Well, it has been a year since my surgery. My scar is a thin white line. I find it very noticeable, but at the same time I do nothing to hide it and sometimes ...Read more
Well, it has been a year since my surgery. My scar is a thin white line. I find it very noticeable, but at the same time I do nothing to hide it and sometimes show it off as a badge of courage. My pulse has not decreased and is still in the 90's resting. My blood pressure is still often low. I am still exhausted constantly. I am no longer on any medication... which is lovely. I had an echo immediately after the surgery that showed the mvr was fixed. I haven't seen my Cardiologist since November 2018. I have an appointment with him in November 2019. This is the longest I have gone without seeing a Cardiologist in years. The ocular migraines are now infrequent.
The surgery forced me to close my business. That was something I had to come to terms with. I was hired by a major corporation. I have never worked for anyone but myself before, so this has been an adjustment.
My husband and I have been on vacation. We are working on remodeling our home. I guess that is all the big stuff.
There are very few times I think about the surgery. I was shocked to realize it was a year ago! I remember how frightened I was and how wonderful and informative it was to read the stories from people who had been there too, so I wanted to stop by to give some encouragement to everyone. This is really just a little blip in time, your future is waiting ahead.
Debbie Kelly It's great hearing from you, Anna. Congratulations on your one-year anniversary. Sorry to hear you a ... Read more
Debbie Kelly It's great hearing from you, Anna. Congratulations on your one-year anniversary. Sorry to hear you are exhausted. I hope that gets better.
Meredith Bray EAT CAKE! Love this post for so many reasons. I was commenting earlier this week how few aural migrai ... Read more
Meredith Bray EAT CAKE! Love this post for so many reasons. I was commenting earlier this week how few aural migraines I've had since surgery and how frequent they used to be. I am so glad to be rid of them! I'm sorry you had to close your business there's so much to be said for making your own rules and time off.
And you are correct - a blip in time. I have never made any attempt to cover my scar either. It's wonderful to be off the post-op meds, and I hope you HR comes down eventually, if only for your peace of mind. Mine is about 74, and it's been 5 years since surgery.
And seriously, I hope you eat cake!
Rita Savelis Happy Anniversary Anna! Nice to hear from you, and I like your post, which tells it like it is. (I st ... Read more
Rita Savelis Happy Anniversary Anna! Nice to hear from you, and I like your post, which tells it like it is. (I still have a high pulse, low blood pressure, and exhaustion that comes and goes..... but OHS is also way behind me, a blip in time). Take care.
Mike Roskowinski Awesome congrats on your 1 year anniversary. Wish your heart rate would go down and you can get back ... Read more
Mike Roskowinski Awesome congrats on your 1 year anniversary. Wish your heart rate would go down and you can get back to normal but it is good to hear that it is normal to experience these issues. I always wonder if this is normal or not. My heart beating so hard sometimes. The higher heart rate. Tightness in the incision area . Also getting used to having a pacemaker cut into me and when moving arms feels weird. Glad to hear you are doing great and like you said it is a blip in time.
Catie B So good to hear from you, Anna. I hate that you're still dealing with exhaustion and I hope that ease ... Read more
Catie B So good to hear from you, Anna. I hate that you're still dealing with exhaustion and I hope that eases. I'm sorry you needed to close your business--I imagine that was a tough transition. Best to you!
Barbara Wood Great to hear from you...happy anniversary Anna!
Rose Madura It is good to hear from you Anna and I'm sorry about your business. I think our scars are badges of ... Read more
Rose Madura It is good to hear from you Anna and I'm sorry about your business. I think our scars are badges of courage. You've been through a lot. Take care.
Anna Jones Thank you, Everyone. Sending my best to you all and well wishes.
Susan Lynn A happy, healthy new year to you, Anna! ❤
Martha Diakow Hi Anna , I was a year post op in Feb . I am experiencing fatigue also . I feel fine and can’t deci ... Read more
Martha Diakow Hi Anna , I was a year post op in Feb . I am experiencing fatigue also . I feel fine and can’t decide if it is an emotional thing . This is a life saving and a life changing event . I too think less and less about it and look forward to a great life . According to Dr. Andrew Pruitt I would not have survived another year . So I am thanking God every day . Happy Anniversary and all God’s Blessings to you for great health and future!♥️
"Life is full of changes." That is what my late husband said to me when I told him I liked things as they are. He said: "get used to it."
Eleven years ...Read more
"Life is full of changes." That is what my late husband said to me when I told him I liked things as they are. He said: "get used to it."
Eleven years ago I moved to a new state. I started seeing a new doctor. This practice helps to train medical students. Whenever I went to the doctor there would be a knock on the door, and someone would say: "hello, Anna. This is so-and-so a nursing student/medical student/PA, and we would like her/him to listen to your heart".
There would be that silent moment, and then I would see eyes widen and a smile, and they would exclaim: "I hear it! It's really loud!" And then they would leave the room, and I would know that at some point in the future, this person will graduate, and will hear an ill heart and it will be because my heart taught them something of value, and we will have saved another's life. Perhaps they will even find their way onto this site.
Amid all of the fear and worry of pending surgery, helping to illustrate a heart murmur gave me a sense of pride.
Since the surgery, I go to the doctor's office and there are no knocks on the door. No students are waiting to hear my heart. It sounds normal these days. There has been a change. I will get used to it :-)
Best wishes to everyone waiting for your surgery. Have faith and peace, a merry Christmas, and a wonderful 2019.
Debbie Kelly Merry Christmas, Anna. Love your story. I hope you are fully recovered now and enjoying life. I am ... Read more
Debbie Kelly Merry Christmas, Anna. Love your story. I hope you are fully recovered now and enjoying life. I am going to the Valve Clinic on Jan. 22nd. My new cardiologist is hoping I can have the TAVR, now that they are performing it on the low risk. I am praying so, too, because I live alone and can't afford to take off long. Otherwise, I am going to see about minimum invasive.
Rob Sparling Anna, great post! Cheers to those of us — ALL of us?? — who are now quiet! Shhhhhh. ❤️💪 ... Read more
Rob Sparling Anna, great post! Cheers to those of us — ALL of us?? — who are now quiet! Shhhhhh. ❤️💪
Susan Lynn Fantastic story, Anna! Hope you have a blessed Christmas and Happy, Healthy New Year!
Louanna Miller Great news. Where did you have your surgery and who was your surgeon? Thanks.
Merry Christmas!!!
Dan Vechiola Wow great post Anna! So right on. Its great to be part of this unbelievable group. We are so enlight ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Wow great post Anna! So right on. Its great to be part of this unbelievable group. We are so enlightening, informational and strong together. Merry Christmas and thank you!
Anna Jones @Louanna Miller, I had my surgery at Houston Methodist hospital in Houston. My surgeon was Dr. Geral ... Read more
Anna Jones @Louanna Miller, I had my surgery at Houston Methodist hospital in Houston. My surgeon was Dr. Gerald Lawrie.
Louanna Miller I’m a native Texan and have a friend in Austin with Vance issues. Thank you.
ScieGen has launched a voluntary recall of some lots of the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) irbesartan due to the presence of N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), ...Read more
ScieGen has launched a voluntary recall of some lots of the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) irbesartan due to the presence of N-Nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), a known animal and suspected human carcinogen. ... The recall affects roughly 1% of the irbesartan drug products in the United States, FDA said.
This is the second ARB to be recalled. Valsartan was recalled several months ago.
If you are taking either of these medications, please contact your cardiologist.
https://www.cnn.com/2018/10/31/health/fda-recall-heart-drug-irbesartan-bn/index.html
What cream, if any, are you putting on your scar to help with healing?
