Well, had my apt with the allergist and have my patches on my back with all kinds of metals. She said I will nt be a candidate for the CLASP 11 because of... Read more
Well, had my apt with the allergist and have my patches on my back with all kinds of metals. She said I will nt be a candidate for the CLASP 11 because of my nickel allergy. I am still having the testing done though to document all the metals I am allergic to. Have to go back thursday to have patches removed and hoping I do not get too itchy. I am now back to square one not knowing how to get this repaired and am feeling very defeated and anxious today! I want to get off this roller coaster, it is not very fun :/ Hoping the valve team can come up with a safe, affective repair for me soon. Love and good wishes to everyone today
Richard Munson Those key chains must be non allergenic metal. My thermometer says 100 degrees. Just cancelled dog tr ... Read more
Richard Munson Those key chains must be non allergenic metal. My thermometer says 100 degrees. Just cancelled dog training tonight. Shadow is attached to the a.c. Vent. Too hot to drive my car. Yuck.
Pamela Gregory I hope they figure this out for you Kimberly. Thinking about you
Kimberly Eisenhut I do not wear the keychains, so that is not an issue. There is some nickel alloy in the charms I use... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I do not wear the keychains, so that is not an issue. There is some nickel alloy in the charms I use, but I am also not wearing them, just placing them on the keychains. I use surgical steel hooks for my earring wires so I can wear the ones I make without getting an allergic reaction, so that is nice. It cooled off a little today here, but the humidity is off the charts, so still feels like 95. It is supposed to be a very hot summer. Stay cool Shadow :) So far my back is not tiching too much though, which is good! Wish I could take a pic of my back to show you how silly it looks, LOL!
I know it is probably not good form to post this here, but If it is not, please forgive me. I need help getting more sales to my Etsy shop and am wondering ...Read more
I know it is probably not good form to post this here, but If it is not, please forgive me. I need help getting more sales to my Etsy shop and am wondering if my fellow heart valve friends would consider a hand stamped, personalized keychain for any gifting needs you may have coming up or in the future. I am the sole earner for my son and I and rely on my Etsy shop for income at this time. Thank you, Kim https://www.etsy.com/shop/RusticMidwestCharm
Happy Father's Day to all the Dads here on HVS! A special shout out to my HVS step dad, Richard! Hope your day is filled with love today
pat masotti abernathy Up-coming open heart aortic valve replacement. How long in recovery process? Will my Chronic Fatigu ... Read more
pat masotti abernathy Up-coming open heart aortic valve replacement. How long in recovery process? Will my Chronic Fatigue Syndrome add to recovery process?
Well, still waiting to get in to get my "Patch" testing done to find out how allergic I am to nickel and other components that may be in the CLASP 11 or any ...Read more
Well, still waiting to get in to get my "Patch" testing done to find out how allergic I am to nickel and other components that may be in the CLASP 11 or any other device to fix my tricuspid valve. I have always gotten a rash and itchy if I wear any jewelry containing nickel and I put that in MyChart. It has been extremely difficult getting in faster than months away for this testing and really had to push everyone to even get a Dr to consider getting me in quickly. I am supposed to get a call tomorrow about if allergist is wiling to squeeze me in in the next week or two. The valve team at Northwestern said they have never had this happen before (of course, lol), I told them I really do not think most people would think to include allergies like that in their charts because most people just think about allergies to medications when filling their chart out. I thought about this when my ortho was telling me I needed knee replacement which I have not done yet. I did find a couple of case studies that showed patients who had severe reactions to some of the heqart valve devices because of nickel allergy. One poor man suffered for a year before he could get it replaced and fixed. I'd rather not go through that twice. I just hope they can find something that will work for transcatheter approach, as it is the safest and best way to go for tricuspid and for someone my age as the head of the study at northwestern has told me the team thinks. I'd hate to risk open heart for tricuspid if I do not have to, but am just ready to get things moving along and get some decissions made. Sorry for the loooong update :/
Why does everything have to be so complicated with me!? After seeing Dr Malaisrie, he suggested I go with what dr Davidson said and try getting the transcatheter ...Read more
Why does everything have to be so complicated with me!? After seeing Dr Malaisrie, he suggested I go with what dr Davidson said and try getting the transcatheter TEER with the Edwards CLASP 11 TR Pivotal Clinical Trial Study. I have in MyChart that I have a nickel allergy and not sure why they did not say something about this themselves, as they are supposed to look at all of these things. I mentioned my allergy last night to them and asked what materials were in the device and they said there is a nickel alloy and said Id need to be tested for the nickel allergy because if i am truly allergic they cannot use it. I now have to try to get in to see a special allergist that does this testing, which can take months, but I have asked them to please help me get in quickly as I have been at severe regurgitation for several years at this point and did not know it. Why on Earth do they use this cheap nickel alloy to make such a device that is put in peoples hearts!? If I would have not said anything or asked this question, would it have been addressed at all? I have no other options for hospitals because of my insurance so have to trust in Northwestern. Adam, if you can help me in any way, I would greatly appreciate it. I am getting desperate at this point for guidance and help navigating as I am just exhausted. Have not slept in 4 days and am exhausted with all of this. Having a lot more symptoms and Dr Malaisrie basically told me Tuesday that surgery has not shown to prolong life in tricuspid patients, which floored me and my daughter and sister. I am just feeling very defeated at the moment and need some encouragement from my HVS family. Love you all
Kimberly Eisenhut I would like to thank Elizabeth Darwish for telling me her story with tricuspid. She has given me so... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I would like to thank Elizabeth Darwish for telling me her story with tricuspid. She has given me some hope, thank you so much
Valerie Allen I’m sorry for the great amount of frustration you have gone through for a long time now. Adam, I ho ... Read more
Valerie Allen I’m sorry for the great amount of frustration you have gone through for a long time now. Adam, I hope you can help!
Rose Madura Kimberly, you've had so much going on and I can't remember if you've asked your insurance company to ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, you've had so much going on and I can't remember if you've asked your insurance company to let you get another opinion at a different hospital. It might be worth trying. You're case is peculiar so maybe they'll go for it. I think Northwestern is a good hospital. Are you going to Chicago or one of their other locations near McHenry?
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kimberly, the Edwards CLASP 11 is made from Nitinol (nickel titanium alloy) but covered with pol... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kimberly, the Edwards CLASP 11 is made from Nitinol (nickel titanium alloy) but covered with polyethylene, then Nitinol doesn´t touch human tissue. Therefore, as far I think, there is very low probability to develop an allergy. Anyway, Kimberly, try (I know it´s difficult) to explore all ways to address this subject. On the other side, NItinol (Ni@Ti) is an alloy widely used in medical devices in all surgical branches for decades. Cheers up, best wishes
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Nitinol has a lot of applications coming from its property of be able to change the shape depending o ... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Nitinol has a lot of applications coming from its property of be able to change the shape depending on changes of temperature. The surgeon bends the implant at low temperature out of the patient so he can insert it into the catheter, and when comes to the tricuspide valve, release it, recovering the original shape and then holding the tricuspide wings.
Kimberly Eisenhut Rose, I go to chicago, yes, but cannot go anywhere else as I am unfortunatley on medicaid at this ti... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Rose, I go to chicago, yes, but cannot go anywhere else as I am unfortunatley on medicaid at this time. Fidel, the valve team themselves told me the components do have a nickel alloy, so thats why I have to have the patch testing by a dermotologist and if I have the allergy, they will need to figure out another way forward. Saying a lot of prayers and having hope My Etsy shop has been very busy for Fathers Day and I am grateful for that right now. My teenage son has been woderful helping me with orders and cooking, running errands and such, he is the most kind, loving young man, and I am not just saying that because he is my son It just hurts he has to be going through this with me as I am a single mom and it is just the 2 of us in the house.
Daisy Tanner Sending you my deepest prayers and positive thoughts Kimberly! So sorry for all you're going throug... Read more
Daisy Tanner Sending you my deepest prayers and positive thoughts Kimberly! So sorry for all you're going through 😞
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kim: I agree in trying a second opinion, as Deena says. On according with the Learning Center of ... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kim: I agree in trying a second opinion, as Deena says. On according with the Learning Center of this site and other web medical papers, there are several procedures to treat TC insufficiency, some clinical and other surgical and among last ones, some of them in open surgery in addition to other via catheter such as they have suggested to you. Regarding you Ni allergy , I think that is appropriate to take a test previously. Much encouragement!!!!
