Roni's Profile

I was diagnosed with rheumatic fever when I was 10 years old and was advised it had caused mitral valve stenosis. After spending a year on bed rest I was put on penicillin for appox. ten years. Although I was checked yearly I had no serious symptoms until I was in my late 50's, when I started losing my breath while dancing or excercising. In Oct. 2001 I had a mechanical mitral valve replacement. During my catheterization the Dr. found I also had aortic valve leakage, but he chose not to repair both valves at the same time. After the surgery I never regained my energy or the stamina I had before the surgery. I have been on Coumadin, assorted beta blockers and blood pressure medication since 2001. I have gained over 50lbs, and lost over 50% of my hair which I have been told was probably due to my medications. In 2014 I had a intestinal bleed from the coumadin and had a colectomy. Recently my symptoms have become worse, I have no energy and due to my shortness of breath I am limited to how far I can walk or do anything strenuous. My cardiologist recently told me, the time for another valve replacement is very near and I am not a candidate for the TAVR procedure. I would like to hear from anyone who has had both valves replace. Needless to say I am concerned about another open heart surgery and am curious to hear from others on their experiences and how their quality of life improved after their second surgery.