Is it working?
How soon after surgery did you begin using it?
Thank you.
Willie Radl I used Mederma for a few weeks and now put it on once in a while. It seems to work well but I still h ... Read more
Willie Radl I used Mederma for a few weeks and now put it on once in a while. It seems to work well but I still have a pink scar line @ 5 months.
Sue Waterworth I used coconut oil for the first 6 weeks on the surgeon's recommendation, then changed to arnica crea ... Read more
Sue Waterworth I used coconut oil for the first 6 weeks on the surgeon's recommendation, then changed to arnica cream. At 8 weeks, my scar is very pale and flat.
Julie Fehrenbach-Cain I've heard that vitamin E is the best for scars. I plan on getting some this weekend for mine.
Civita Fahey you can use coconut or Vitamin E oil all help important is to massage gently daily if it starts thi ... Read more
Civita Fahey you can use coconut or Vitamin E oil all help important is to massage gently daily if it starts thicken and become itchy ask you doc mine had a keloid and i didnt know til 5 months later Willie mine is still pink 16 months later dermatologist i depends on skin tone
I looked it up on the computer: it is 12 weeks, or 87 days, or 2,088 hours, or 125,280 minutes, or 7,516,800 seconds since my surgery. It's amazing the calculations ...Read more
I looked it up on the computer: it is 12 weeks, or 87 days, or 2,088 hours, or 125,280 minutes, or 7,516,800 seconds since my surgery. It's amazing the calculations the computer can do for you.
I feel fine. I went to the Cardiologist yesterday because the nurse at the cardiac rehab told me that my diastolic number has been too high and I needed to see the Cardiologist immediately. I don't know why I believed her as she didn't impress me at all during the rehab sessions. In point of fact, the rehab sessions didn't impress me either. The Cardiologist said that my blood pressure is fantastic, the nurse is an idiot, he doesn't think highly of the program, and the way it is run will not prevent depression. He said he didn't blame me for quitting. He didn't think I should have started in the first place as I can walk on a treadmill without supervision. So there you have it. I am fine.
I've stopped counting time since the surgery. At this point it isn't a huge deal in my life. I have naturally turned my attention to plans for the future. It's kind of amazing since prior to the surgery it was my entire focus. I think we tend to make the surgeon our center of attention and gratitude but I really have to give the anesthesiologist a lot of credit for so effectively doing his work.
So, I just want to let everyone know that while it is really really scary, with a little time and patience, you will do just fine. Sending prayers and best wishes for all.
LINDA ROBERTS I love your calculation the exact amount of time since surgery. Like your comment how your focus now ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS I love your calculation the exact amount of time since surgery. Like your comment how your focus now has changed since the surgery is over. Hope I will be saying the same.
Sue Tom Anna, you have such a great outlook for the future. Good for you! You are setting an example for me ... Read more
Sue Tom Anna, you have such a great outlook for the future. Good for you! You are setting an example for me. My surgery is in 12 days, 9/18 and it is the entire focus for me now with ups and downs.
I have no idea what week I am in. I stopped counting. Lately my diastolic blood pressure reading is above 80. I called the cardiologist and he is seeing me ...Read more
I have no idea what week I am in. I stopped counting. Lately my diastolic blood pressure reading is above 80. I called the cardiologist and he is seeing me on Wednesday. Every time a new symptom crops us it just increases my worry.
Phyllis Petersen Were you taken off any of the post-surgical medications? After I stopped metoprolol, my blood pressur ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Were you taken off any of the post-surgical medications? After I stopped metoprolol, my blood pressure went on an extended roller coaster ride.
Anna Jones No. I was never on post surgical medications. I am still on the 12.5 mg Atenolol that I have always b ... Read more
Anna Jones No. I was never on post surgical medications. I am still on the 12.5 mg Atenolol that I have always been on.
I am at the end of my 9th week and for the past few weeks have started to get migraines frequently. My vision will get blurry, or I will have a clear spot ...Read more
I am at the end of my 9th week and for the past few weeks have started to get migraines frequently. My vision will get blurry, or I will have a clear spot in the center of my vision. I get a really painful headache which causes nausea. I just need to lie down in a dark room and not move. If I can fall asleep that helps.
I didn't have many migraines prior to surgery... maybe 1 or 2 a year. I am on the same 12.5 mg of Atenolol that I was on prior to surgery, and that is my only medication.
Is this a common side effect after mitral valve repair? I had a full sternotomy.
Diane T I was same as you, pre-surgery... a few migraines each year. I’ve been getting eye migraines ever s ... Read more
Diane T I was same as you, pre-surgery... a few migraines each year. I’ve been getting eye migraines ever since I got home from the hospital—just had one this morning. Early on I noticed it only happens when I’m overdoing it. So it’s my signal to sit or lie down and rest. I’m 6 months post-op and I’m getting fewer as I get stronger (and better at judging when to rest). Hope this helps.
Marie Myers I had dozens of optical migraines in the months after surgery, They gradually subsided in a few month ... Read more
Marie Myers I had dozens of optical migraines in the months after surgery, They gradually subsided in a few months..Luckily for me, they did not deteriorate to the full migraines with nausea and vomiting that I had as a teenager. Hope yours disappear soon!
Phyllis Petersen I've had optical migraines, but thankfully very few full-fledged migraines since surgery. I hope thes ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen I've had optical migraines, but thankfully very few full-fledged migraines since surgery. I hope these subside quickly.
Rose Madura I had the same as you with the spot in the center and then auras which gradually moved to either the ... Read more
Rose Madura I had the same as you with the spot in the center and then auras which gradually moved to either the left or right and finally went away. Then I'd get a migraine. They weren't as debilitating as yours and for that I was thankful. Like Marie, mine subsided after a while.
Thomas Brusstar I had the visual migraines infrequently before mitral repair surgery, like once a year, but since the ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar I had the visual migraines infrequently before mitral repair surgery, like once a year, but since then like every week. Not terrible, and mine almost never turn into a headache. None since surgery have. So I just chill and try to close my eyes for 5-10 minutes and the disturbance goes away. Disconcerting, but I’m hoping they subside/ get less frequent.
Last week I called the hospital and asked to be switched to a class with heart surgery patients. The man I spoke with was very nice and moved me to the first ...Read more
Last week I called the hospital and asked to be switched to a class with heart surgery patients. The man I spoke with was very nice and moved me to the first class in the morning MWF. I went there today. I met a man who had a triple bi-pass and was in the hospital for 45 days! We had a lovely talk. He said he only has 2 classes left. I also spoke with a woman who had her mitral valve replaced with a porcine valve. I had to ask a lot of questions to get her to chat and she didn't ask any question in return so I will try finding another person to chat with on Wednesday. Conversation flowed much more readily with the man. Anyway, it made the class go much faster.
It was a different nurse heading the class this morning. She didn't mind that I wore surgical gloves. She showed me how to put the monitor on, and she told me that usually she tells people what their heart attack risks are, but there wasn't much to say to me because I don't smoke, drink, am a healthy weight, and am vegetarian. She said my risks are primarily genetic... which I knew. We discussed heart attack symptoms and that in the event of a heart attack I should call 9-1-1. It is kind of disturbing to know that despite the surgery I am still at risk for heart attack.
They still don't clean the machines between users. Fifteen classes left.
Steven Methot Really? They don't wipe them down? That's... weird.
Judy Shaw So glad it's going better for you and you have others to chat with. I'm not the new kid in the class ... Read more
Judy Shaw So glad it's going better for you and you have others to chat with. I'm not the new kid in the class anymore!! My 2nd day people started chatting with me.
