Test Clean

     I am a 40 year old police officer. In 2000 I experienced chest pain which took me to the ER. I was released from the ER after they found no evidence of cardiac related pains. I have been on Hypertension medication since the age of 27. In 2000 I also was given a cardiac cath which showed my arteries were "clear". I still experienced chest pains which eventually led me to be diagnosed with Anxiety and Generalized Panic Disorder.
     I am still experiencing chest pains to date. Countless EKG's, stress tests and other test have still shown no heart related cause of the pain. I had my gall bladder removed in 2007 which eased some pain. However, I still experience pain in my chest. I have now been diagnosed with GERD which my Doc advised he is 90% sure is causing the pain. We are currently exploring options to care for this since meds seem not to help.
     The question is.......How long are cardiac caths good for? Should I have another to check? I have talked to my Doc about this and he advised he thought it was not necessary. I am very concerned about my heart since my father died at the young age of 55 of a MI after being sent home from the ER with anxiety. PLEASE GIVE ME SOME GUIDANCE HERE.

[Sirenet]

Hey there, fellow officer! I retired in '99 after serious o/d MVA. Also just recently had cholecystecomy. It is possible that your gall bladder was giving you symptoms similar to heart problems (boy , do I know, lol).  Sorry to hear of your chest pains, but glad to hear that the tests show you to have a healthy heart.
   In regards to your cath, generally I believe that since your arteries are clear, you should be good for five yrs, in that regard. Of course any other symptoms, you should follow up.
   Be well, and Stay Safe  !