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Cancer Treatment Induced Heart Disease
This is my most recent diagnosis, which apparently is the underlying cause of my: congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, tricuspid-mitral-aortic valve problems, and goodness knows what other conditions. I have further testing at Mayo next week to help determine the extent of the damage, and whether or not I’m a candidate for valve replacement/repair. I had radiation therapy for cancer 40 years ago and have had periodic shortness of breath episodes over the years, no cause for which has been identified until now. How frustrating to learn what’s going on so late in the game. I’ve been searching for research articles but haven’t found much so far that even a highly educated layperson like me can understand. Is anyone dealing with the same or similar issues?
I’m in the process of getting my affairs in order’ (which we should all do whether a health scare or not), because this sounds like a death sentence to me. I feel like I’m suddenly in a race to dispose of my possessions and downsize my life before the grim reaper grabs me. At the same time, I’m desperate to maintain a positive attitude and find a kernel of hope in this situation.
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I was feeling ok until I read your post. Doesn’t sound like ur fighting. God bless you!
Martijwis. I am wondering if you have pursued this issue with the Mayo in Minnesota since your original post
Thanks, that’s helpful. I’ve contacted the Rochester campus and should have an update about a consultation soon.
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1 ReactionGood question, Alex. Mayo Clinic uses a team approach. Your team will be hand-picked according to your unique needs. It will likely include specialists within and across departments to evaluate your condition from fresh perspectives, specifically cardiology and oncology.
It's important to note that not all Cardio-Oncology services may be available at all Mayo Clinic locations. Be sure to inquire which location has full services.
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1 ReactionHi @colleenyoung . Thanks for the info-packed reply. Yes, my radiation heart disease is a result of chest radiation in 1988. Can you tell me, who are true general cardiologists and surgeons at Mayo who treat/specialize in patients with my history? I'd like to set up a consultation, using the links you supplied, but would like too do so knowing whom to see. Thanks, again.
Hi @ Inali
I have a very similar situation, I had breast cancer and had chemo therapy and left sided chest wall radiation, 13 years ago, they did an echo before treatment and not again until I had symptoms. 3 cardiologist agree that my cardiomyopathy and CHF were caused by the treatment, but I would have done exactly the same thing if I were in that situation again! As I had 5 tumors in my left breast and positive margins on my chest wall. This illness also ended my career as an RN due to the fatigue but I was 60 when this happened so retirement a bit earlier than expected. I heard a speech calling side effects are collateral damage. I thing that is an apt description. Good luck to you!
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1 ReactionWelcome @alex1962. Am I understanding correctly that you have heart disease as a result of radiation treatments for cancer? If yes, you may be interested in this related discussion:
- Cancer Treatment Induced Heart Disease https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/radiation-induced-heart-disease/
It sounds like you are looking for information about how to request an appointment at Mayo Clinic. Here's the contact information to call or submit a request online. You can self-refer or have your doctor refer you. http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63
Mayo Clinic offers a program to address heart problems associated with cancer treatment called cardio-oncology. The Cardio-Oncology Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/cardio-oncology-clinic/overview/ovc-20442193) evaluates people prior to cancer treatment and patients who have experienced side effects due their treatment.
Hi. I have radiation heart disease. Replaced my aortic valve 4 years ago (TAVR) and soon will need to replace the mitral valve. This will be a major operation, and a completely different procedure from what I did previously. I am seeking the names of the cardiac surgeons and general cardiologists that have the most experience with radiation heart disease. Would like to arrange for a consultation and consider treatment options.
Ginger,
I have looked into a referral to OHSU, as I know they have Oncology Cardiologists. Fortunately, it is only about an hour from where I live. I believe I am probably just beginning my cardiac journey. Right now I have the cardiologists a little baffled. It's weird to be on medication that is helping but they don't know what is causing the symptoms.
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1 ReactionLori, thank you for the links and the encouragement. I have had 3 echos over the past few years that seem to show a progressive increase in leakage from all heart valves (trace to mild still). Was just in the hospital for chest pain and had a Lexi scan, ECG and was put on a nitro drip. Imdur and Metoprolol are now controlling the chest pain. I am taking SL nitro PRN. The cardiologist wanted to do an angiogram but didn't feel that the benefits outweigh the risk as I do not have any other risk factors for CAD. I am close to OHSU so will look into referral if my symptoms continue to dictate/limit my quality of life.
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