Strokes, Partial Vision Loss. Had Aortic Dissection. Taking Clonidine And Lisinopril. Can I Carry On With Normal Activities?

Hi, I have gone through your query and understand your concerns. At first you should know the aortic dissection is a serious condition and re-dissection or extension of the dissection may occur. However, it is unlikely in patients who maintain excellent blood pressure control and limit physical activity. You should follow up with your cardiologist and with serial imaging frequently during the first 2 years after a dissection, and every 1-2 year afterwards. About your medicines, Lisinopril (ACE inhibitor), clonidine (a very strong anti hypertensive) and metoprolol (a beta blocker) all work to reduce blood pressure. Beta-blockers also work if you have rhythm problems with your heart. If your blood pressure is controlled, you may ask your doctor to review your medications and to adjust or stop clonidine. Even you have a normal body mass index (BMI=23.7, 175 pounds /6 feet), Simcor (Niaspan and simvastatin) is a cholesterol-lowering medication, which holds promise in lowering cholesterol levels even more, thus further helping prevent heart disease. If you have high cholesterol levels and tolerate flushing, hot flashes from Niaspan, you can continue to take the simcor. With excellent blood pressure control and conscious limits to physical activity, you can continue to lead long, full lives after a dissection. This would include returning to most jobs, but no work in physically demanding jobs such as construction, ect… Also while you are able to physically return to your previous physical conditioning and feel able to engage in strenuous activities such as sports, you should exercise caution. Strenuous activities such as sports will increase the stress on the aortic wall, increasing the risk for enlargement of the weakened aorta or even re-dissection. Mild exercise is usually considered OK. I would agree that alcohol in moderation is permitted and usually no more than 1 alcoholic beverage. Among other things, alcohol can affect or interact with some of the medications that you have suffered aortic dissections receive. Wish you good health.