Cardiomyopathy and so much more

Posted By Debra C. on February 07, 1999 at 19:28:18:







My 81 year old mother was diagnosed recently with cardiomyopathy. We have little knowledge of this disease except for what mom's cardiologist has told us: Low sodium diet, reduce blood pressure, and rest for 6 months.  Until I went on-line, I didn't know how serious this disease was. We would like to have another opinion re: my mother's health & we would be willing to go anywhere in order to get the most accurate answers possible and appropriate treatment. However, the doctor said my mother shouldn't fly. The doctor prescribed special stockings for mom which she puts on first thing in the morning. Putting the stockings on wears her out more than anything else.  Do they really help?  How low is 'low sodium'? What happens after the 6 month rest period?  Does the heart usually grow stronger with rest?  Is travel out of the question? Until just a few months ago, my mother was extremely active and she is going stir-crazy at home. I've listed the many other ailments & illnesses my mom has had as well as the medications she takes.
recent breast cancer survivor, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, recently goiter grew back after removal 30 yrs. ago, heart murmer & mitral valve prolapse diagnosed many years ago, emphesema (sp?), out of breath, increased appetite, thirst, anxiety, hair loss AFTER chemotherapy, bruises easily. Meds: Cozaar, Prevacid, Accupril, Synthroid, Prozac, Imdur, Furosemide, Potassium, Femara, CoQ10, Baby aspirin, Lodine, Singular, Lanoxin, Serevent, Pulmicort, Atrovent, Miacalcin, & vitamins. Symtoms (symptoms) worsened with Coreg. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.