DEAR Dr. Fritz,
ANEURYSM is on trend nowadays after the death of a flight attendant. I just wanted to know its risk factors. I am really worried because I have a relative who also died of aneurysm.
Hoping to hear from you soon. More power.
Lindsay Y.
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Dear Lindsay Y.,
You are certainly right. A certain Christine Dacera put aneurysm on the limelight these days.
Now, here are the risk factors that could affect the chances of getting aneurysm. There are health problems that may make aneurysm more likely. This includes some certain conditions that one is born with, like polycystic kidney disease, or tissue disorders, like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. The chances could also get a bit higher if one has hardened arteries, high blood pressure, or a serious head injury. Those are not the only health problems that heighten one's risk of getting aneurysm. Lifestyle choices can also play an impact. The list includes heavy drinking, smoking, or using illegal drugs, especially cocaine. So, when life gets tougher, stay away from alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. They only give you more problems than giving you more chances to life.
Regularly get your blood pressure checked. The problem with hypertension is, you might have it and not know it. It's a silent killer. Some people feel that they are fine -- no headaches, no nape aches, no vomiting, no dizziness -- and yet, they have an attack. This could lead to stroke, or worse, silent aneurysm. So, don't be complacent even if you feel fine. Remember that this is such a treacherous disease. It stabs you in the
back. Get yourself checked especially if you have a relative who died of aneurysm.
Stay away also from alcohol, cigarettes, and illegal drugs. This could give you an edge in your fight against this potentially life-threatening disease.
Hope this helps. Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She is the co-host of digital page of Superbalita. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, "Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz." For your questions, you may e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don't wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)