KUWAIT CITY, Oct 8: A leading cardiologist has revealed how certain everyday habits, from drug use to common medications, may be quietly contributing to the risk of a life-threatening aortic aneurysm. Dr. Evan Levine, a board-certified cardiologist from Scarsdale, New York, shared a viral Instagram post listing ten behaviors he regularly observes in his patients that can lead to aneurysms.

An aortic aneurysm, a dangerous ballooning of the body’s main artery, can rupture without warning, causing fatal internal bleeding. Dr. Levine emphasized that while genetics plays a role in some cases, many of the risk factors for aneurysms are self-inflicted.

At the top of Dr. Levine's list of dangerous habits is cocaine use, which he describes as “jet fuel” for the aorta. He warns that even occasional cocaine use can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure, putting immense strain on artery walls.

"Cocaine is a drug that enlarges the aorta and sickens you. Don’t ever do it," Dr. Levine said, stressing the severe impact it can have on cardiovascular health.

Dr. Levine also warns that smoking is “cocaine light,” as it increases blood pressure, damages arteries, and leads to cholesterol buildup. While some people have switched to e-cigarettes or vapes, Dr. Levine firmly believes that these alternatives are just as harmful to the cardiovascular system.

“Whether it’s smoking or vaping, they all carry the same risks,” he stated.

 Though exercise is generally considered beneficial for heart health, Dr. Levine points out that intense, heavy lifting can trigger sudden spikes in blood pressure and place undue stress on the aorta. He specifically mentions the gym-goers who lift extreme weights, often putting themselves at risk without realizing the strain they're causing on their bodies.

"I’m not talking about good quality resistance exercises," Dr. Levine clarified. "But the guy in the gym who’s screaming to lift 400lbs — that’s not good."

Dr. Levine also warned against the overuse of certain medications, including fluoroquinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin, which can weaken blood vessel walls and increase aneurysm risk.

"Most doctors, let alone patients, don’t even know how dangerous these antibiotics can be," one follower commented in response to Dr. Levine's post.

He also raised concerns about the long-term use of stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin, which are often prescribed for ADHD. According to Dr. Levine, these drugs can increase blood pressure, leading to an elevated risk of aneurysms, especially in people over 40.

"In some patients, these medications are contributing to an enlarged aorta," Dr. Levine explained. "Only take them when necessary, and not for decades."

The cardiologist warned against the growing trend of medical misinformation, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where some individuals have stopped taking vital medications, such as statins and blood pressure tablets. Dr. Levine stated that quitting statins can increase cholesterol, inflammation, and the risk of aneurysms.

"Don’t listen to the myths," he said. "Quitting your medications will only harm your heart."

Dr. Levine also outlined several lifestyle factors that contribute to cardiovascular issues over time. Heavy drinking, which raises blood pressure and triglycerides, can increase the risk of aneurysms, particularly in the brain.

A poor diet, heavy in salt and calories, can lead to obesity and hypertension, which compounds the risk of developing an aneurysm. Surprisingly, Dr. Levine also pointed out that inadequate fiber intake can contribute to constipation and the strain from bowel movements, which may increase the risk of aneurysms and even cause ruptures.

The reality of aneurysm risk hit home for one of Dr. Levine’s followers, who shared a frightening personal experience.

"I was perfectly healthy at 21 and had an abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture. It can happen to anyone at any time," she said, underscoring how sudden and unpredictable the condition can be.

Dr. Levine concluded that many aneurysms and related health issues are preventable if individuals take their cardiovascular health seriously. He urged people to be mindful of these risks and avoid habits that could lead to the development of a life-threatening condition.

"Cocaine is destructive, but so is much of what we do unknowingly every day," Dr. Levine warned. "Take care of your arteries, and you might just save your life."