Aurelio Rojas, cardiologist: "If the thumb touches the tip of the hand, the risk of aortic aneurysm is high"

The specialist promoted a simple test that anyone could do at home

Aurelio Rojas, cardiologist: "If the finger reaches the end of the hand, you are at risk of aortic aneurysm."

Experts popularize a simple test anyone can do at home

Viral on social media and easy to do at home, the "thumb test" brings attention to a serious issue: the health of the aorta.Cardiologist Aurelio Rojas explains it this way in the It Makes Sense podcast: if the thumb, without pressing and raising the palm, reaches the side of the hand or more, there is a greater possibility of experiencing hypermobility and, over time, an aortic aneurysm.This is not a diagnosis, but a warning that requires medical consultation, especially if there is a family history or risk factors.

Rojas makes the point: Open and extend the arm, don't curl the palm or push the fingers.The thumb is "naturally" bent inwards.If it reaches the end of the palm, it can indicate that the tissue is empty.Why is it important?The aorta acts like a "tube" with collagen walls;If this "orca" is weak, it can develop into an aneurysm over the years.Important: A positive result does not mean you have an aneurysm, just a screening test - an ultrasound or imaging test - is recommended if you smoke, have high blood pressure, diabetes, are overweight, or have a family history.

The big picture: this is how the heart warns (sometimes)

Although the heart is often heard late, there are signs that Rojas advises not to ignore: palpitations or a heart beat that is often not felt, pressure in the center of the chest (radiating to the neck, back and arms), especially with exertion;Symptoms include shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, sometimes swelling of the ankles and face, or sudden fainting during daily activities.

Rojas highlights in the video Make Sense what remains overrated: the vascular protection of estrogen in women after menopause (they dilate blood vessels, improve glucose and lipid profiles).From 40-50, if you don't take care of yourself, your risk of cardiovascular disease increases.Beware of common bias: they and their doctors can reduce cardiac symptoms.

There is no magic wand, but there is a possibility: the body regenerates within limits, and the heart forms collateral vessels after ischemia.The worse your underlying health, the more you will benefit if you change your habits today.Objective: The biological age of the heart is shorter than the chronological age.

Rojas is clear: the best diet is the authentic Mediterranean: legumes, vegetables, fruit, fish (preferably blue), lightly processed meat and extra virgin olive oil.Ultra-processed foods—even when labeled "healthy"—are generally a bad idea.

Supplements and Supplements (and How to Take Them)

Rojas insists: they are the icing on the cake, they never replace habits.

- Magnesium (citrate or bisglycinate, perfectly combined with B6): good for energy and sleep.As an indication, 200 to 400 mg/day, preferably one hour before bedtime.

- Omega-3 (EPA+DHA): aim for ≈1 g/day of the sum of EPA and DHA.With food and in the refrigerator to avoid oxidation.

- Vitamin D + K2: insufficient;examination, additional if necessary (or treatment by a doctor if there is a deficiency).

Creatine: away from the subject of exercise;3-5 g/day can improve muscle performance and recovery;Be careful if you have kidney disease or creatinine levels in blood tests.

Finger test, now what?

Do not panic if the result comes back positive: it does not diagnose anything by itself. Of course, it never hurts to check your risk backpack: tobacco, stress, blood sugar, cholesterol, overweight or a family with an aneurysm. If so, you should make an appointment with your doctor: Echo can easily see the aorta. Other tips can help prevent possible accidents. Take care of the basics: a daily walk can reduce "bad" cholesterol,oily fish can help stabilize plaque, and a good night's sleep can calm your system.

Rojas told him a clear goal: not to get his consultation.Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world, but up to 80% of problems are related to lifestyle.If the maneuver is as simple as bending your thumb it reminds you that it's time to do your heart out, blessed fashion.

Viral on social networks and easy to do at home, the "thumb test" sheds light on a serious problem: aortic health.Cardiologist Aurelio Rojas explains it this way in the It Makes Sense podcast: If the thumb, without strength and extended with the palm, reaches or moves past the edge of the hand, hypermobility and, over time, an aortic aneurysm is more likely to occur.It is not a diagnosis but a warning that deserves medical consultation, especially if there is a history of family members or risk factors.

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