Already got my results in MyChart this morning. It is massive regurgitation and I have to say I am pretty nervous right now. I heard back from Dr Davidsons... Read more
Already got my results in MyChart this morning. It is massive regurgitation and I have to say I am pretty nervous right now. I heard back from Dr Davidsons nurse that the team will be reviewing everything and be ready for my apt on Teusday with Dr Malaisrie. I was told the diuretic may help it get better a bit, but seems as if it has made it worse since I started taking it, I just dont know and probably shouldnt guess. I almost wish I did not see the results, as now I cannot stop thinking about it and it really does no good to worry right now, as there is nothing I can do abut it. Please God grant me some peace for the future and stop my racing thoughts, I need a little peace going forward
Here is the response I recieved; This ROA range is consistent with massive TR - however there are other measurements that are used as well to quantify the overall severity. We will be reviewing the images in our heart team meeting next Tuesday and I will reach out with an update regarding next steps.
Here are specific findings from yesterday; Heart rate 62 bpm
Blood pressure 115/73 mmHg
Study quality: fair.
MEASUREMENTS:
Value Indexed Value
Sinus of Valsalva 3.0 cm
Left atrium diameter 3.1 cm (2D)
Left atrial volume 54.2 ml. 29.7 ml/m².
LV ID (diastole) 4.2 cm (2D) 2.3 cm/m²
LV ID (systole) 3.0 cm (2D) 1.6 cm/m²
IVS, leaflet tips 0.6 cm (2D)
Posterior wall thickness 0.9 cm (2D)
LV Global peak long strain -20.80 %
LV stroke volume 78 ml (3D)
LVOT diam 1.9 cm
LVOT stroke volume 61 ml 34.4 ml/m²
LV end diastolic volume 132 ml (3D) 72.4 ml/m²
LV end systolic volume 54 ml (3D) 29.6 ml/m²
Ejection Fraction 59 % (3D)
RV basal diameter 4.3 cm
TAPSE 23.2 mm
S' 14.5
RV free wall longitudinal strain -34.30 %
Doppler:
Value
AV Peak Velocity 1.4 m/s
AV Peak Gradient 8 mmHg
AV Mean Gradient 4 mmHg
AV Velocity Time Integral 25.8 cm
LVOT Peak Velocity 1.1 m/s
LVOT Peak Gradient 5 mmHg
LVOT Velocity Time Integral 21.6 cm
AV Area Cont Eq VTI 2.4 cm²
AV Area Cont Eq peak 2.2 cm²
MV Peak Velocity 0.9 m/s
MV Peak Gradient 4 mmHg
MV Mean Gradient 1 mmHg
MV Area PHT 4.04 cm²
Mitral E Point Velocity 0.5 m/s
Mitral A Point Velocity 0.6 m/s
TR Peak Velocity 2.4 m/s
TR Peak Gradient 25.0 mmHg
PV Peak Velocity 0.8 m/s
PV Peak Gradient 3 mmHg
RVOT Peak Velocity 0.9 m/s
FINDINGS:
LEFT VENTRICLE:
The left ventricle is normal in size.
There is no left ventricular hypertrophy.
Left ventricular systolic function is normal. EF = 59% (3D)
Global LV myocardial strain is normal at -20.80 %.
Left ventricular diastolic function is indeterminate. Mitral annular lateral e': 10.4 cm/s. Mitral annular lateral E/e': 5.2. Mitral annular septal e': 6.8 cm/s. Mitral annular septal E/e': 8.0. The average Mitral E/e' ratio is 6.6.
LV Wall Motion:
Left ventricular wall motion is normal.
All scored segments are normal.
RIGHT VENTRICLE:
The right ventricle is dilated. Right ventricular systolic function is normal.
Right ventricular systolic pressure could not accurately be estimated due to severe tricuspid regurgitation. RV free wall longitudinal strain is normal at -34.30 %.
LEFT ATRIUM:
The left atrial size is normal. The LA volume is 54.2 ml, 29.7 ml/m² when indexed.
RIGHT ATRIUM:
The right atrial cavity is dilated.
MITRAL VALVE:
There is mild mitral valve leaflet thickening. There is no mitral stenosis. The mitral valve mean gradient is 1 mmHg at a heart rate of 62 bpm. There is no mitral valve regurgitation.
TRICUSPID VALVE:
There is no tricuspid valve thickening. There is no tricuspid stenosis. There is severe tricuspid valve regurgitation. ROA(PA) is 66 mm².
AORTIC VALVE:
The aortic valve appears structurally normal but not well visualized. The number of aortic valve leaflets cannot accurately be assessed. There is no aortic valve stenosis. There is no aortic valve regurgitation.
PULMONIC VALVE
The pulmonic valve is not well visualized, but grossly normal. There is no pulmonic stenosis. There is trivial pulmonic valve regurgitation.
AORTA:
The visualized aorta is normal in size.
Measurements - Sinus 3.0 cm. Sinotubular junction 2.8 cm. Mid arch 3.6 cm. Proximal ascending aorta 3.4 cm.
CONCLUSIONS:
-Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed using standard views & projections with M-mode and Doppler (continuous, pulsed wave, spectral & color flow). Three-dimensional imaging was performed. Strain imaging was performed.
-The left ventricle is normal in size. There is no left ventricular hypertrophy. Left ventricular systolic function is normal. EF = 59% (3D) All scored segments are normal.
-The right ventricle is dilated. Right ventricular systolic function is normal.
-The right atrial cavity is dilated.
-There is severe tricuspid valve regurgitation.
-
-Compared to prior echo performed on 4/10/25, similar findings.
Electronically signed by Dr.Paul Cremer on 5/21/2025 at 3:49:54 PM.
Richard Munson I hope and pray this gets resolved soon. The word massive speaks for itself.
Rose Madura If it were critical, they wouldn't wait until Tuesday to review. And take note of the statement "howe ... Read more
Rose Madura If it were critical, they wouldn't wait until Tuesday to review. And take note of the statement "however there are other measurements that are used as well to quantify the overall severity." Your EF is great at 59. I know it's not the best news but I do pray you'll have peace. Trust in God, he will help you. 🙏👍💕
Kimberly Eisenhut Richard and Rose, thank you for the responses and I am going to trust in God to give me some peace t... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Richard and Rose, thank you for the responses and I am going to trust in God to give me some peace through this. I am so grateful for this community
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kim, take it easy and look these results by the positive side. You have your "left heart", both v... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi Kim, take it easy and look these results by the positive side. You have your "left heart", both ventricle and atrium normal and other heart parameters are ok. Your heart motor propulsion is fine. The only thing not so good is the tricuspide regurgitation, that is to say, the TV. And for this problem, there are several and good remedies to put it in order, you can see in this Adam´s site some of them. I think that your tests are not so bad and your heart have several and good solutions. Cheers up ! and count on our help .
Pamela Gregory Sending my best prayers your direction Kimberly. I think Fidel has a great point that once this valv... Read more
Pamela Gregory Sending my best prayers your direction Kimberly. I think Fidel has a great point that once this valve is fixed it appears the rest of your heart is doing well
I had my specialized TTE with a very special TR (tricuspid regurgitation) protocal and it took a little longer than a regular echo, but Northwestern is... Read more
I had my specialized TTE with a very special TR (tricuspid regurgitation) protocal and it took a little longer than a regular echo, but Northwestern is commited to advancing knowledge about the right heart and tricuspid valve. I am so grateful they are putting more concern and research into the "forgotten" valve. I will find out what surgeon and valve team think on 27th when I go see Dr Malaisrie. Thanks to the wonderful tech I had today for being so interested and becoming one of only 5 techs to do this test at Northwestern. Very nice young man
Daisy Tanner Sounds like you’re in good hands. 🙏🏼♥️
Fidel Martínez Ruiz It´s true that TV is the "forgotten valve". Here, the largest band are the "aortics" and after the ... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz It´s true that TV is the "forgotten valve". Here, the largest band are the "aortics" and after the "mitrals" (lol). You, the TV´s are a very selected group. I have not clear which kind of treatment or surgery you have been proposed for your TV. Would you explain a little?.
