@peterson- I had to look up your medication as I don't have heart problems. "Diltiazem is used to treat high blood pressure and to control angina (chest pain). Diltiazem is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

It's always wonderful when I find a doctor who I trust and really like and who is upfront with me. Since your heart is so important do you think that you will be looking for another cardiologist? I recommend that. PCP's are terrific, and some are brilliant but they aren't specialists. You need a heart specialist. Can you get a recommendation for one? And also for a new pulmonologist?