A simple thumb-stretch test could identify a dangerous heart condition—an aortic aneurysm—linked to potentially fatal outcomes. Learn how this quick test could save lives by flagging the risk early.

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Simple Thumb Test Could Reveal Deadly Aortic Aneurysm Risk, Doctor Warns

An emergency doctor from California has brought attention to a one-minute DIY test that could potentially identify a life-threatening condition—the aortic aneurysm. Dr. Joe Whittington, an expert in emergency medicine, explains that by stretching your thumb across your wrist, you can detect a high risk of suffering from this potentially fatal condition.

An aortic aneurysm occurs when the aorta—the major artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body—swells or bulges. If left untreated, it can rupture, leading to severe internal bleeding, which can be fatal unless emergency surgery is performed immediately.

Dr. Whittington demonstrated the test in a TikTok video, which has already garnered over 230,000 views. He instructed viewers: "Hold up your palm and try and stretch your thumb across as far as you can. Does it stop about there? Or does it extend past your palm like these? If it does, that’s a positive thumb-palm test."

If your thumb extends past the edge of your palm, this could indicate that your connective tissues are "very stretchy," suggesting that the same flexibility might be affecting the tissues in your arteries, making them more likely to swell or bulge.

Dr. Whittington cited a 2021 study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, which found that 60% of patients with known aortic aneurysms tested positive for the thumb-palm stretch.

How to Perform the Thumb-Palm Test
To conduct the test, simply hold your hand up as if signaling someone to stop (1). With your palm flat, stretch your thumb as far across as you can, towards your little finger (2). If your thumb reaches the middle of your palm, that’s considered normal. However, if it stretches past the edge of your hand (3), it could indicate a risk of an aortic aneurysm, according to researchers.

How the Thumb Test Could Save Lives
The study, which involved 305 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, focused on the thumb-palm test’s effectiveness in identifying those at risk for an aortic aneurysm. While the majority of aneurysm patients did not show a positive thumb-palm result, those who did had a significantly higher likelihood of having an aneurysm.

It’s estimated that around 5,000 people in the UK die each year due to aorta-related issues, with aneurysms and dissections being the leading causes. While many aneurysms remain undiagnosed until they rupture, doctors can sometimes identify them during routine tests and offer preventive treatments, such as blood pressure medication, to avoid complications.

For those with positive test results, Dr. Whittington advises not to panic but to bring it up with a doctor for further evaluation, especially if there are any symptoms of connective tissue disorders.

What Is an Aortic Aneurysm?
An aortic aneurysm occurs when there is a bulging in the wall of the aorta, which can weaken the artery and increase the risk of rupture. Aortic aneurysms can be difficult to detect, as many people experience no symptoms until the condition becomes severe.

In the case of a rupture, the consequences are severe. Aortic rupture can lead to massive internal bleeding, which is often fatal unless treated immediately with emergency surgery. Early detection is crucial in preventing this from happening.

The Link Between Aortic Aneurysms and Connective Tissue Disorders
Several connective tissue disorders are linked to a higher risk of aortic aneurysms. These disorders cause abnormal stretching or weakness in the body’s connective tissues, which can impact the aorta and other blood vessels. Some of the most common disorders related to aortic aneurysms include:

• Marfan Syndrome: A genetic condition affecting connective tissue, which can lead to an increased risk of aortic dissection—a tear or rupture in the layers of the aortic wall. People with Marfan syndrome are up to 250 times more likely to experience an aortic dissection than the general population.

• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): A group of inherited disorders that affect the skin, joints, and blood vessels, increasing the risk of arterial problems such as aneurysms.

• Loeys-Dietz Syndrome: A rare connective tissue disorder that causes problems with the blood vessels, often resulting in the enlargement of the aorta, leading to a higher risk of dissection or rupture.

How the Thumb-Palm Test Can Help Spot These Disorders
The thumb-palm test is a simple, non-invasive method to potentially flag individuals with underlying connective tissue disorders that may increase the risk of an aortic aneurysm. While this test is not definitive, it provides a clue that could lead to further medical investigation.

Dr. Whittington emphasized that individuals with a positive thumb-palm test should not immediately jump to conclusions but should consult a healthcare provider who can evaluate their risk further. A positive result could be a sign of a connective tissue disorder like Marfan syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which requires medical attention and monitoring.

Aortic Aneurysm Symptoms and Treatment
Aortic aneurysms often go unnoticed until they rupture. However, some people do experience symptoms before a rupture occurs, including:

• Chest, neck, or back pain

• Swelling of the neck, arms, or head

• Coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath

• Coughing up blood

If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Doctors may use imaging techniques, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to diagnose an aortic aneurysm. If an aneurysm is found, treatment options may include lifestyle changes, blood pressure medication, and, in some cases, surgery to prevent rupture.

Early Detection Can Save Lives

The thumb-palm test offers a quick, simple way to assess the risk of an aortic aneurysm, especially in those with underlying connective tissue disorders. While the test alone cannot diagnose the condition, it can serve as an early warning sign and prompt further medical evaluation. If you experience any symptoms associated with an aneurysm or have concerns about your risk, it is essential to consult a doctor for further testing and advice.

Early detection of an aortic aneurysm can significantly reduce the risk of rupture and improve outcomes, potentially saving lives. The thumb-palm test may be a small step, but it could have life-changing implications for those at risk.