Anna Jones That's wonderful, Judy. I'm so glad you are making connections.
Susan Lynn I'm so glad that you're in a new class and interacting with other participants. I wouldn't worry ab ... Read more
Susan Lynn I'm so glad that you're in a new class and interacting with other participants. I wouldn't worry about the woman who didn't engage in conversation - some people can be in various stages of denial or are traumatized by their experiences. Discussing their medical conditions may be something that takes them awhile to get through. Hope you enjoy the rest of your sessions.
Jennifer John Guess I’m in a chatty group of rehabbers! 🤗
Kelly Stoll Woohoo Anna!!!!! Way to keep it up AND stay true to you. So proud of you!!!
Anna Jones Thank you, Kelly. You are very lucky Jennifer, but I think you have a gift for gab.
Mark Wilbur Even if it's not perfect, it sounds so much better than it was, Anna. You'll do better in this group ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Even if it's not perfect, it sounds so much better than it was, Anna. You'll do better in this group. I realized a long time ago that people like to talk about themselves and often don't ask about the other person. Keep showing interest in them and maybe they'll warm up to you. If not, it's their loss. I've even seen it within this forum. That's human nature. As for your own rehab, you sound more positive and that's wonderful. I'm happy that you were able to make a change. Another day marked off your countdown calendar! (Victory!)
Anna Jones Thank you, Mark. You gave me the idea. I hope you are doing well.
Diane Maher Good grief Anna, by the time I am ready for rehab, it will probably be flu season.....long sleeves an ... Read more
Diane Maher Good grief Anna, by the time I am ready for rehab, it will probably be flu season.....long sleeves and face masks at the ready 😷
Today was day 2 of my cardiac rehab. There are now 16 sessions to go. The nurse came over to me and asked me why I was wearing gloves. I told her that I ...Read more
Today was day 2 of my cardiac rehab. There are now 16 sessions to go. The nurse came over to me and asked me why I was wearing gloves. I told her that I felt it would be more sanitary this way. She told me that I didn't need to worry about germs because they are very conscious of this and take 5 minutes between classes to clean the machines. So that means that people are using machines during each class that other people have used and haven't yet been cleaned. I also don't think 5 minutes is enough time to thoroughly clean all these machines. But I smiled and kept my gloves on.
Then the nurse wanted to know why I wasn't exerting myself more. I told her I was exercising as hard as I wanted to. She said I wasn't panting. So I started panting for her. She asked why I was there. I said I wanted to be in cardiac rehab (1) with people who had had heart surgery; (2) that people on this site were saying they were exercising with other heart patients who had had heart surgery; (3) that there was a social aspect to the cardiac rehab where people discussed their recoveries and their concerns in addition to exercise that was missing. I said I was stuck in a corner of the room exercising by myself and that I didn't see how just exercising alone was going to prevent depression. I said instead of being stuck in this room I could be walking outside alone in the sunshine and getting happier results.
She said that there are HIPPA rules that prevent her from disclosing medical conditions but that she would search for people who had sternotomies and would let me know what time to change my cardiac rehab class to in order to be with them. She wants time. I will see what happens.
I'm not sure why this isn't done routinely. I mean, when you are going through something big, isn't part of the recovery being among people going through the same thing?
Mark Wilbur Here's hoping you can get into the right group, Anna. Keep your gloves on and your spirits up! Anot ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Here's hoping you can get into the right group, Anna. Keep your gloves on and your spirits up! Another day done; another victory won! (Even if it doesn't feel like it.)
Susan Lynn Anna - you can do this on your own. As soon as you get comfortable knowing the level of exertion it ... Read more
Susan Lynn Anna - you can do this on your own. As soon as you get comfortable knowing the level of exertion it takes to raise your heart rate and blood pressure, you can stop going. Until then, wear your gloves proudly! 🧤
Mary Woods That really doesn't sound inspiring at all. I hope you can get into something that is actually card ... Read more
Mary Woods That really doesn't sound inspiring at all. I hope you can get into something that is actually cardiac rehab. In the UK, my husband went to cardiac rehab and it was for people who'd had cardiac surgery or heart attacks or stents. There were only 6 sessions, but included exercise, relaxation and a talk on meds or diet or stress management.
Take care of yourself and hope things get better!
Diane Maher If my husband was to read your post, Anna he would say, "you mean there is another one 'out there lik ... Read more
Diane Maher If my husband was to read your post, Anna he would say, "you mean there is another one 'out there like you' :). My hands do NOT touch any thing that the public can touch. Consequently, my sleeves come in handy for more than keeping me warm. And if I am not wearing long sleeves, then I will lift the edge of my top to open doors or I say to everyone 'after you' :).
Using a public washroom, I have down to a science. I use toilet paper on the toilet and stall door handles, and a paper towel to turn on and off the facet and especially on the door handle when leaving the washroom. One time, while washing my hands in a restaurant washroom, I was standing next to a server washing hers, then throw her paper towel into the bin and then open the washroom door with her freshly washed hands.
I am sure you will guess that she didn't leave without learning an important lesson on hygiene and serving in a restaurant....and actually one that she had never thought of before?? This leads me to tell of another opportunity I had to 'enlighten' another restaurant server. While we were having our meal with friends, a very young server who was setting the tables captured my eye.
After a moment of watching her place each utensil down by their eating end (eew), I quietly got up and went over to her and explained that she should be handling all the utensils by their handles...and why. She looked at me and expressed serious thanks...this was her first day on the job and her boss had never mentioned this 'lesson' to her :). Thanks for the heads up, Anna...I am off to check my supply of hand sanitizer for when 'my time comes'.....and remember, you are not alone :) :).
Judy Shaw Anna, I am hoping I meet other heart surgery patients like me but I doubt it. The 2 times I have been ... Read more
Judy Shaw Anna, I am hoping I meet other heart surgery patients like me but I doubt it. The 2 times I have been there the only people my age or younger are the nurses. Stay strong, my friend. I have 12 weeks of 3 times a week to go. At the end of 3 months I should look 30 pounds lighter and 30 years younger. Ha
Debbie Chatzky Keep those gloves on and bring your own wipes too. There is a group called women’sheart.com. They h ... Read more
Debbie Chatzky Keep those gloves on and bring your own wipes too. There is a group called women’sheart.com. They have chapters in different states. They are a support group that meets in person. I find that rehab is not the place for that.
Rita Savelis I'm sorry to hear all this Anna. At my rehab everyone was a cardiac patient even if their stories/con ... Read more
Rita Savelis I'm sorry to hear all this Anna. At my rehab everyone was a cardiac patient even if their stories/conditions were different. No one introduced us, but there were moments when people confided in each other... especially waiting for class to begin. There were also just a lot of smiles and encouragment and laughter. No one was anything like me at all, but just knowing they were all there was nice. It was an exercice situation with the least amount of competition I've ever seen!
Kelly Stoll Wear the gloves and forgive me, but that nurse sounds a bit nasty. I hope she does find a place for y ... Read more
Kelly Stoll Wear the gloves and forgive me, but that nurse sounds a bit nasty. I hope she does find a place for you, but in truth the main thing is to do this for you. Panting and pushing yourself is not "proof" you are working hard. Do they help give guidance at all?!? Not to offend Anna, just a little worried for you since this sounds like if they do nothing more than hook you up to a monitor, you may want to speak with your doctor about other options.