Richard Munson Lets hope my hvs step daughter gets some answers. Will say a special prayer for you kim.
Valerie Allen The band is back together, Fidel? Haha. Kim, this sounds encouraging! I am so glad there are advances ... Read more
Valerie Allen The band is back together, Fidel? Haha. Kim, this sounds encouraging! I am so glad there are advances in this area. Please let us know how your meeting goes. 💕
Rose Madura You are in good hands at Northwestern.👍
Fidel Martínez Ruiz The band is back together, Valerie, and we get by with a little help from our friends, as Beatles sa... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz The band is back together, Valerie, and we get by with a little help from our friends, as Beatles sang.
Adam Pick Hi Kim, I just noticed that only the first letter of your latest post is being displayed. I think thi ... Read more
Adam Pick Hi Kim, I just noticed that only the first letter of your latest post is being displayed. I think this might be an issue on certain devices and operating systems. That said, can you please tell me what device you used and what is the name of your browser (e.g. Chrome, Internet Explored, Safari)? Thanks so much!
Rose Madura Best to get checked out. Please keep us posted.
Kimberly Eisenhut Went well, d dimer of 470, Troponin 1 was a 2 for 1st one and a little less than 2 for 2nd one. Norm... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Went well, d dimer of 470, Troponin 1 was a 2 for 1st one and a little less than 2 for 2nd one. Normal levels in all blod tests Chest xray FINDINGS:
LUNGS AND PLEURA: No airspace or interstitial opacity. No pneumothorax or pleural effusion.
CARDIOMEDIASTINUM: Cardiomediastinal silhouette is within normal limits.
BONES: No acute fracture. Mild dextroscoliosis Home now and doing ok. I had chest pain for 2 days, so just needed to get it checked out. Thank you for your support and caring
Kimberly Eisenhut Waiting to talk to my cardiologist and for the EKG results to be posted, as cardiologist at hospital... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Waiting to talk to my cardiologist and for the EKG results to be posted, as cardiologist at hospital still has not read it, which is strange to me, but I guess if something was off, they would have told me right away or ordered more tests. Hard to trust ERs these days, sorry to say. Thank you everyone for the good wishes and prayers, it means the world to me
Has anyone had pain or achy feeling under left breast in ribcage when taking Flurosemide 20 mg? Is it acid reflux or gas? I wil ask my Dr on Monday, but started ...Read more
Has anyone had pain or achy feeling under left breast in ribcage when taking Flurosemide 20 mg? Is it acid reflux or gas? I wil ask my Dr on Monday, but started 2 weeks ago and wondering if it is the med.
Spoke to Dr Davidson yesterday morning virtually and he said my trisucpid is indeed severe and he would reccomend minimally invasive, but first wants me to ...Read more
Spoke to Dr Davidson yesterday morning virtually and he said my trisucpid is indeed severe and he would reccomend minimally invasive, but first wants me to try Lasix for a month, bloodwork after a week on it, then a TTE in a month to see if it is helping the tricuspid leak less. He also said, unfortunately that medicaid always denies the minimally invasive or transcatheter because it is new and its cost. He said it is around $100,000! He did say my valve would be an easier fix than most he sees because it is only the one leaflet and would only need a small fix. If I was 65 and had medicare I'd have no problem getting any surgery needed. Of course I would get the open heart replacement if insurance will not cover other option, but it is not at all the best option. Very frustrating, so praying the Lasix will help dial the leakage back and I am able to wait. I will update after the TTE in a month and my next consult with Dr. Any prayers are so appreciated and sending much love to all of this community and to Adam for creating it. Dr Davidson and I spoke a little about Adam and he said he loves that he created this platform for us and all of the information this site provides. He has interviewed him and spoke to him at their 20th anniversary of the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute.
Valerie Allen Kimberly, I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with so much. It sounds like your surgeon has done a lot o ... Read more
Valerie Allen Kimberly, I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with so much. It sounds like your surgeon has done a lot of tricuspid valve surgery, is that correct? This is very good. We’ll wait to hear more from you. Prayers going up 🙏
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you Valerie. After re reading my post, it sounds like I said my tricuspid has 1 leaflet, but it ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you Valerie. After re reading my post, it sounds like I said my tricuspid has 1 leaflet, but it does have 3, it is just the one that he thinks needs to be repaired. Dr Davidson has done over 100 transcatheter tricuspid procedures, as it has only ben done for a few years and is much more rare to have just primary tricuspid done. There are studies, but insurance is always, unfortunately a hurdle. I will also meet with Dr Malaisrie to discuss replacement through surgical approach, but it seems to be contradictory to have open heart surgery if it is not needed and can be done less invasively. I am praying these newer ones get approved quickly and by end of summer this year.
Richard Munson Sounds like you are making some progress. Just be aware of the lasix list of potential side effects s ... Read more
Richard Munson Sounds like you are making some progress. Just be aware of the lasix list of potential side effects so if you have any, you will recognize them. Frequent urination was the one that most impacted me, especially during the ride home after my surgery during covid with most rest areas closed.
Grace Mason Glad you got some feedback after your testing, Kim. It sounds positive that Dr D. feels confident it ... Read more
Grace Mason Glad you got some feedback after your testing, Kim. It sounds positive that Dr D. feels confident it will be a repair and an "easy" fix with surgery. Hope the meds help in the interim. 🤞🏼 you don't have too much trouble with insurance.🙏🏻
Rose Madura Kimberly, this sounds positive and it seems like you've found a great surgeon. I don't know how Medi ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, this sounds positive and it seems like you've found a great surgeon. I don't know how Medicaid works but is there something you can do to plead your case so minimally invasive would be approved? Just asking. Praying for you. 🙏
Robert Miller I guess his suggestion is pretty reasonable. Of course, at best that will only give some relief on th ... Read more
Robert Miller I guess his suggestion is pretty reasonable. Of course, at best that will only give some relief on the pressure, assuming you have fluid overflow. But it won't do anything for repairing the issue. Now since lasix can help because the stress on the valve can be reduced, I wonder if something like metoprolol could help. It lowers you heart rate and blood pressure, possibly further reducing the stress on the valve. Maybe discuss this with the cardiologist. In any case, as the doctor said, frequent tests should be done. You don't want to get heart failure because the issue getting worse.
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi, Kimberly.You don't worry very much with the difference between old and new procedures. In my opp... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Hi, Kimberly.You don't worry very much with the difference between old and new procedures. In my oppinion, the really important is the expertise of the surgeons in the procedure, being this old or new. I don't know which you are meaning with the approval by the summer. I guess that by FDA perhaps?
Pamela Gregory Kimberly, you have everyone's support no matter what! Hopefully lasix will buy you some time for ins... Read more
Pamela Gregory Kimberly, you have everyone's support no matter what! Hopefully lasix will buy you some time for insurance to change but if not it sounds like they know what they are dealing with and confident about fixing you up
Well, my cardiologist called me last night and said the valve team will be reaching out to me by end of this week. We will schedule a meeting and then... Read more
Well, my cardiologist called me last night and said the valve team will be reaching out to me by end of this week. We will schedule a meeting and then after that they have a powow and get back to me about what the best way forward is. I wish everyone a wonderful Easter weekend and a happy, healthy week "One beautiful heart is better than a thousand beautiful faces"
Well got my TEE results in MyChart this morning. Wish I would have not looked until I can talk to my Dr on Monday, but here is the result of the Tricuspid portion; ...Read more
Well got my TEE results in MyChart this morning. Wish I would have not looked until I can talk to my Dr on Monday, but here is the result of the Tricuspid portion; (as well as I guess a hole in my heart probably from birth from what I gather) -There is severe tricuspid valve regurgitation that is likely due to prolapse of the posterior leaflet. EROA(PA) by PISA is 51 mm². The tricuspid regurgitation volume is 49 ml. The 3D VCA is 0.53 cm².
