Declining RVEF and Arthritis Complications

[Beau]

Two and a half years after multiple heart attacks and subsequent open heart surgery (triple by-pass + defib implant), I am still declining on Muga tests -- now at 24.  This isn't very positive news for a 51 year old with no previous or current risk factors. My doctors appear to be on top of most things but I would like to compare my list of medications to see if anyone thinks I should look at alternatives plus I appear to be suffering from an onset of arthritis, seemingly overnight, that is likely connected to one of these medications/treatments.  I take Avapro, Toprol XL, Zestril, Hydrochlorot, and Coumadin plus a few supplements.  My BP averages 90/50, my resting pulse is 50's, and when not suffering from the arthritis I walk two miles per day.  My diet is very low fat, high in vegetables and fruit.  My cholesterol has always been good (almost low) and I have, until now, led a very active life including sports.  The original attacks were severe and may have been connected to clots they luckily found and treated before surgery and to-date they have no other idea what may have been the causes.  The defib implant has not fired since install and has not recorded any pacing activity.  Thanks for you help, nice forum.  Beau

[Beau]

Thank you for your comment -- it does help to know others have similar stories/affictions.  I have undergone some futher testing on the arthritis matters and my Orthopedist injected my knees rather than treating me with further medications (all of which interacted with the heart medications).  Seems to be effective at least over the short-term.  I am somewhat convinced that the beta-blockers (I take Toprol XL) or the Avapro are the culprits but I have not insisted on making changes or adjusting doses because I understand they are so important for the heart problems.  Good luck on your cath. Beau

[RO]

I too have developed arthritis, seemingly overnight!  I am 52 and had triple bypass in March, stents in June and Sept found out the graft had closed anyway.  I am on similar med. and also have joint stiffness...but today I could hardly walk my left foot/toe hurt so bad!  I have dealt with all this  with a postive attitude..but its getting a little much .. with the arthritis, headaches and angina.. I feel like I'm 102 instead of 52..  I just took another nuclear stress test, and found out it was abnormal.. Dr. said it could be the closed graft but the only way to know for sure was to do another heart cath!  that will make four in less than a year...I feel I may be pushing my luck!  excuse all this venting.. it helps to know I'm not the only one with complications..
ro

[ccf]

The list of medications that you are on seems good. Joint pains could be a side effect of the medications; if it started overnight, then was the timing related to a new addition of medication - this might provide you with the culprit, if it is indeed a medication. The one medication you are not on that would be recommended for someone who has had multiple heart attackes would be aspirin, though it would raise your risk of bleeding with the coumadin.