Anna Jones Thanks Debbie Chatzky. I looked them up. The closet meeting they have in my state is 6 hour round t ... Read more
Anna Jones Thanks Debbie Chatzky. I looked them up. The closet meeting they have in my state is 6 hour round trip. I wrote to Mended Hearts. They have a once-a-month meeting at the Heart Hospital. The meetings are basically about listening to doctor's lecture, but I will look into going there.
Anna Jones Kelly Stoll, I am handed a piece of paper that tells me what machine to use and for how long. They c ... Read more
Anna Jones Kelly Stoll, I am handed a piece of paper that tells me what machine to use and for how long. They come by and take my blood pressure once on each machine. They ask how hard I am working. And then they tell me I am not working hard enough. Maybe I just don't enjoy exercising and I don't enjoy gyms. I am like a fish out of water. I figure if I am sore the next day I worked hard enough.
Anna Jones Thank you, Rita. I'll see if I can start some conversations in the waiting room. Everyone sits quie ... Read more
Anna Jones Thank you, Rita. I'll see if I can start some conversations in the waiting room. Everyone sits quietly and watches the TV.
Phyllis Petersen My rehab was very different. The center I was in was at my local hospital, which is a major heart hos ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen My rehab was very different. The center I was in was at my local hospital, which is a major heart hospital. I was with a variety of heart recovery people, including some with heart transplants. It took a couple of weeks before I started connecting with the people around me, but I was always in around other people, whether before starting, during lessons, on the treadmill or doing strength training exercises. We were told in our introductory sessions about the importance of cleaning the cardio machines and our monitors, but people were more lax on the strength training equipment. There were containers of wipes in several places around the gym. The exercise physiologists and nurses were on top of our progress and monitoring every step of the way. I hope your experience improves.
Wanda Mroz My rehab was very different... I still go to the Prevent rehab 3x a week and love it. My place has e ... Read more
Wanda Mroz My rehab was very different... I still go to the Prevent rehab 3x a week and love it. My place has exercise specialists who suggest machines to use and who monitor your heart rate throughout your sessions. As you move through the sessions you can pretty much choose what works for you. You are encouraged to interact with others, and they have a nutritionist and nurse there as well and offer help for depression. There are a variety of heart patients there as well. Patients are expected to wipe down each machine they use after getting off of it... wipes are provided, and they do a more thorough wipe down also. Quite different than yours. sorry you are having these issues.
I am in my 7th week and began cardiac rehab today. This produces cognitive dissonance for me. Firstly, I asked my Cardiologist to refer me for the cardiac ...Read more
I am in my 7th week and began cardiac rehab today. This produces cognitive dissonance for me. Firstly, I asked my Cardiologist to refer me for the cardiac rehab because I want to make sure I don't become depressed and because I wanted to be around people who have had open heart surgery. Honestly, while I know I am in the very small minority, I am not athletic and I don't enjoy physical exertion. Exercise is anathema to me. I let the in-take nurse know this.
What I didn't tell her is that I am also OCD and the thought of touching all that equipment that people have been sweating on disgusts me and I'm not thrilled about wearing the heart monitor that people have been sweating all over either. I keep wondering when the last time it was cleaned, and what germs I am picking up. It makes my skin crawl. But I remind myself that I need to do this and it is only for 6 weeks. My husband has suggested that I wear surgical gloves.
Today we tested me on the equipment. People were exercising all around me in this windowless, airless, smelly room and I was feeling claustrophobic. I just wanted to leave. The therapist working with me was saying that by the end of the rehab she will have me on the treadmill for 45 minutes "won't that be great?" and I said the obligatory "yes" but I was thinking "no". I will close my eyes next time in hopes of blocking all of this out. I'm not sure how to block out the stench of sweaty bodies.
There were a lot of people there. People are there for all different reasons. It is not just for cardiac patients. I was not the youngest person there. There are people there training for marathons too. I was trying to see if there was anyone else there who had had heart surgery, but I was told I was the only one today. No one talks to each other there. Everyone just concentrates on their routine. We are exercising separately together.
I go for my second appointment on Monday. I am giving myself a pep talk. Really, I'm not sure if I this is for me, but I will list the benefits on a piece of paper and tape it to my wall. I will see what I think on Monday.
I'm wondering if cardiac rehab will cause depression.
Susan Lynn Anna - I am sorry you didn't have a positive experience. My facility is exactly the opposite of what ... Read more
Susan Lynn Anna - I am sorry you didn't have a positive experience. My facility is exactly the opposite of what you described. It's so much fun, I've been going for 5 months and plan to continue. I strongly suggest checking with another hospital. I had several to choose from, but got lucky with my first choice.
Best of luck!
Catie B Oh, wow, Anna! Where I attended, they had volunteers who wiped down everything vigilantly between pa ... Read more
Catie B Oh, wow, Anna! Where I attended, they had volunteers who wiped down everything vigilantly between patients. Others were in my group who'd recently had surgery. And I found the staff to be lovely, encouraging people. Like you, I'm a complete non-athlete but I found it helpful to be under their care to ensure I didn't overdo or injure myself. I dearly hope things get better for you. Would it help to take along some of your own antiseptic wipes? I think Susan's idea of trying another place has merit, too, but you'd need to do "intake" again...
Judy Shaw I sincerely hope things get better for you Anna. You need it for you. Where I am going it is rehab an ... Read more
Judy Shaw I sincerely hope things get better for you Anna. You need it for you. Where I am going it is rehab and PT but it is separated. Heart and pulmonary patients are in a separate room. I seem to be the only heart patient when I go. All others are elderly pulmonary patients. I saw a man possibility in his early 70s running on the treadmill while I was walking gently around the room. Like you I'm not athletic either and having bad knees do not desire to do any running.
Best of luck on your next rehab experience.
Gil Solomon Anna: Unless your insurance is restrictive, you don’t have to go to rehab in any specific facility ... Read more
Gil Solomon Anna: Unless your insurance is restrictive, you don’t have to go to rehab in any specific facility. You could look around and take the doctor’s prescription to someplace else.
Mark Wilbur Anna, those of us who have followed your journey are aware of how you investigate your resources. Yo ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Anna, those of us who have followed your journey are aware of how you investigate your resources. You may want to do that now, too. There may be another facility near you that is better suited to your needs and emotional state. Wherever you do your rehab, stay focused on your goals, encouraged by what others have shared here of how it has helped them. I had to laugh at myself as I had a flashback to my first day at Army boot camp: a skinny, underweight 21 year old who was drafted and wanted to be back at college, not being forced into weeks of vigorous athletic routine. (But, I survived and was better for it.) You mention the germy equipment... my wife would not be thrilled with that, either. By law, every piece of equipment is supposed to be sanitized after each person's use. Ask the staff there about that, and stay aware of what goes on around you and see if it’s being done. If you don’t have a problem eating in restaurants, you shouldn’t have a problem here, either. The way you report it, the surroundings don’t sound that great, and if you think that might depress and discourage you, I agree with the others who encourage you to find another facility. You shouldn’t have to dread going to rehab/pt. Good luck, Anna. You’ve already overcome a lot, so now you want to keep it going! I’ve observed before that you are a fighter. I think you’ll do it this time, too.
Anna Jones Thank you, everyone. This is the only cardiac rehab that is in network with my insurance. I'm kind ... Read more
Anna Jones Thank you, everyone. This is the only cardiac rehab that is in network with my insurance. I'm kind of stuck with this one. I will pull up my big girl pants and deal with it.
Anna Jones Mark Wilbur, I will keep your boot camp story in mind every time I go there. It is a perfect analogy ... Read more
Anna Jones Mark Wilbur, I will keep your boot camp story in mind every time I go there. It is a perfect analogy. Luckily I am female because had I been drafted my husband (who is retired air force and loved it) likes to tell me I would have had a dishonorable discharge.