-Sinus of Valsalva 3.5 cm. Proximal ascending aorta 4.1 cm. The visualized aorta is dilated.
-There is a patent foramen ovale detected by saline contrast.
Robert Miller I think it's good you looked at it early. It means you can come up with a list of questions before yo ... Read more
Dorothea Jenkins I also have a hole in heart which was like you from having a TEE done with saline salution. My doctor ... Read more
Dorothea Jenkins I also have a hole in heart which was like you from having a TEE done with saline salution. My doctor said it was nothing to worry about. Hate to hear you have the other problem and I'm sure they will fix you up good. You look to be very young. I had the TAVR done at 87 which was a success. Northwestern is suppose to be a top hospital.
Rose Madura Robert is correct. Do some research and compile a list of questions. Try copying and pasting the inf ... Read more
Rose Madura Robert is correct. Do some research and compile a list of questions. Try copying and pasting the information in an AI app and say, "help me understand this" then paste it. That may help you get a better understanding. Knowledge is power and will help you better understand and discuss with the doctor.
Grace Mason Kim, I found out I have a PFO after my surgery. Never knew about it before. My cardiologist also s ... Read more
Grace Mason Kim, I found out I have a PFO after my surgery. Never knew about it before. My cardiologist also said it didn't need to be addressed. Have the other findings changed for you since your last testing? Sending well wishes your way🙏🏻
Ana Brusso Totally agree with Robert and Rose. By the way I had a PFO closure done way before they discovered my ... Read more
Ana Brusso Totally agree with Robert and Rose. By the way I had a PFO closure done way before they discovered my valve issues. Still closed. Blessings and keep us posted. 🙏❤️
Robert Miller Btw, I love my second surgeon. I came in with a piece of paper where I wrote down all my questions. I ... Read more
Robert Miller Btw, I love my second surgeon. I came in with a piece of paper where I wrote down all my questions. I wrote them down in a word document and left some space between each question so I can put notes below the question. The surgeon, me and my wife mostly had an open discussion which lead to all kinds of other information. At the end, the surgeon asked me if he could look at my document and make sure all my questions are addressed. So we went down the whole list. If your surgeon doesn't do it, make sure you go down the list yourself. If you have a partner, have him/her jot down answers. And after you leave the office, before driving/riding off, write everything down.
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you for your advise and good wishes. I do not have an apt with Cardiologist or a surgeon. I am... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you for your advise and good wishes. I do not have an apt with Cardiologist or a surgeon. I am waiting to see what my Cardiologist, Dr Rigolin, says about my results and then I am guessing she will be setting up a meating with the valve team. I just thought it was more at the moderate stage, not at the severe stage yet. Dorothea, I am 59, going to be 60 on July 16th, so not that young
Deena Z Hi Kimberly, I totally get why the report was unsettling to you, given your tricuspid Valve went fr... Read more
Deena Z Hi Kimberly, I totally get why the report was unsettling to you, given your tricuspid Valve went from moderate regurgitation to severe. Is it possible for you to call your cardiologist's office to explain your recent TEE results were upsetting, and as such you would like to speak to the doctor briefly over the phone or get the doctor's assessment in writing ASAP. I have done this several times before my eventual surgery and I usually ended up speaking with a NP or PA, before my office visit. It can not hurt to try. Also, one other thing, in terms of writing questions down as suggested, please ask why your aorta is stated as "dilated". The reference is to the aorta root? Please tell us how it goes. In the meantime, godspeed.
Valerie Allen They sometimes do call aortic aneurysm a dilation. 4.1 is a very small dilation.
O.K., just got back from my TEE at 1p.m. I have never had such pain in my throat. I had mono as a teenager and this is worse. I do not understand why my... Read more
O.K., just got back from my TEE at 1p.m. I have never had such pain in my throat. I had mono as a teenager and this is worse. I do not understand why my throat is all scraped up and severely red. The nurse did say they had to suction while doing it because I was coughing a bit and had phlegm. I just did not expect this and did not realize it when I was still there because I was out of it, or I would have had them take a look. Has anyone else had this problem after a TEE? It is extremely painful just to swallow water and can barely talk. Hope its a bit better tomorrow. Mary, can you maybe help me understand how this happened? Sorry to be negative, I was not expecting this though. My son is making me a smoothy, hope I can sip it a little, as I have not eaten a thing since last night. Guess I will be losing a few lbs this weekend, LOL For the record, I am not a wimp; I gave birth to 3 babies with NO pain meds or epidurals.
Yumiko Ishida Sorry you are in so much pain. I suggest you leave a message with the doctor that did the TEE (so the ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Sorry you are in so much pain. I suggest you leave a message with the doctor that did the TEE (so they know how the procedure has affected you), and probably your PCP (to see if they have a remedy). I remember it being uncomfortable enough that all I wanted to have was soft food, but pain is not how I would describe my experience.
Fidel Martínez Ruiz I had two TEE scans and the second one did cause irritation, which disappeared after a few days. Now... Read more
Fidel Martínez Ruiz I had two TEE scans and the second one did cause irritation, which disappeared after a few days. Now I only have normal ECG every year . Hope you get better Kim.
Marie Myers Wow, I had a totally different experience. I slept through mine, and had no coughing or sore throat. ... Read more
Marie Myers Wow, I had a totally different experience. I slept through mine, and had no coughing or sore throat. Only thing I can think of is maybe the sedation you got was not adequate for a smooth procedure, and the saliva you produced made a LOT of suctioning necessary. I am sorry you had such a rough experience. Gargling with salt water (1 teaspoon/ quart) might help with the irritation. There is also a product called viscous xylocaine with can help if the soreness persists.
Sue Maize Oh Kim, how unpleasant for you! I had a TEE years ago and was given only a sedative—I don’t remem ... Read more
Sue Maize Oh Kim, how unpleasant for you! I had a TEE years ago and was given only a sedative—I don’t remember the pain so much as the gagging. A nurse was on either side of me holding me upright. It was awful. Last June when I had my surgery, I could see from the notes, that they also performed a TEE—probably why, in addition to the intubation, that my throat was so raw post-op. Small sips of room temp water and a constant supply of lozenges helped a bit. It eventually went away and that was the best feeling ever!
Kimberly Eisenhut Marie, my glands are swollen under my jawbone especially on the right side. I can talk at least this ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Marie, my glands are swollen under my jawbone especially on the right side. I can talk at least this morning, but painful swollowing and sore jaw bones.
Marie Myers Wow, sounds like it was really a rough procedure! The sore jaw bones are probably from anesthesia pe ... Read more
Marie Myers Wow, sounds like it was really a rough procedure! The sore jaw bones are probably from anesthesia personnel holding your airway open. That is commonly done during this type of procedure.
Kimberly Eisenhut Doing much better tonight :) Just going to take a bit for it to heal. I do think maybe they were a li ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Doing much better tonight :) Just going to take a bit for it to heal. I do think maybe they were a little rough, but it is done and I am happy. Thank you everyone for the responses and info.
Robert Miller I was the last guy that day and my cardiologist had like half a dozen "kids" around me to practice/wi ... Read more
Robert Miller I was the last guy that day and my cardiologist had like half a dozen "kids" around me to practice/witness. They knocked me out pretty good. When I woke up, it felt like a bad soar throat. My throat felt swollen and it was kind of hard to swallow. After a day or so it improved a lot. The first 1-2 days might be painful and you might feel uncomfortable for 2-3 days.
