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Heart Disease: Let’s Talk About the Emotional Side
Heart & Blood Health | Last Active: Oct 1, 2023 | Replies (132)Comment receiving replies
Hi, as I read the various posts, I am inspired as to the honestly and courage so many have. I’ve hesitated sharing my concerns because I come from the school that “you don’t hang your dirty laundry in public”. But needless to say here I am.
I was taken via ambulance to the hospital with severe palpitations after taking 3 doses of nitroglycerin. After some tests I was told I had a blockage and needed a stent put in immediately. Upon further tests they found an aneurysm measuring 4.5 cm. As it turned out they had to put in two stents. So after a few days in the hospital I was sent home and told I needed a follow-up ct scan to monitor any increase in size.
Well I’ve been participating in cardiac rehab and eating well. I can’t shake the idea that I’m a walking time bomb. This past Thursday I went for my first follow up cat scan and I feel like my life is on hold. I can’t seem to stop worrying about the results which won’t be till Tuesday or Wednesday of next week. I’m not usually a worrier but this new condition has shaken my whole mental stability. Thank you for having a place that I can share my concerns. I will post my results next week. Thank you for listening.
Replies to "Hi, as I read the various posts, I am inspired as to the honestly and courage..."
Just wanted to reply to the many we’ll wishers. I received the results of my aortic contrast cat scan. Thank God everything came out well. No change in size or new growth. So my anxiety was for naught. Have to go back for another cat scan in January. So I can pursue my budding new relationship with a deep breath and joy. Thank you once again for the support.
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Hi Grandchild, I am sorry you have been having all these issues thrust on you, all at one time. That must be overwhelming. The good news is that your aneurysm was found before you were in serious trouble. The size and rate of growth will be monitored and if it grows sufficiently to require repair, you will be ready. Sometimes these aneurysms grow extremely slowly and never need repair. So, don't be discouraged and consider it fortunate that you and your cardiologist are now aware of this issue. My aneurysm was diagnosed about 13 years ago and it has hardly grown at all. But when first diagnosed, like you, I thought it would "blow" any day. It didn't.
Your cardiologist will give you advice on limiting lifting heavy items or straining in any way. For me, the limit is 25 lbs. and I am careful to stay well below that.
I wish you good health and a very slow growth on the aneurysm.
Donna