Anna, when I go to the gym I grab a couple wet wipes and keep them in my pockets. If I am riding a bi ... Read more
Anna, when I go to the gym I grab a couple wet wipes and keep them in my pockets. If I am riding a bike or anything with a handle I put the wet wipe between my hand and the machine. Also, many people bring towels to sit on. Call me crazy, but it eases my mind.
Valerie Herndon-Vitarella Where I went, we each wiped down the equipment right after we used it with peroxide wipes. The first ... Read more
Valerie Herndon-Vitarella Where I went, we each wiped down the equipment right after we used it with peroxide wipes. The first week I went in the morning and the class was pretty full. Going after work around 5pm, there were usually only 2 or 3 other people there other than the employees, so you might see if there is a less crowded time slot. It was pretty much everyone just doing their own thing. Most of the people I met had had a stent or heart attack and not OHS.
Kelly Stoll Anna, hang in there. Don't be afraid to tell the nurse about OCD. They had wipes where I was and were ... Read more
Kelly Stoll Anna, hang in there. Don't be afraid to tell the nurse about OCD. They had wipes where I was and were very conscious of cleaning equipment, even when patients were asked to also. They may have protocols that you aren't seeing. Find out. As for the gloves, why not? If it helps, do it! And remember above all else you are there for you!!! Even though it feels at times, especially when you are starting, like the whole room is watching you... in truth they are just focused on themselves. Don't worry about what others do or where they are at. They are correct about the 45 mins. And as many times as you don't want to go, you will also feel proud of what you did accomplish by the time you leave. Best wishes and hang in there.
I was sitting at a restaurant at a mall. This restaurant had an outdoor seating area that was separated from the parking lot by a picket fence. Tom Hanks ...Read more
I was sitting at a restaurant at a mall. This restaurant had an outdoor seating area that was separated from the parking lot by a picket fence. Tom Hanks came and sat down at the table beside mine. He looked over at me and said: "that's a very impressive scar".
Debbie Chatzky Could it mean you will be in a documentary hosted by Tom Hanks about heart valve surgery and afterwar ... Read more
Debbie Chatzky Could it mean you will be in a documentary hosted by Tom Hanks about heart valve surgery and afterwards he will take you out for coffee?
Anna Jones Wouldn't that be nice, Debbie?! I feel so much better knowing that Tom Hanks likes my scar.
Thomas Brusstar Awesome! I had really intense dreams in the hospital. Not sure why. The general anesthesia, the or ... Read more
Thomas Brusstar Awesome! I had really intense dreams in the hospital. Not sure why. The general anesthesia, the oral opioids, one of the drugs ( but I’m still on small amiodarone for another 2 weeks, don’t have them any more)? They were interesting, only a few times scary. Mostly weird or funny.
I seem to have turned a happy corner. My resting heart rate is now between 85 and 98 bpm. I am able to walk without raising my pulse past 115 bpm. This is ...Read more
I seem to have turned a happy corner. My resting heart rate is now between 85 and 98 bpm. I am able to walk without raising my pulse past 115 bpm. This is major! My chest feels tight but doesn't really hurt unless I do something silly. My blood pressure cuff is still showing the arrhythmia symbol. I wish that would go away as it makes me nervous. I stopped taking my 3.125 mg Carvedilol 2 days ago. I never started the calcium blocker. I still have to eat a lot of salt occasionally to get my blood pressure into a more normal range. I can bend easily.
So saying, yesterday I noticed that because my dog likes to lie in the corner of the floor where the projection spring door stop is situated, he had knocked it out of the wall. I figured it would be an easy fix to screw it back into the wall as the screw is still sticking out of the wall. I sat down on the tile floor and began to twist it. It did not re-attach. I then lay prone on the floor to get a better look at what was going on. This is when I made two discoveries: (1) you cannot re-attach a spring door stop once it is unattached to it's screw; and (2) I cannot stand up from a prone position on a tile floor at 6 weeks post-op!
I think we should talk about Life Alert on this site.
Diane Maher Your dry humour, Anna, always brings a chuckle.🙂
Susan Lynn This is such great news, Anna! It's amazing how recovery can involve both small steps and giant le ... Read more
Susan Lynn This is such great news, Anna! It's amazing how recovery can involve both small steps and giant leaps forward!
I also got a laugh about your door stop encounter. Don't worry - all in good time. You probably only need the 30- day Life Alert trial offer! 😉
Chris Purvis Anna so glad you are doing better. You went before me by 10 days and a block away from my surgical si ... Read more
Chris Purvis Anna so glad you are doing better. You went before me by 10 days and a block away from my surgical site so your surgery and recovery have been very close to home. Prayers for continued sucess in your recovery!
Well, I know not to get too confident, but I am having a good day... finally. Blood pressure is still really low and pulse is still really high, yet it doesn't ...Read more
Well, I know not to get too confident, but I am having a good day... finally. Blood pressure is still really low and pulse is still really high, yet it doesn't seem to be as big a problem today. I actually had enough energy to go to the bank and to a restaurant for lunch. This is my first non-medical outing and it was lovely.
I also had enough energy to schedule cardiac rehab. My first session is August 3, when they will do the intake stuff.
My Cardiologist's partner called to change my medication because he doesn't like how low my blood pressure is going on the beta blocker. He ordered a calcium blocker instead. That doesn't sound like a good idea with my severe osteoporosis so I left a message with my Endocrinologist's nurse asking if I can take it. I am still waiting to hear back.
This is the most I have done in an entire month! Anway, just to let people know: these good days are wonderful and give one hope.
Sending prayers that everyone is having a good day.
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear things are going well for you Anna! Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing your e ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Glad to hear things are going well for you Anna! Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Mark Wilbur It's taken some time, but it finally got here.. the "good day!" And, more to come... Happy for you, ... Read more
Mark Wilbur It's taken some time, but it finally got here.. the "good day!" And, more to come... Happy for you, Anna!
Anna Jones Thank you, Mark Wilbur. I hope all is well on your end.
Helen Daw Good to hear you had a good day. Just remember it is a slow recovery and it takes time. I am sox mont ... Read more
Helen Daw Good to hear you had a good day. Just remember it is a slow recovery and it takes time. I am sox months post op and still have bad days.
Catie B I hope there are many, many more good days coming straight your way, Anna! Hoping the med change wil ... Read more
Catie B I hope there are many, many more good days coming straight your way, Anna! Hoping the med change will help lots. I continue to be so glad you're in with a better cardiologist now!
Diane Maher What a tough and frustrating slog you have endured....and overcome!! I really hope Anna that this ... Read more
Diane Maher What a tough and frustrating slog you have endured....and overcome!! I really hope Anna that this is only the beginning of many more good days coming your way...you definitely deserve it!!
Susan Lynn Anna - That is so great! Terrific to read that you're having a good day! There will be more on th ... Read more
Susan Lynn Anna - That is so great! Terrific to read that you're having a good day! There will be more on the way and soon, they'll all be good! Continued success! 💗
Kim Lonergan I’m so happy to hear you are feeling better and feeling strong enough to go out on your own. How is ... Read more
Kim Lonergan I’m so happy to hear you are feeling better and feeling strong enough to go out on your own. How is your low blood pressure and does it make you dizzy and tired? I am 3 weeks post op and my blood pressure is also very low with high heart rate. My cardiologist put me back on metoprolol twice a day but so far it hasn’t helped, except that I feel dizzy a lot. Very low energy! Still sore which I thought might be getting better but I guess it takes time. I will be interested to know how the calcium blocker works for you!
