back & possibly neck problems

[Shasari]

As the incidental result of a cardiac CT scan for my heart problems, the radiologist noted 'degenerative changes' in my spine in the area of focus - upper chest CT for ascending aortic aneurysm. This was in comparison to the previous year.

I've known I've had back problems from L2 to L5 for a while - lumbar radiculopathy specifically. When I was in my late 20's I had an orthopedic surgeon tell me that the vertebrae in my neck were closer together in the back than he expected for someone my age, and about 5 or so years ago another doctor told me he would not have expected the level of degeneration in someone my age ( I'm turning 52 next month), but instead in someone in their late 60's.

There's really been no prescribed course of treatment, and due to my heart issues I have not gone in for follow up imaging on my spine though my primary did recommend it 3 years ago.

I'm concerned that they noticed the degeneration in my spine during a non-focused image that targeted my heart and ascending aorta. Should I be seeing my doctor and have any follow up imaging done? I think I know the answer, it's just overwhelming to deal with multiple problems, especially given that I have the known heart / vascular problems.

Am I making a mistake continuing to put this off?


~Dave