<s>[INST] hello Doctor, I am a 57 yr old male who suffer from Lupus associated with connective tissue disorder. I have been diagnosed to have dilated ascending aorta, which has increased in size from 3.6 cm to 4.6 cm within 9 months. what precautions do I need to take with my health? [/INST] Good evening sir. Dilated ascending aorta ain't such a good sign especially with the size expanding from 3.6 to 4.6 CMS. I hope you are under the Follow-up of a cardio thoracic surgeon. As for yourself, you need to avoid any stress(emotional and physical) and avoid any heavy exertion exercises. These activities increase the blood flow through the aorta and can cause rupture. Medical Management : you need to be taking beta blockers I had recommended you to be under the follow-up of cardio thoracic surgeon and if he suggests surgery, you should go for it Hope the information was useful </s>