Dear All,
Anyone experience of impact of a leaky aorta on cycling?
I had a battery of tests/MRI etc after some chest symptoms consistent with heart issues. Fortunately, the MRI came back with positive news about arteries and so on. Like many of us i knew I had an enlarged aorta and was due (at 62 years young) a check up to see how it was doing. At first bit of a panic when i was told it was moderatly leaky and to lay off training-6 weeks before Malorca 312. I did what i was told but now have been told it is "mildly" leaking. I have been referred to an aorta speccalist but earliest appointment is september. My cardiologist doesnt seem too worried but readily admiots he has no real experience of endurance cyclists/athletes. Searchs of the internet are not really helping either. There is lots of advice /stories associated with aorta's in a much worse state than mine. So i am at a bit of loss as to how intensely to train/ride espoecially given i have a week long Alps trip in mid july. The usual caveat that no one on this forum is a heart specialist, does anyone have ny experience of this diagnosis and if so what advice did you get?
Cheers
Bob
So I have a leaky aorta (moderate,apparently) and at some point will need a replacement. I get annual reviews from the Royal Brompton. I’ve been told that exercise is good but with some guidelines. Nothing from zero to hero (so weights or rowing or sprinting) when you start from nothing and go balls to the wall. But steady running and cycling is fine!
My take on this is that I can just keep going. I never go totally flat out, I always want to be mindful of how I feel and my heart etc but I just keep going.
We also have a big trip in the summer that includes Ventoux. Personally I’d just keep training but steadily rather than sprinting and, when you climb, stay within your comfort zone rather than going for any KOMs.
Again, I’m no expert but I’ve lived with a leaking aorta for 50 years so have a lot of experience of it.
