crhp194 (@crhp194)

John, I got the Shingrix while I was on prednisone for GCA and had no reaction. Saw too many people with Shingles and including my mother. I got the vaccine when I was 74. Asked my rheumatologist at Mayo and he said no problem getting the vaccine. Take care and stay safe.

I think I must be one of the three blind mice. I don’t think I was depressed at all but did have a sense of awe. The need for open heart surgery came very fast after some tests at Mayo so I didn’t have time to think about it. I had a total arch replacement and an aneurysm repair. Was in the hospital 8 nights and had to go home with oxygen. Still, I felt well, if a bit tired. I was just so grateful to Mayo, the doctors, the kind after care…thankfulness was my main emotion. However I can certainly understand depression about heart surgery, especially for young folk. I was 72 at the time of my surgery. Whatever you feel, I hope it will ease for you. Rehab helps as you can compare notes with others who have been in the same situation. I have another aneurysm that is not quite big enough for surgery. I really don’t worry about it but do keep going for checkups each year at Mayo. I have all the faith in the world for Mayo. Best of everything to all of you heart patients! Carol

Yes it has abated some but for 3 days, it was bad. First day better today but still not gone but bearable.

Thank you, John.

Does any sufferer of PMR think that cold weather can kick off PMR? I have had giant cell arthritis in the chest for several years but PMR only once before. After being out in Florida cold (50-59 degrees) for about 4 hours and in 15mph wind on a boat for 1 hour I was extremely sore the next day but felt it was from walking on a beach and bending over. The pain and soreness continues and it makes sleeping difficult. Wondering if anyone has had this happen to them. Thank you to any who may respond.

Usually doctors will not operate until an aneurysm is 5.0. But if I were you, I wold make appointment with both the cardiologist and the vascular surgeon. You probably will need referrals to both. While the vascular surgeon would do the surgery if necessary, your husband will need a cardiologist after the surgery and before for determine if he is healthy enough for it as well as checking triglycerides etc. best of luck to you, your husband and your family. No need to worry yet.

I would add just another comment. I had an aneurysm repair along with the doctor rebuilding my arch at age 72. It was much easier than I thought it would be. I was mostly healthy going into surgery so that helped. It was done at May Clinic in Rochester by Dr. Alberto Pochettino, who is a world respected surgeon. I was older than you and really had no problems afterward. So please don’t think you are too old. Best of luck to you!

I was age 72 when I had the surgery in May 2016. I have had no problems whatsoever and live as I did before the surgery. After 4 weeks, I started rehab which went very well. Since then, I am able to do anything I want to do. Good luck to you! The surgery is scary but easier than you think. There’s only about 5 days of discomfort and that is well handled with some painmeds ut mostly Tylenol.