Anna Jones Kim Lonergan, my blood pressure is around 85/57. Sometimes lower, sometimes higher. Yes, it makes m ... Read more
Anna Jones Kim Lonergan, my blood pressure is around 85/57. Sometimes lower, sometimes higher. Yes, it makes me very dizzy and tired. I sleep a lot. My pulse is between 100 and 115 when sitting. It goes to 120 to 125 when just taking a few steps or doing something simple. It goes higher the more energy I expend. I don't know why I haven't been put on Metoprolol.
Today I have a headache. My chest feels very tight. I am still experiencing arrhythmia. I go back to the Cardiologist on 8/8 and I start cardiac rehab on 8/3.
Kim Lonergan Sounds very similar to mine. My blood pressure is usually 87/60 or slightly higher. Pulse always 110- ... Read more
Kim Lonergan Sounds very similar to mine. My blood pressure is usually 87/60 or slightly higher. Pulse always 110-120 resting but anytime I’m up it jumps up to 130 or higher. It makes me nervous as my pulse was very low prior to surgery and I feel like my heart is beating hard all the time. Cardiac rehab called to get insurance info. I hope to go for orientation first part of August. Hope to hear from you about how you are doing in rehab once you get started. Take care!
Kelly Stoll How wonderful Anna. Enjoy the good. It will help carry you through the bad days.
Bonnie Stone-Hope So happy to hear that you are now feeling much better.
Hi Everyone,
My mind has been working again and I have this question:
I notice that everyone who has had heart surgery is taking Warfarin/Coumadin as ...Read more
Hi Everyone,
My mind has been working again and I have this question:
I notice that everyone who has had heart surgery is taking Warfarin/Coumadin as their blood thinner and they need to have their INR checked and within a certain level.
Whenever my husband has had a stent put in he has been put on Effient or Brilinta blood thinners, both of which prevent blood clots and he has never had his INR checked.
Why aren't heart surgery patients given the option to use Effient or Brilinta? Why is only Warfarin used?
Effient and Brilinta are anti platelet drugs. I think they are a little different than blood thinners ... Read more
Effient and Brilinta are anti platelet drugs. I think they are a little different than blood thinners.
Janet Skinner I was told by my physicians that Warfarin is prescribed for mechanical valves (lifetime prescription) ... Read more
Janet Skinner I was told by my physicians that Warfarin is prescribed for mechanical valves (lifetime prescription); warfarin and/or aspirin for bioprosthetic valves ... usually for three months ... sometimes aspirin for life. The research studies for the new anticoagulants were not done of patients with valve issues. Therefore, not FDA approved.
I had a family physician at a walk-in clinic urge me to try the new anticoagulants. I said "No. Not approved. And I'm not signing up for the research." :-)
If you want to read more, see this link. It's detailed!
https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2015/05/18/09/58/anticoagulation-for-valvular-heart-disease
Valvular heart disease (VHD) is a common contributor to cardiac morbidity and mortality.1-3 Current data estimate the overall prevalence of VHD in the United States to be 2.5%, with prevalence estimates in those over the age of 75 to be as high as 13.3%.4
Nancy Surprenant Takahashi I was on warfarin in the hospital and a couple of months after, I was told it is hospital procedure. I than was bridged to Eliquis, I had a repair of my mitral valve. If you had a replacement valve they use warfarin.
Peggy Whitecotton Those blood thinners cannot be used on patients that had valve replacements only warfarin for mechani ... Read more
Peggy Whitecotton Those blood thinners cannot be used on patients that had valve replacements only warfarin for mechanical valves and aspirin for tissue valves. Warfarin is the only med requires INR checks the other blood thinners do not
Hi Everyone, What has been your experience with cardiac rehab: is the program designed specifically for you, or does everyone get the same standard routine? ...Read more
Hi Everyone, What has been your experience with cardiac rehab: is the program designed specifically for you, or does everyone get the same standard routine?
Susan Lynn Anna - I don't know if your experience will be the same as mine, but my class was on a rotation of t ... Read more
Susan Lynn Anna - I don't know if your experience will be the same as mine, but my class was on a rotation of the same machines and free weights. What was different was the treadmill speed / incline, size of the weights, resistance on the bike, etc. based on each participant's individual strength and recovery. As we reached certain levels of ability, we started to incorporate the rowing machine.
You're wearing a heart monitor the whole time and your blood pressure is taken 3 times during each session. If they detect you are overdoing it, they will make you rest for awhile. I felt very safe in that environment that's why I still go. I hope you enjoy it!
Anna Jones Thank you. I have severe osteoparosis and am limited to what type of exercise I can do. I need a prog ... Read more
Anna Jones Thank you. I have severe osteoparosis and am limited to what type of exercise I can do. I need a program that understands this and takes it into account or I might suffer bone fractures.
Susan Lynn Anna - You just need to make the staff aware at your initial visit. They will tailor the plan for y ... Read more
Susan Lynn Anna - You just need to make the staff aware at your initial visit. They will tailor the plan for you. If you don't feel comfortable at any time during a session, just stop. Like every stage of our heart journey, we are our own best advocates. Nobody knows you better than you do. 😊💖
Adam Pick Anna, My experience with Cardiac Rehab was a "game changer" during my recovery. So many benefits. I ... Read more
While the patient benefits of attending cardiac rehab after heart valve surgery are well documented, the utility of these post-operative programs remains disapp
Michael Meyer Anna:
I agree with Adam completely, highly recommend cardiac rehab. Mine was designed specifically f ... Read more
Michael Meyer Anna:
I agree with Adam completely, highly recommend cardiac rehab. Mine was designed specifically for my needs.
Janet Skinner Hi Anna. I too, have osteoporosis and you are right: there are some exercises we should NOT be doing. ... Read more
Janet Skinner Hi Anna. I too, have osteoporosis and you are right: there are some exercises we should NOT be doing. I wasn't able to start cardiac rehab after my surgery because I had 4 1/2 months of abnormal cardiac rhythms. Once that was finally addressed, I started walking on my own. I worked with a private physiotherapist, and then started a group chair/standing exercise program; also did some resistance band work.
After a few weeks, I felt strong enough to move up to the next class (a stretch and balance class)- but then I had a 3 year bone density - osteoporosis is severe now! I agreed to have an injection of bone building medication and I found an Osteofit class at a local rec centre. The instructor has special training with exercises for people with osteoporosis and she is recertified every three years. And there is an aerobic component to the hour long class.
In the mean time, the gym that was offering cardiac rehab closed in our city and it the rehab is no longer available here!!!
I'm walking every day and even taking a line dancing class for lungs! I am still dealing with fatigue and some shortness of breath but NOTHING like pre-surgery. And I'm feeling stronger than I have in a few years. Have a follow-up with my electrophysiologist August 1st.
Do your research and find out what is best for your situation. But do exercise.
Best wishes.
Kelly Stoll Hi Anna. My rehab team designed the program around my abilities. Since I didn't work out a lot before ... Read more
Kelly Stoll Hi Anna. My rehab team designed the program around my abilities. Since I didn't work out a lot before surgery, we have stuck mostly to treadmill and light weights. I learned it is a process, which meade me feel intimidated at first. The staff though are wonderful and I will actually miss them, when I finish rehab at the end of this month.
Best wishes and may all go well for your next step in the healing journey.
Anna Jones Janet Skinner, that's really cool. I looked up Osteofit where I live, but there isn't anything like i ... Read more
Anna Jones Janet Skinner, that's really cool. I looked up Osteofit where I live, but there isn't anything like it.