Well my TEE was rexcheduled with Northwestern due to not having the right "Team" in place for tomorrow. Now scheduled for the 10th at 11.30a.m. Will be a... Read more
Well my TEE was rexcheduled with Northwestern due to not having the right "Team" in place for tomorrow. Now scheduled for the 10th at 11.30a.m. Will be a long week next week; MRI of brain on Tuesday, Nueroligist on Wed and TEE on Thursday! Woohoo! Hope everyone is having a good week and blessings and prayers to all today
Michael Ponzio Sending many blessings your way. I pray everything works out well for you
Grace Mason Wow! You do have a busy week. Hope those will provide you some solutions. Prayers for good things ... Read more
Grace Mason Wow! You do have a busy week. Hope those will provide you some solutions. Prayers for good things 🙏🏻
Valerie Allen Yes, that sounds tough. But you have the courage to make it through! 💕
Pamela Gregory Thinking of you this week and sending my best
Sue Maize Full week indeed Kimberly! God bless you with his peace as you take each step towards your surgery— ... Read more
Sue Maize Full week indeed Kimberly! God bless you with his peace as you take each step towards your surgery—do you have a date or are they not at that stage yet? ❤️🩹🙏🏻
Kimberly Eisenhut Sue, they are not at that stage, that is why we are doing the TEE now, to see exactly what is going o ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Sue, they are not at that stage, that is why we are doing the TEE now, to see exactly what is going on and if it is time.
Sue Maize Oh my goodness, you get serious points for patience girl! 💕
Well, when I went for my ultrasound of my liver this morning, I happened to be walking out of the Northwestern Hospital here in McHenry IL where I live, ... Read more
Well, when I went for my ultrasound of my liver this morning, I happened to be walking out of the Northwestern Hospital here in McHenry IL where I live, (there are a few Northwestern hospitals out here in the suburbs of Chicago),and had a couple walking beside me and husband had a heart pillow. I asked how he was doing and had a long convo about how he just got a heart transplant 3 weeks ago downtown Northwestern Hospital and here he is walking around and his wife called him a "walking miracle". She teared up when she talked about how great the nurses were at Northwestern in Chicago and how wonderful they all were. What a wonderful chance meeting this morning
Darrell Malone Thanks for sharing this. It is nice to read good news. So much stuff overshadows moments like that. ... Read more
Darrell Malone Thanks for sharing this. It is nice to read good news. So much stuff overshadows moments like that. Things are much better then it appears. All the best.
Fidel Martínez Ruiz Wonderful Kimberly, It is gratifying to hear news like this. Best regards.
Ana Brusso What a great story Kimberly. The miracles of science. Thank you for sharing 🙏❤️
Rose Madura That is great to hear. It must have been so reassuring for you. A God ordained moment for sure. Ju ... Read more
Rose Madura That is great to hear. It must have been so reassuring for you. A God ordained moment for sure. Just what you needed. 👍❤️🩹
Deena Z Amazing, walking around so soon after a heart transplant. Thxs for the good news share, Kimberly.
Susan Lynn What a lovely story, Kimberly! You certainly provided hope and inspiration at a time when this cou ... Read more
Susan Lynn What a lovely story, Kimberly! You certainly provided hope and inspiration at a time when this couple probably needed it. Well done!!
Pamela Gregory Truly an inspirational story! Thank you for sharing it. It is amazing what can be done
Well, had another episode with my eyes last nght and lost partial vision like a half moon white area in right eye that went away in about 10 minutes, then... Read more
Well, had another episode with my eyes last nght and lost partial vision like a half moon white area in right eye that went away in about 10 minutes, then had an aura in both eyes that went away within about 20 minutes, Went to opthamologist this morning and all tests came back normal, so he said it is most likely something to do with cbloodflow to brain, wants my nuerologist to add MRA/MRV to my MRI downtown Northwestern next week,but not sure they will be able to add it so quickly, I am trying to coordinate between the Drs and hospital to get it done on Tuesday which is when I scheduled the MRI only with contrast. I have to go downtown because they are the only hospital that will do it for me because I may have a reaction to the contrast dye. I hope and pray they can accomodate and get it through insurance and get me in for everything at once. I am so nervous about what is going on and praying it is not serious. I have been having a lot of headaches and trouble even typing and doing normal daily activities these past few months. Things seem to be piling up here and not sure how much i can handle. I know so many of you have gone through so much and feel bad about posting my troubles, but this is really the only support I have and appreciate you all so much So much love sent to all here and I pray for us all nightly. Kim
Kimberly Eisenhut I know I am being repetative today, but I really need to say again how much this community means to ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I know I am being repetative today, but I really need to say again how much this community means to me and every single person who is going through these difficult situations needs to know how amazing, strong and inspirational you are. Love you all so much! To those of you going through these things without a spouse or significant other, I know you know how it feels and wish us the strength it takes to do these things and try to push through and stay srong. I must admit, I am getting worn down and struggling at the moment.
Marie Myers Sounds like my own ocular migraines. I have had them since I was a teenager, and they lessened with t ... Read more
Marie Myers Sounds like my own ocular migraines. I have had them since I was a teenager, and they lessened with time. Fast forward to my own heart surgery at age 63, when I experienced dozens and dozens of them after surgery. They once again lessened with time, and are now just occasional. I attribute mine to the stress of surgery, and possibly the heart-lung machine.
Yumiko Ishida Insurance companies tend to take vision concerns seriously, in my experience, so hopefully they will ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida Insurance companies tend to take vision concerns seriously, in my experience, so hopefully they will come through in time so you only have to make one trip. Vision issues can be scary. Sending you prayers, Kimberly!
Susan Lynn Kimberly- I'm sorry to hear you're continuing to have problems with your eyes. I've had many with ... Read more
Susan Lynn Kimberly- I'm sorry to hear you're continuing to have problems with your eyes. I've had many with mine, too. I was seeing half moon flashes in my eyes and went through a battery of tests with three ophthalmologists only to find nothing wrong. Take it one step at a time and see what further evaluation reveals. I agree with Marie, I think some of my issues are related to bypass and my history of migraines, too. Please keep us posted on your progress.
Valerie Allen Kimberly, your description does sound a lot like my ocular migraines. Like Marie, I started getting t ... Read more
Valerie Allen Kimberly, your description does sound a lot like my ocular migraines. Like Marie, I started getting them as a teen and have gone through times when I get them often and times when I get them rarely. I do get a dull headache after the vision effects but fortunately Tylenol does the trick for me. I did not have an increase after heart surgery but many have. I guess I’m saying try not to panic, it could be something like this you are dealing with. I also notice I get them when I have been stressed and am starting to settle down, if that helps.
Yumiko Ishida If this is something relatively new to you, I think it warrants a thorough investigation. Everybody r ... Read more
Yumiko Ishida If this is something relatively new to you, I think it warrants a thorough investigation. Everybody reacts to stress differently. Last fall, a friend of mine started throwing up on a Wednesday, and everybody assumed it was a serious case of election flu, but that is not how she usually reacts to anxiety. It turns out it was a supplement she was taking before and increased its dose that Tuesday, but it took a while to figure that out. Stress makes everything worse, but usually there is some underlying issue. I have many conditions that are triggered by stress, but until you know what’s going on, well, that is stress inducing… Hope you get the tests you need and find some answers!
Rita Savelis Please don't feel bad about posting your troubles. Being honest is the only way you can be. Someone e ... Read more
Rita Savelis Please don't feel bad about posting your troubles. Being honest is the only way you can be. Someone else might relate to your troubles, even if it is only one person. Sharing is healing. So sorry you are going through this.
Pamela Gregory Kimberly, I hope they can figure this out asap for you. I also got the ocular migraines after surger... Read more
Pamela Gregory Kimberly, I hope they can figure this out asap for you. I also got the ocular migraines after surgery and still get them once in a while but yours sounds more severe. So glad you are going to such a good hospital to figure it out!
Rose Madura Kimberly, mine are like Marie and Valerie. Had them most of my life. It increased after surgery and ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, mine are like Marie and Valerie. Had them most of my life. It increased after surgery and now is occasional. My opthalmologist says it is caused when the vitreous gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina thins as we age. And don't feel bad about venting. It's good therapy and we are all here for one another.
Michael Ponzio Hang in there Kimberly. Good does not give us what we cannot handle. You are strong and will get thro ... Read more
Michael Ponzio Hang in there Kimberly. Good does not give us what we cannot handle. You are strong and will get through this. Have faith and we will continue to pray and be here for you.
Kimberly Eisenhut Valerie, do you get the half moon whiteish loss of vision in lower half in one eye for a bit and it ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Valerie, do you get the half moon whiteish loss of vision in lower half in one eye for a bit and it gradually shrinks in about 10 minutes? Thank you all so much, I do feel a little better reading your experiences. I have not had surgety yet, so it is not related to that. I am under a lot of stress though. Michael, Thank you and I pray for all of us nightly Love this community very much!
