doctors found an ascending aortic aneurysm — an enlargement of the body’s largest artery. The danger? It can grow for years without you ever knowing it’s there.
Jason Shofnos, MD, Cardiovascular Surgeon at HCA HealthONE says, “Aneurysms do not cause a problem until they are a problem.”
That’s why they’re often called a silent threat. Michael’s doctors recommended follow-up testing. But like a lot of people … He says, “I will admit, I blew it off for a year.”
When Michael finally got a second opinion, he learned he was born with a bicuspid aortic valve … A common heart defect that can run in families.
“Certainly, if there’s a family history of aneurysm or disease in your family, that would be an indication or … that would be an indication to get looked at earlier,” states Doctor Shafnos.
Doctors say people with a family history of aortic aneurysms, bicuspid aortic valves, or certain inherited connective tissue disorders should talk with their doctor about when they should be screened. For Michael, the next decision became very clear.
“Let’s just do the surgery,” recalls Michael.
Surgeons removed the enlarged section of his aorta and replaced it with a synthetic graft. Afterward, he learned the operation had come just at the right time.
Doctor Shofnos says, “A rupture is nearly universally fatal when it happens.”
Today, Michael is back to running with a new appreciation for life and he says, “I thank god every day for taking care of me.”
Ascending aortic aneurysms often cause no symptoms until they become a medical emergency. Doctors say family history is one of the biggest risk factors. People with a parent, sibling, or child who had an aortic aneurysm may be at risk. They also recommend knowing your family’s heart history and discussing it with your doctor.
Contributors to this news report include: Marsha Lewis, Producer; Matt Goldschmidt, Videographer; & Chuck Bennethum, Editor.
* For More Information, Contact: Marlo Santano, Practice Manager II
HCA HealthONE
303-226-4650
