Jody's Profile

I had been diagnosed in my late 20s with mitral valve prolapse. Now am 61. Took antibiotics prior to dental appointments per doctor recommendations. Did this until 50s when American Dental Association changed recommendations urging that prolapse alone was insufficient to support prophylactic treatment prior to dental appointments: I discontinued pre treatment based on prior dentist's recommendations. Subsequent dentists also said no antibiotics needed. In June 2019, dentist implanted crown. Began getting very sick in late June. Violent coughing, exhaustion, night sweating, fevers, weight loss (25 pounds), muscle aches, vision problems, stroke like symptoms "mini strokes." Not until January 2020, after two weeks in two Boston area hospitals, was I diagnosed with a rare often-fatal bacterial infection of heart valve called endocarditis; caused by a dental procedure. Underlying mitral valve disease made me significantly more vulnerable. Valve regurgitation was subsequently considered severe when it had been mild previously. Had OHS to repair mitral valve on December 8 at Brigham and Women's. Eleven days since surgery. Painful coughing still. Overall less each day. Vitals good. Breathing easier. Multiple follow ups to come with surgeon, cardiologist, primary. Positive attitude