Kimberly Eisenhut Oh, also wearing a ZIO monitor today and tomorrow per my cardiologist suggestion because my HR was g... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Oh, also wearing a ZIO monitor today and tomorrow per my cardiologist suggestion because my HR was going down to 48-52 in early evenings. This thng is pretty cool! I used to wear the older ones with more sticky electrodes that would give me horrible hyves. This thing is so much nicer! Not red or itchy so far :) Richard, hope you are having a great weekend and have some sunshine on your walks with you Shadow
Marie Myers The half moon of white zig-saggy lines describes my ocular migraines (auras) perfectly. They shrink a ... Read more
Marie Myers The half moon of white zig-saggy lines describes my ocular migraines (auras) perfectly. They shrink after 20-ish minutes. When i was younger, they were followed by a headache, nausea and vomiting. Classic migraine. Now, I rarely get a headache after the auras, and if I do, they are very mild…
Valerie Allen My first inkling is when I am looking at something and a smallish portion of my sight is just kind of ... Read more
Valerie Allen My first inkling is when I am looking at something and a smallish portion of my sight is just kind of whited out. It could be called a half moon white perhaps, though I’ve called it more of a blob where it kind of whited out. Within a few minutes the zig-zagging lines which are multi-colored start for about 20 minutes. They take the place of the blob. It generally works its way from in the middle of my vision to the outer edge, then disappears. Slightly headache. Hope that helps!
I have had similar occurrences twice where dark dots flowed across the vision of one eye and then the other, no pain only partial vision blockage for minute. On other occasions which happen more frequently, my vision is "cracked" like you have taken a picture and torn it in half and then haphazardly put it back together. The first episodes were diagnosed as blood clots and the second as optical migraines. They seem to occur when I have had caffeine and under stress. Hope this is helpful, mark
Has anyone else had trouble with Amlodipine Besylate? I only take 2.5mg, but tonight about two hours after taking it, (I have been taking it for years now) ...Read more
Has anyone else had trouble with Amlodipine Besylate? I only take 2.5mg, but tonight about two hours after taking it, (I have been taking it for years now) my bp went down to 101/70 and pulse went from 70 sitting to 110 just standing up. Tried getting in the shower and heart was pounding and very uncomfortable, so had to basically get right out. Did not feel the need to go to hospital because I have had similar symptoms before, a while after taking it, but usually just wait it out. This one was worse. Not going to take this any more! Put a message in to my Cardiologist and will probably speak to her tomorrow. Just do not think I can take it any more. It is the lowest dose, so thinking I do not need it any longer, or need something different.
Ana Brusso Sorry for the uncomfortable feeling you felt. Glad you are talking to your cardiologist tomorrow.
Rose Madura Kimberly, I'm sorry you had this happen. I have been taking it for 7+ years with no side effects. Gla ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, I'm sorry you had this happen. I have been taking it for 7+ years with no side effects. Glad you are going to reach out to your cardiologist. Please keep us posted.
Robert Miller I am not familiar with that medicine but are you sure it's related to the medicine? Do you consistent ... Read more
Robert Miller I am not familiar with that medicine but are you sure it's related to the medicine? Do you consistently feel it like 30-60 minutes after taking it? Is the time affected if you eat something before? Episodes of fast heart beats can happen, especially when taking a shower. Your heart can sometimes feel like it's pounding (or actually is pounding). For sure, you should discuss it with your cardiologist but it's not necessarily something I would go to ER for.
Richard Munson I take it daily with no issues so far. It has kept my blood pressure at 120/80 and it was prescribed ... Read more
Richard Munson I take it daily with no issues so far. It has kept my blood pressure at 120/80 and it was prescribed after i stopped eliquis and when aneurism was discovered. As robert stated, maybe another cause?
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you all for you input. I will update when I hear back from my Dr. I have been having so much fa ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you all for you input. I will update when I hear back from my Dr. I have been having so much fatigue, disoriented and just unable to concentrate or basically function daily. As I sit typing this, I am really struggling to just type. I know I am sleep deprived, but this is just not living at this point. I cannot even drive out to visit my daughter in Wisconsin and miss them so much! I used to go out there every weekend and it's been over a month now. My PCP is not much help nor is my nuerologist. Just says to wait until I go get my MRI late next month of my head. I am just feeling so let down by my Drs at this point. I force myself to get my orders for my Etsy shop done and out every day, but anything more than that is really a struggle. I work from home, so am very grateful for that. I cannot even fathom how I would work even a part time job at this point. Just want my old life back, but maybe its just my new normal.
Robert Miller Considering the fact that, as you said, you are on a very low dose, see if your cardiologist is ok wi ... Read more
Robert Miller Considering the fact that, as you said, you are on a very low dose, see if your cardiologist is ok with stopping the medicine for a week. According to google, Amlodipine seems to have a half life of almost 2 days. So within 4 days you should be down to about 1/4 the dose (1/8 after 6 days). So if it is indeed the medicine, then within 4 days or so you should feel a significant difference. If you don't, then it might be something else than the medicine.
Went to my Cardiology apt today and she is ordering a TEE just to have a closer look at things. She is not saying I need surgery yet as I am still the same ...Read more
Went to my Cardiology apt today and she is ordering a TEE just to have a closer look at things. She is not saying I need surgery yet as I am still the same according to my stress echo last month, but to be safe and give me the chance to speak with the Drs at the valve clinic there. I scheduled it for Feb 25th. Nervous, but guess its something I have to do.
Richard Munson Nice to hear step hvs daughter. February is a good month, my birthday. Not good: 83. Good: still aliv ... Read more
Richard Munson Nice to hear step hvs daughter. February is a good month, my birthday. Not good: 83. Good: still alive.
Pamela Gregory Better to check and be safe just in case. Hopefully everything is A OK
Rose Madura Maybe this will give you some peace to talk with the doctors at the valve clinic.
Kimberly Eisenhut Richard, yes it is a good month :) It is also good to be 83! I will be 60 this July. Thank you Pamel... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Richard, yes it is a good month :) It is also good to be 83! I will be 60 this July. Thank you Pamela and Rose. It would be so nice to meet everyone here some day. Like a weekend by a lake or something. Does anyone have a large lake house we can use, lol. I have so much love and am so very grateful for all of you on here. Blessings to everyone today
Valerie Allen It will be good to have some answers, Kim 💕
Robert Miller That's the right thing to do. It gives you answers. I told them to knock me out. Besides the cardiolo ... Read more
Robert Miller That's the right thing to do. It gives you answers. I told them to knock me out. Besides the cardiologist, I had like half a dozen other "kids" around me. I think the cardiologist just wanted to show them how this is done. I heard the cardiologist saying something like give him this much and man that RAELLY put me under.
Rose Madura Kimberly, the next time we go to McHenry, I'll let you know. My husband is from there and my step-dau ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, the next time we go to McHenry, I'll let you know. My husband is from there and my step-daughter lives there.
Went to Nuerologist last Thursday and he wants me to have an MRI of my head because of the visual issues I have been having. I just went to get notes for... Read more
Went to Nuerologist last Thursday and he wants me to have an MRI of my head because of the visual issues I have been having. I just went to get notes for the insurance company so they would let me have my cpap machine. Sheesh, just one thing after another over here. My yorkie had pink eye (thats a first!), then needed meds for tummy trouble, so two trips to vet last week too. Then when trying to schedule the MRI, noticed he asked for contrast dye and I said I do not want contrast because of side affects so had to reorder and will schedule tomorrow. Ive been waiting weeks to get my cpap so I can sleep and must have made a dozen phone calls trying to work that all out. Im telling you, we need to do better with healthcare. I was also denied my stress echo when my cardiologist even did a peer to peer call with insurance. Hoping to get it in January though. Sorry for my long winded post, just been extra stressed lately. I do appreciate you Richard for the funny things you've posted, did make me chuckle. Thank you HVS step- dad!
