Many people never give much thought to how flexible their fingers or joints are. Yet according to experts cited by HuffPost, certain physical traits may offer valuable clues about health conditions that would otherwise go unnoticed.
One condition doctors are highlighting is an aortic aneurysm. This occurs when the body's largest artery becomes weakened or enlarged. Because the condition often develops gradually and without obvious symptoms, many people are unaware they have it until it is discovered during a medical examination, reports Unilad.
A silent condition
The aorta carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When part of the artery weakens and begins to bulge, it can create a potentially dangerous situation. In severe cases, the weakened section can rupture, turning the condition into a medical emergency.
According to specialists interviewed by HuffPost, unusually flexible joints may sometimes be linked to connective tissue disorders. Conditions such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are known to increase the likelihood of developing an aneurysm.
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The thumb test
Doctors have drawn attention to a simple assessment commonly known as the thumb test. The test involves placing the thumb across the palm and observing how far it extends.
For some individuals, the thumb reaches significantly beyond the edge of the hand. Research published in 2021 found an association between this physical trait and an increased likelihood of enlargement in the ascending aorta, the section of the artery closest to the heart.
- Marfan syndrome
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
Both conditions are linked to connective tissue abnormalities that can affect blood vessels.
Not a diagnosis
Medical experts stress that the thumb test should not be viewed as proof that someone has an aneurysm. Instead, it may serve as an indicator that further evaluation could be worthwhile.
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Anyone concerned about unusual joint flexibility or their cardiovascular health should speak with a healthcare professional. Only imaging scans and medical assessments can determine whether an aneurysm is present.
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