Monitoring cardiac health

[Kiwi01]

In November I had two stents implanted.  My presenting problem was pain in the right arm, especially on exertion.  My doctors are proposing to monitor me with stress echos.  What is the best and least invasive way to monitor my situation especially since my presenting pain was not typical.  I also have a left bundle branch block on EKG.  Thank you your advice.

[CCF CARDIO MD - DLB]

I think your doctor's approach sounds reasonable. Periodic stress echocardiograms would be a good way of monitoring your heart, especially if there is a baseline stress echo for comparison. However, if your symptoms, even though somewhat atypical, recur, you should bring this to the attention of your doctor. Given your left bundle, regular exercise stress tests would not be useful.

[Recall, Laura Green]

It's been 1y/2mos. since I had my Mitral Valve Replaced due to Rheumatic Fever/Heart Disease.  My question is I was cut from right breast to left breast.  It is taking this long to heal & I am about 70% recovered & to be honest I felt better before the surgey.  What happens now that the St. Jude Model I have been recalled?  Do I need to have this happen to me all over again because I am not willing to go through no more surgeies like this!  I had heart disease since the age of 10.  I stll have the stroke sympotoms blindness, palpitations and numbness.  Everytime I go to my Dr. he says it's in my head!  Do anyone else have that same problem?  How are we suppose to handle having a recalled object keeping you alive.  I called my Dr. when i heard about the recall & he told me he never heard of such and to not worry.  Tell me what happens now?   Are there steps I should be taking?  Thank You for this forum, I hope you could take more questions for people like me in need!

[Gina]

Hi Lauren

I am 31 and had my mirtal valve replaced last year also.
Had a few complications, and I agree I sometimes feel
worse than before the surgery. The coumadin is a pain.
Anyway, if it is any comfort to you it is my understanding
that only one patients valve had to be replaced. They just want
you to keep a closer eye on it. I don't have a St.Jude valve, but the one I do have has a small ring leak. There is perfect fit. I have my echos every 6 months. Take care. Gina

[Laura Green]

Thank You very much for your comment it is a blessing to know I
am not alone.

[Dave J.]

I have been experiencing chest pressure (not pain)
along with dizziness & hot flashes for about a month.
They last for about 1 hour & 2-4 times per week.
I am 34, male.

[Carl]

I am a 34 year old white male, I am abuot 50 pounds over weight. I have been experiencing chest pain, fatigue, and night sweats for about a month.  I have limited energy.  The physician who is treating me is sending me to a cardioligist for further treatment.  He stated that my cardiac enszines are high.  What heart condition causes this to occur? Is it a certain condition or a number of conditions that could be causing this elevation?  Please reply.  Thanks