Heart Cath??? I'm a bit nervous

[oriole]

I am 33 years old, 6 foot and 175 lbs and athletic.  I went to the ER for chest discomforst for the third time in a year yesterday (4/10) was admitted and released today (4/11).  I have had a CAT Scan, numerouse chest x-rays, ekg's and blood cardiac enzym tests all of which were normal.  I have also had a abdominal ultrasound, echo and CT Angoigram which were also normal.  Of course anxiety plays a role in this but I don't think it causes everything I am struggling with (Sinus Tach, Elevated BP, Lightheadedness)  I am on Toprol which has helped with the BP and high Heart rate.  I just need answers.  

I saw my second Cardiologist yesterday and he suggested having a Heart Cath just to completely rule out it being a cardiac issue.  I am a little nervous about this because it is invasive and there are some risks involved.  I went ahead and made an appointment for the end of April.  I trust my Cardiologist and definitrly want to put an end to this roller coaster.  

Any advice would be a welcome comfort.  thank you.  

[erijon]

There is a small risk, less than 1% I believe of a complication. Many cardiologist won't do a cath if you have had normal test results in the past unless the anxeity is controlling your life. Have you had a nuclear stress test yet? That may be a better starting point. My cardiologist is one that won't do a cath unless there is a positive finding first on a nuclear stress test. ( plus many insurance companies won't cover one) These tests are not 100% as the cath is, ut they are noted to be between 85 - 95% accurate in indicating blockages.

I know how you feel, I have been there. I had Thallium stress tests and echos along with complete cardiac workups for the past three years before my cardiologist said everything is fine and I don't need to have annual visits any loner, I started to accept it  when she said that and the anxiety levels are down.

there are many on the forum that have had caths and I'm sure will respond with first hand knowledge. I hope it all works out for you,

Good Luck,

Jon

[oriole]

Thanks so much Jon.  We will see with the insurance company.  We had to do a little navigating for the CT Angiogram.  It's a shame that insurance compamies drive so much of the decisions made in medicine.  

I know that anxiety has really had a hold on me the last year or so.  It's hard to tell if it is a result of my symptoms or the cause.

I saw the pictures of you Vets.  My father-n-law has a 66 hard-top Stingray.  It is REALLY nice.

Thanks again!

Adam