One of our Cardiologists and co-founder of LabFinder, Robert Segal, MD, was interviewed on Reader’s Digest to discuss the differences between a stroke and an aneurysm.
He’s quoted as saying:
“Genetics are a major factor in the development of aneurysms,” says Robert Segal, MD, co-founder of LabFinder.com. “Family members of patients with intracranial aneurysms are at increased risk of having an aneurysm, even in the absence of a known hereditary syndrome.” These include connective tissue and kidney diseases, and some rare inherited conditions, he says.
“If you have a family history of aneurysms you should be screened,” Dr. Segal suggests. “Unruptured intracranial aneurysms should be monitored annually for two to three years, and every two to five years thereafter if the aneurysm is stable.”
There are a few ways to help reduce the risk of developing either condition. “The two most important lifestyle changes are quitting smoking and controlling high blood pressure,” Dr. Segal says. “Other important health changes are controlling cholesterol and getting regular physical exercise. Hypercholesterolemia and regular physical exercise appear to decrease the risk of aneurysm formation.”
For aneurysm, a few other lifestyle changes can help. “Patients should avoid smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, stimulant medications, illicit drugs, and excessive straining,” Dr. Segal says.
View the original piece placement on Reader’s Digest.