Anna Rakowicz Kimberly, do you have an order for the cpap already? I assume you’ve had the sleep study done and ... Read more
Anna Rakowicz Kimberly, do you have an order for the cpap already? I assume you’ve had the sleep study done and need one. Is the insurance your only hold up? Just curious as my sister is going through process now.
Kimberly Eisenhut Anna, I was having a lot of trouble getting things going between my nuerologist, insurance and the cp ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Anna, I was having a lot of trouble getting things going between my nuerologist, insurance and the cpcp company. They are so incompenent at times. I should npt have had to make at least a dozen calls to get this done. My ER visit the other night because of my eye disturbances speeded it up finally though! Also my sister not taking any excuses when she was calling them all several times from the hospital helped as well as the ER Dr calling the nuerologists office herself. I know my current insurance company was trying to put it off so my new insuramce company could pay for it next month when I switch, but I was not going to wait any longer, as I know it has been affecting my eyes because of how low my blood ox gets when I have apneas. Also can affect your heartm especially since it is my tricuspid. If your sister has good insurance she should have no problems, but if she does not get approval and machine within a week or 10 days, she needs to start making calls.
Suzette Schear Did you ever clap? How’s your sleep apnea?
Kimberly Eisenhut Yes, I got my cpap machine. It is tough getttin gused to and adjustring settings, but it is slowly h... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Yes, I got my cpap machine. It is tough getttin gused to and adjustring settings, but it is slowly helping. As for my MRI, I have to get another one with contrast, but it will be downtown Chicago at Northwestern because the Northwestern Hospitals here in the suburbs of Chicago will not do it because they are not equipped if I have a reaction to the dye. That will be in March. In the meantime, I will be having a laser eye procedure to open up a area in my eye that is not draining fluid and causing problems with glaucoma, so that is on Monday and should be interesting. Hope it helps with occular migraines. Oh ya, I also have to see a hemotologist next month because of some of my blood counts being off. Praying it is nothing serious. Ill keep you posted. A lot of stuff coming up, as well as cardioligist apt downtown on the 21st. Love my HVS family Big hugs and good wishes to you Suzette and of course Richard
Suzette Schear I understand Kim when the doctors keep on testing and it’s one after another. Sometime the dye can ... Read more
Suzette Schear I understand Kim when the doctors keep on testing and it’s one after another. Sometime the dye can have a reaction but not what you expect it made my lower region want some companionship - I kid you not. Here I am in the worst shape and that’s what had happened. Glad the cpap is helping -not having sleep makes everything so worse as you know . Eventually hopefully you’ll get used to it. It’s hard getting hit in all directions but you’re tough. I can tell. Cutting holes in metals. I checked out your Etsy site and will be doing some ordering you’re very talented. Sending love support and prayers.
Oh I can so relate!! Our health care systems can be so frustrating and aggravating!! Just wait till y ... Read more
Oh I can so relate!! Our health care systems can be so frustrating and aggravating!! Just wait till you get to be a senior trying to navigate. Too many times it can feel like the insurance companies, and sometimes health professionals, would prefer you just give up & go away. Don’t give up & best wishes for timely positive outcomes only. This a great forum to vent I think.
Well, my sleep study showed 7 apneas an hour and my blood ox went down to 80% during 6 of them. Not good! I will be hopefully getting a cpap machie soon. Yikes, ...Read more
Well, my sleep study showed 7 apneas an hour and my blood ox went down to 80% during 6 of them. Not good! I will be hopefully getting a cpap machie soon. Yikes, more stuff🙃
Richard Munson Good luck hvs step daughter. I sleep like a log and cannot imagine wearing a gas mask to bed but wha ... Read more
Richard Munson Good luck hvs step daughter. I sleep like a log and cannot imagine wearing a gas mask to bed but whatever works. Many use it including william shattner. Whats good enough for capt. Kirk is good enough for me. You need your beauty sleep.
Valerie Allen Yes, I have friends who just love their c-pap once used to it.
Kimberly Eisenhut It would be nice to sleep thats for sure. Jst waiting for insurance and an appointment.
Ana Brusso I have been using a CPAP machine since 2009. Once you get use to it it’s not bad.
Susan Lynn Glad they got to the bottom of it, Kimberly. It's brutal when you can't get a good night's sleep. ... Read more
Susan Lynn Glad they got to the bottom of it, Kimberly. It's brutal when you can't get a good night's sleep. There are a few options for apnea, now. I'm sure your doc will review them with you. All the best to you!
Kimberly Eisenhut Susan, the Dr has not talked to me at all about options. I feel I have to advocate for every little t ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Susan, the Dr has not talked to me at all about options. I feel I have to advocate for every little thing with every Dr these days. They also did not put it through to the cpap company when they said they had and I had to call back yesterday to get them to make sure it was sent and today I am calling the cpap company to make sure they sent it to insurance. This has become a full time job, just getting things approved and making sure things are being done that I should not have to be worrying about. I should have had my appointment to get the machine already and instead I am still waiting for the apporval to go through. Same with my upcoming stress echo on the 19th. Someone called me this morning telling me insurance did not approve it, then she says, oh! I see now that they said they did not get Dr notes. O.K., well, how about sending the notes the first time you send for approval!? Sheesh! I understand human error, but lately, it is borderlining on neglectful. Sorry, I am just frustrated.
Susan Lynn Kimberly- I'm so sorry you have to go through that with your doctor's office. Sadly, it appears to... Read more
Susan Lynn Kimberly- I'm so sorry you have to go through that with your doctor's office. Sadly, it appears to be a trend in healthcare. I suspect it's related to understaffing. If not, I have to accept that the possibility that physicians have lost their focus on patient care. Before you go directly to the cpap machine as your chosen treatment, do a little research on some of the newer approaches. My father had terrible sleep apnea and found use of the cpap difficult and unwearable. He opted to sleep without it and endured the compromised sleep and incredible risk of his condition. Unfortunately, these newer options weren't available before he passed away. I echo your words, 'You have to be your own advocate.' Please keep us posted on your progress. Good luck to you.
Kimberly Eisenhut Susan, out of curiosity, can you tell me what these alternatives are?
Susan Lynn Kimberly - Here's some information and there's also a new drug that has been developed. https://w ... Read more
Susan Lynn Kimberly - Here's some information and there's also a new drug that has been developed. https://www.inspiresleep.com/en-us/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=conversion_nonbrand&utm_content=text_home&utm_t
Inspire® therapy is a mask-free solution for people with obstructive sleep apnea who have tried and struggled with CPAP. No mask. No hose. Just sleep.™
Well, just found out my insurance is being dropped by all of the Northwestern hospitals out here, which is basically all there is out here, and all of my Drs ...Read more
Well, just found out my insurance is being dropped by all of the Northwestern hospitals out here, which is basically all there is out here, and all of my Drs associated with my insurance. I am just sick about this and so stressed!
Mark Denault Kim, Sorry about to insurance stress. I will keep you in my thoughts...
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you Deena and Mark. I spoke to my cardiac specialist and she is going to help me get any testin ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you Deena and Mark. I spoke to my cardiac specialist and she is going to help me get any testing I may need done by end of December in case I cannot switch my insurance until its time for my renewal. She is so wonderful!
Ana Brusso Kimberly, please don’t stress over this. Call your State people to find out what are your options. ... Read more
Ana Brusso Kimberly, please don’t stress over this. Call your State people to find out what are your options. 🙏❤️👍
Rose Madura Kimberly, is this insurance through your job? What a terrible thing to happen. You seem to be hit by ... Read more
Rose Madura Kimberly, is this insurance through your job? What a terrible thing to happen. You seem to be hit by a lot of things all at once. Praying for you. 🙏
Margaret Fielden Praying for you Kimberley. My surgery was to be private here in the UK but, because I took longer tha ... Read more
Margaret Fielden Praying for you Kimberley. My surgery was to be private here in the UK but, because I took longer than expected to recover, my surgeon transferred me to the NHS. Miracles happen
Susan Lynn Kimberly - Usually you have to wait until open enrollment to change plans. Communicate with your e... Read more
Susan Lynn Kimberly - Usually you have to wait until open enrollment to change plans. Communicate with your employer - they may not be aware that Northwestern isn't going to be participating in this plan. Chances are others will also be reporting it to the HR Department, too. Best of luck to you. Please keep us posted.
