Thank you for your reply and sharing information. I have heard about the 3 pound rule, and this is why it alarmed me so. I have been extremely diet conscious for many years prior to the accident, and this whole event has me extremely cautious. My sodium levels are really quite good. That said, most of that 3 pound weight was off this morning, so likely it was water retention. I've been told I have a tremendous amount of fluid build up in my lower back (visible on MRI I guess) which must be associated with the disc herniations. I just worry about my heart now that I have had this event. Although a relapse is possible, my doctor said there are no signs or symptoms of any heart disease and my heart catheterization showed my arteries were clean. My follow up 2 months after the accident showed my EF at a solid 60 and my left ventricle is working again. Maybe I just need to keep an eye on all my vitals and contact doctor with any other sudden changes. Thank you again for your post.