Marianne Charters I just had my initial cardiac rehab appointment yesterday. They spent so much time evaluating everyth ... Read more
Marianne Charters I just had my initial cardiac rehab appointment yesterday. They spent so much time evaluating everything from my physical and psychological status. I was impressed. It’s all tailored to my needs. I already walk a lot but also wanted to work on my arm strength. I will probably go twice a week till back to work ( in 4 weeks)and then see how it goes
Anna Jones Thank you, Everyone. I am still waiting to hear from them.
Rose Madura Because of all of my complications, I did not have cardiac rehab. I'm walking and exercising daily a ... Read more
Rose Madura Because of all of my complications, I did not have cardiac rehab. I'm walking and exercising daily and feel great 15 months later.
Rita Savelis There is a standard program but it is definitely worked around you and your abilities. One of the pos ... Read more
Rita Savelis There is a standard program but it is definitely worked around you and your abilities. One of the positive things about rehab is seeing all the other patients and feeling part of the group. In many ways this is more important than the exercice you do there. Rehab can also give confidence to those who are afraid to work out too hard, and give a push to those who were never used to exercising. There are all kinds of patients there. Psychologically it's very helpful.
Wanda Mroz I loved cardiac rehab. I still go for exercise there three years later in their Prevent program,. E ... Read more
Wanda Mroz I loved cardiac rehab. I still go for exercise there three years later in their Prevent program,. Each person is monitored and wears a heart monitor. They will figure out what your limitations are and you’ll have a program that will work for you. The important part is getting exercise, getting monitored throughout. You are also with people who have been thru similar experiences which helps as well. I recommend!💞
For weeks I have been sucking into my incentive spirometer only to have it reach 1500 ml at my best. Clearly it is broken. There can be no other explanation. ...Read more
For weeks I have been sucking into my incentive spirometer only to have it reach 1500 ml at my best. Clearly it is broken. There can be no other explanation. And I told this to my husband this morning.
Being a man, he wants to fix it. "Let me try it", he says. "What do I have to do?"
So we go to the kitchen sink and I wash it. And then I give him instructions to suck in like a straw and see how high the little plastic blue thing will go. "But this is very hard, and it doesn't go up very high because it is broken."
Well, he starts sucking into the mouth piece and the stupid blue thing goes right up to 4000 ml. He gives it back to me, he makes a muscle, and now he is strutting around the house asking "Who da man?!"
Lisa McLaughlin Ha! Did you say something to him about some people being "full of hot air"? ;)
Rose Madura Let's face it. We were all given broken ones!
Phyllis Petersen Hahaha! Have you mentioned your issues to your doctor? There may be something that can be done to imp ... Read more
Phyllis Petersen Hahaha! Have you mentioned your issues to your doctor? There may be something that can be done to improve your numbers.
Civita Fahey I didn't even get one after my surgery. the nurses said they have proof that taking deep breaths ever ... Read more
Civita Fahey I didn't even get one after my surgery. the nurses said they have proof that taking deep breaths every 15 min is the same as the spirometer.. So, that's what I did and I had no issues.. Do the best you can, as long as you feel ok, it should be fine.
Jim Harvey As Nigel once said, "It goes to eleven..."
Diane Maher I have been using mine pre-op and found some tips on you-tube that have helped me increase my numbers ... Read more
Diane Maher I have been using mine pre-op and found some tips on you-tube that have helped me increase my numbers: raise the spirometer to eye level, keep your tongue flat under the mouth piece and exhale very deeply before putting mouth piece in to inhale.
I went to see my new Cardiologist, Dr. F today. He is a very no nonsense, straightforward kind of doctor. He answered my questions:
1. Yes, I should be ...Read more
I went to see my new Cardiologist, Dr. F today. He is a very no nonsense, straightforward kind of doctor. He answered my questions:
1. Yes, I should be in cardiac rehab. He has sent through a referral for it. I should hear from them soon.
2. He has put me on the lowest dosage of Carvedilol. I am to take it every 12 hours as needed and not take it if it isn't needed for my pulse. It will not hurt me to start and stop it. If it brings my blood pressure down too low, I am to eat lots of salt, which will raise my BP. I am also to drink more water. I had thought I was drinking a lot already, but my husband chimed in and said I wasn't drinking enough. I didn't want to tell the doctor that you can't always trust my husband's opinions.
3. I wasn't put on a blood thinner because I don't need it. I would have needed it if I had experienced a-fib, but since I didn't and I had a repair, I don't need to worry about blood clots. We discussed that I am vegetarian and I have been avoiding Vitamin K. He asked me what I could possibly have been eating (answer: white and red food). He told me to go back to eating all my usual foods. That makes me very happy because this has been difficult and I've been eating a lot of stuff I don't like.
4. He said that even though my heart is hurting from beating so fast, I am not at risk for a heart attack and I shouldn't worry about it. He said cardiac rehab will take care of my fears and time will take care of my fast pulse, which is normal after this type of surgery.
5. He told me to eat more and that I am looking pale. He asked me if I am anemic, and I said yes, but he said the last blood test shows it is almost resolved.
6. He asked if I am sleeping a lot. I said I was because my heart hurts. He said it could be a sign of depression. I said I didn't think I was depressed, my heart hurt and sleeping helped bring my pulse down and low BP made me feel sick. He said I shouldn't be ashamed if I get depressed because 35% of heart patients do. I said I would ask for a referral to a therapist if it happens, but I didn't think it had happened. He asked if I knew what it feels like to be depressed, so I told him I had asked about it on this board and I was pretty confident I would recognize it. Now that I know I am not going to have a heart attack when my chest gets tight and starts stabbing me and my pulse soars over 130 bpm, I will resist going to bed.
7. He said that the medication that Dr. T prescribed was turned down by my insurance company because it is for patients who are in heart failure and I am not in heart failure. He said it was a good thing it was denied.
On the whole I feel much better having my questions answered and knowing I am not going to die suddenly of a heart attack like my late husband did, and that my low BP and high pulse are normal after this type of surgery and my heart and veins can handle it.
Mark Wilbur Whew... and a big sigh of relief, Anna! You landed on both feet with this doctor. Life looks much be ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Whew... and a big sigh of relief, Anna! You landed on both feet with this doctor. Life looks much better for you today! (And tomorrow!)
LINDA ROBERTS Glad the cardiologist answered all your questions
and resolved some of the fear after heart surgery.
Susan Lynn This is such fantastic news!!! I'm so happy for you, Anna. You're going to love rehab - you'll fee ... Read more
Susan Lynn This is such fantastic news!!! I'm so happy for you, Anna. You're going to love rehab - you'll feel energized after a bit of exercise and interaction with the other participants. I finished my 12 weeks, but now go twice a week on a maintenance program. There are patients there who have continued going for years!
Best of luck - I think you're going to see great progress in the coming weeks. ❤
Chris Purvis Anna I’m so happy for you! That’s the best reading I’ve done all day today. Your healing should ... Read more
Chris Purvis Anna I’m so happy for you! That’s the best reading I’ve done all day today. Your healing should move forward at a quick pace going forward. Super super glad you got a new Doc that knows how to treat you.
Judy Shaw I'm so happy for you, Anna. I know you are feeling better now since you have answers.
Darlene Smith Outstanding!!! So glad you found some answers. And here is to the start of a good relationship!
