Breathing problems and epigastric pain - heart failure?

[Lesley998]

History - 45 year old woman diagnosed with heart murmer at birth.
In 2000 was given a quinolone for urinary tract infection.
May or may not have contributed to severe arrythmia which resulted in hospitalisation for two weeks in Coronary Care Unit.  Ultimately undiagnosed, ECG showed MI abnormal Q-T waves but arterial bloods did not confirm MI. Situation settled over two years although have since been left with palpitations and 'odd' heartbeats confirmed and monitored by yearly holter moniter.

Recently (six months) have had severe chronic epi gastric pain and belching.  Pain is ever present and behind sternum.  Endoscopy and manometry showed mild gastritis. Constant acid heartburn and sensation of 'bubbles' of gas rising in gullet when in bed. Recently symptoms include rapid thumping heart rate and waking from sleep with panicky feelings of being unable to breath and choking, relieved by sitting up. Severe chest and upper back pain.  No odema. Could this be heart failure.  Seeing GP tomorrow.  many thanks

[Lesley998]

Thanks all.

[mmfd]

Lesley it sounds like you were already diagnosed with stomach problems.  Reflux can cause severe pain, and you can wake up choking.  I have to watch what I eat and never eat anything high in fat too close to bedtime, like within 3 hours.  Also, you may want to rule out sleep apnea as you can also wake up choking and panicked and unable to breathe with that as well.  I really doubt if it is cardiac but it's a good thing you are seeing your doctor.  Also, palpitations are extremely common with normal hearts.  This forum deals with that topic about 99% of the time.  Keep on reading!

[anacyde]

I'd be extremely surprised if it was.

[Lesley998]

http://www.medhelp.org/forums/cardio/messages/35199.html