Meredith Bray Hi Kimberly. I had a similar insurance issue about 3 months before surgery - my dingbat cardiologist ... Read more
Meredith Bray Hi Kimberly. I had a similar insurance issue about 3 months before surgery - my dingbat cardiologist referred me to a surgeon who was no longer alive! Can you believe that? I contacted the Patient Advocate (a Humana employee with an office in my employer's headquarters) to help me find a surgeon that was in-network. The Advocate helped me get an appointment with the surgeon. I took with me a list of in-network cardiologists, and when I was checking out after my consultation, I talked with the front-office staff and asked them to circle some names on my list that they had good relationships with. I found myself a new cardiologist in the same building, and form there I found a new PCP also. All within 3 months of surgery. It was so frustrating, the processes moved so slow, and it seemed like nobody knew any answers. I remember one evening I was so dejected I about gave up. Like...I wanted to stop going to doctor appointments and just let whatever happen :( Do you have insurance through your employer? Do they have a patient advocate you can talk to? Or maybe an EAP/employee assistance plan that can assign you to someone to help guide you through the next year? If not, can you reach out to someone at the insurance company (I know...good luck with that, right?) I found that people were so very helpful when I approached them asking for help. Gosh I hope you can get this all sorted out, the last thing we need is insurance and scheduling stress. Please take care of yourself, get enough sleep and mild exercise and eat well. You'll get through this!
Meredith Oak Ridge TN
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you all for the advise and thoughts and prayers about my insurance. I was able to switch to Blu ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut Thank you all for the advise and thoughts and prayers about my insurance. I was able to switch to Blue Cross, which my Drs and hospitals take, they just are not as good and need a lot more pre approvals, but I am so grateful to just have insurance. Please pray that we can keep the afffordable care act or similar so that people like myself can have and keep insurance. Being a single income household with a teenager makes it very difficult these days with such high rents and bills in general. My rent here in McHenry Illinois is incredibly high for a 2 bedroom 1200 square foot townhouse. I paid the $100 less 1 1/2 years ago for 2200 square feet, 3 bedroom with finished full basement and was a house with a fenced yard, 4 years ago with my mother that was just the next town over. Owner diceded to sell and had to find a new place ast year.
Well, had a strange thing happen this afternoon with my right eye, not the one with the hemorage. All of a sudden had a half moon shaped blind spot in my field ...Read more
Well, had a strange thing happen this afternoon with my right eye, not the one with the hemorage. All of a sudden had a half moon shaped blind spot in my field of vision that went away in like 10 minutes. I could still see out of rest of my eye, just a certain amount in center of vision was gone. I will be speaking to my eye Dr in morning and Dr. Just wondering if anyone else has ever experienced something like this. It was so scary.
Ana Brusso Hi Kimberly it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about it. I started having blind spots and didn ... Read more
Ana Brusso Hi Kimberly it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about it. I started having blind spots and didn’t do anything about and about 15 years ago both eyes went blind for a few minutes, I drove home from work (not a good thing to do) and when got home I went to the ER and was diagnosed with a TIA. It has not happened since but it can be serious or not. Keep us posted. ❤️🙏
Kimberly Eisenhut I have messaged my opthomoligist and cardiologist and will call them tomorrow also. I asked to have a ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I have messaged my opthomoligist and cardiologist and will call them tomorrow also. I asked to have a CT scan of head and scan of carotid arteries. I will update when I found out anything. How long was it from blind spots to full on blind like you said?
Kimberly Eisenhut I mean, the at work temporary blindness episode. What did they do for it? Thank you for this tonig ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut I mean, the at work temporary blindness episode. What did they do for it? Thank you for this tonight, I really needed some reassurance before I go to bed tonight :)
Beth Leonard I’m not sure if this is at all what it could be but wanted to throw it out there as a less scary po ... Read more
Beth Leonard I’m not sure if this is at all what it could be but wanted to throw it out there as a less scary possibility. I occasionally get ocular migraines. They are not painful but I suddenly get blind spots or vibrating squiggles in my vision. Lasts for about 20-30 mins but then goes away and vision restored completely back to normal. Eye doc told me they don’t real know what causes Occular migraines. I think mine could be brought on by anxiety! Hope that helps!
Suzette Schear Beth how often do you get these ocular migranes?
Marie Myers It could also be a retina problem, so best to check it checked out. I have ocular migraines myself, a ... Read more
Marie Myers It could also be a retina problem, so best to check it checked out. I have ocular migraines myself, and they start with bright, zig zag squiggly lines that grow into a larger “blob” that will block vision in one area. They last about 30 minutes max for me. In my younger years, these visual disturbances were followed by a migraine headache. Thank God I grew out of that! Now I just get the ocular migraines, no headache.
Pamela Gregory I started getting ocular migraines after my heart surgery. They are way less frequent now but very s ... Read more
Pamela Gregory I started getting ocular migraines after my heart surgery. They are way less frequent now but very strange for sure
Pamela Gregory Definitely head to the Dr Kimberly. Better to check it out to be sure what is going on
Geoff Curtis I also get ocular migraines, got them almost every day after my surgery for 3 weeks, slowly starting ... Read more
Geoff Curtis I also get ocular migraines, got them almost every day after my surgery for 3 weeks, slowly starting to go away. Good luck
Michele Renee Hello All! I am dealing with ocular migraines and vertigo ever since surgery! I am seeing my primary ... Read more
Michele Renee Hello All! I am dealing with ocular migraines and vertigo ever since surgery! I am seeing my primary today and have seen my optometrist twice now with no explanations! Its been almost a year since surgery!!! They have gotten a little bit better, but I do not like them!
Suzette Schear I have had the migraines up till last month. 10 months post op. I still get vertigo, collapsed . I ... Read more
Suzette Schear I have had the migraines up till last month. 10 months post op. I still get vertigo, collapsed . I have been searching for answers had every test and my neurologist had blood work and for me after searching I had a vitamin deficiency. I can’t do escalators and the vertigo comes and goes.
I am seeing Dr McCarthy as an option for surgery on the home page here. I have been told he no longer performs surgeries. Just wanted to let people know this ...Read more
I am seeing Dr McCarthy as an option for surgery on the home page here. I have been told he no longer performs surgeries. Just wanted to let people know this is what I was told by Northwestern. I believe Dr Johnston is the new surgical director and chief cardiac surgeon now.
I know this is an old post but just in case! I saw Patrick McCarthy initially at Northwestern Chicago last year. When I reached out to him regarding my need for mitral valve replacement, he put me in touch with his partner Kevin Hodges, also at Northwestern Chicago.
He is featured in a video with Adam Pick “5 Warning Signs You May Need Heart Valve Surgery”.
I had a virtual consult with him on 01/08/25 and was scheduled for surgery that same day. My surgery is scheduled for 02/11/05. ... Read more
I know this is an old post but just in case! I saw Patrick McCarthy initially at Northwestern Chicago last year. When I reached out to him regarding my need for mitral valve replacement, he put me in touch with his partner Kevin Hodges, also at Northwestern Chicago.
He is featured in a video with Adam Pick “5 Warning Signs You May Need Heart Valve Surgery”.
I had a virtual consult with him on 01/08/25 and was scheduled for surgery that same day. My surgery is scheduled for 02/11/05.
From the video, the virtual consult and the fact that he is Dr. McCarthy’s partner have put my mind at ease all around. Total trust.
Best wishes! Sorry if I comment a long time after initial posts. New here.
I live in Lockport, IL, not so far from McHenry. Love taking the train downtown. Northwestern is about a mile down beautiful Michigan Avenue, across the river. I love Chicago!!
Kimberly Eisenhut When I called, they just brushed me off. I will try again I guess. I am glad you were able to get to ... Read more
Kimberly Eisenhut When I called, they just brushed me off. I will try again I guess. I am glad you were able to get to see him.
Hoping the valve team can come up with a safe, affective repair for me soon.
Love and good wishes
So far my back is not tiching too much though, which is good! Wish I could take a pic of my back to show you how silly it looks, LOL!