Diane Maher I know if I had to fill out a survey from the previous cardiologist's office, I would definitely be b ... Read more
Diane Maher I know if I had to fill out a survey from the previous cardiologist's office, I would definitely be bringing his attention to your new Doc's comment about the medication he was trying to prescribe and why it had been turned down by the insurance co.
Yikes!
Kim Lonergan So happy you found answers. I see my cardiologist on Monday but I have the same problems so you have ... Read more
Kim Lonergan So happy you found answers. I see my cardiologist on Monday but I have the same problems so you have given me reassurance that these symptoms are part of our healing process. I know this helps put your mind at ease. Best wishes on your road to recovery.
Dan Vechiola Great news and a lesson for all of us! If you are not feeling comfortable it really is ok to go some ... Read more
Dan Vechiola Great news and a lesson for all of us! If you are not feeling comfortable it really is ok to go somewhere else. As I was told on this board, we are the engineers of this journey train!! (thanks Chris) haha
Catie B I'm so very, very glad you have this new cardiologist on board. Peace of mind is with a mint!!
Bill Gillam Information reduces stress. At least for me.
Rita Savelis I'm glad that some of your fears were alleviatd by a doctor taking the time to answer questions and s ... Read more
Rita Savelis I'm glad that some of your fears were alleviatd by a doctor taking the time to answer questions and share information. Knowledge is power, and can really help you feel more at ease. Take care, Anna
Penelope Bodek Wonderful news and great information. Thanks so much!
Steve Farthing Glad to hear the good outcome. So now I am thinking of a new cardiologist, too. Although my current ... Read more
Steve Farthing Glad to hear the good outcome. So now I am thinking of a new cardiologist, too. Although my current one is not nearly as strange as your previous one.
Jim Harvey Wow, great to have a helpful doctor isn't it?!?! I can't recommend cardiac rehab enough. About 3-4 ... Read more
Jim Harvey Wow, great to have a helpful doctor isn't it?!?! I can't recommend cardiac rehab enough. About 3-4 weeks post-surgery my resting heart rate was in the low 90's; since then (I go 3x a week, have been now around 25 times) my resting heart rate is in the high 70's.
Anna Jones Oh, great news Jim Harvey. My resting heart rate is in the low 100's and it makes my heart hurt. I ... Read more
Anna Jones Oh, great news Jim Harvey. My resting heart rate is in the low 100's and it makes my heart hurt. I am looking forward to getting my pulse down to a more normal level.
I was just told that I got approval from my insurance company to change cardiologists. I see Dr F tomorrow. I have hope that I will get necessary medication ...Read more
I was just told that I got approval from my insurance company to change cardiologists. I see Dr F tomorrow. I have hope that I will get necessary medication and my questions answered.
I also got a survey from Dr T's & Dr L's office asking how my experience was. I wonder if I should answer. I don't really think they care.
Judy Shaw That's great, Anna. I hope things go well for you with the new cardiologist.
Alina FH Good luck, Anna! I hope it goes well! I am sorry you have to go through this!
Ralph Thompson Definitely should answer them. Be nice but thorough so maybe one person there will get it and maybe b ... Read more
Ralph Thompson Definitely should answer them. Be nice but thorough so maybe one person there will get it and maybe be more respectful to someone in the future. Good Luck with your new Dr.
Mark Wilbur Happy Day! I agree with Ralph: answer the survey straightforwardly and honestly, letting them know w ... Read more
Mark Wilbur Happy Day! I agree with Ralph: answer the survey straightforwardly and honestly, letting them know why you changed practices. If it was me, I'd send it in a different envelope addressed to one of the doctors and mark it "personal." Otherwise, one of the clerks (who may have had some culpability in your problems) may shred it before it comes to the doctors' attention. Good luck tomorrow and hope that Dr. F is at the end of the rainbow for you!
Kelly Stoll Anna,
First, congrats. You deserve the best. Second, complete the survey. If not for yourself, then f ... Read more
Kelly Stoll Anna,
First, congrats. You deserve the best. Second, complete the survey. If not for yourself, then for the next patient who walks through those doors.
May all of your questions be answered.
Darlene Smith Hoping you find the new office to be more responsive, reliable and most of all, trustworthy! It's so ... Read more
Darlene Smith Hoping you find the new office to be more responsive, reliable and most of all, trustworthy! It's so important to have a doctor who cares about you and your health!
LINDA ROBERTS Hope you find a cardiologist you can trust and cares about your heart health. That is so important. ... Read more
LINDA ROBERTS Hope you find a cardiologist you can trust and cares about your heart health. That is so important. I have a cardiologist at the Cleveland Clinic I really like but still searching for one where I live which is so important for follow up after surgery. I can relate to your problem for I had a similar experience locally.
Good luck, Anna.
Kim Lonergan Good luck with your new cardiologist! It really is important to have a good relationship and trust wi ... Read more
Kim Lonergan Good luck with your new cardiologist! It really is important to have a good relationship and trust with your cardiologist. Please update on how things go!
Rose Madura So glad you were able to switch. I would answer the survey hinestly.
With all the wire in my chest, I set off the alarms at the airport when coming home from the hospital. Does this mean I am always going to set off the alarms ...Read more
With all the wire in my chest, I set off the alarms at the airport when coming home from the hospital. Does this mean I am always going to set off the alarms at the airport? Will I be setting alarms off anywhere else that you can think of?
Dorothy Roer I’m 10 weeks post-op and have flown twice with zero alarms going off. I’m sorry this happened to ... Read more
Dorothy Roer I’m 10 weeks post-op and have flown twice with zero alarms going off. I’m sorry this happened to you.
Rose Madura I had surgery May 31, 2017 and flew Feb 3, 2018 and DID NOT set off alarms. I left my cell phone in ... Read more
Rose Madura I had surgery May 31, 2017 and flew Feb 3, 2018 and DID NOT set off alarms. I left my cell phone in my pocket though and THAT did set it off.
Robert S. Howell Might want to check, but my doctor provided me a card with information on it in case of problems at a ... Read more
Robert S. Howell Might want to check, but my doctor provided me a card with information on it in case of problems at airports. I flew back in June 2018 and never had a problem, though I did make it known to the officers that I had wires and a heart valve. Was never a problem at all. Sorry for your difficulties.
Darlene Smith I have never set off the alarms and was told the wires would not be a problem.
Kirk Bepler I just flew also about 3 weeks ago and was waiting for the alarms to go off, none did.
Rita Savelis Sorry to hear that Anna, but the wires in your chest should not set off any alarms.... The detector i ... Read more
Rita Savelis Sorry to hear that Anna, but the wires in your chest should not set off any alarms.... The detector in question must have been set at a very high sensitivity, which would then probably cause several "false" detections like yours...
What a hassle for you.
Kelly Stoll Anna, you had a tissue valve right? I know they gave me a card for my mechanical for that exact reaso ... Read more
Kelly Stoll Anna, you had a tissue valve right? I know they gave me a card for my mechanical for that exact reason. Hopefully you figure it out. Maybe call if you are unsure???
Alina FH Anna, I think this is unusual. I have flown for a year and a half now after surgery and never set off ... Read more
Alina FH Anna, I think this is unusual. I have flown for a year and a half now after surgery and never set off alarms. I asked the surgeon before the surgery and he said airports should never be a problem. The only time I have to make special mention about my mechanical valve and other artificial parts I have in the heart is when they do an echo or a cath because the visibility might me limited. Good luck!
And you are correct - a blip in time. I have never made any attempt to cover my scar either. It's wonderful to be off the post-op meds, and I hope you HR comes down eventually, if only for your peace of mind. Mine is about 74, and it's been 5 years since surgery.
And seriously, I hope you eat cake!