Syndrome X

[lizzie]

I've seen several questions concerning this topic and am reading the articles sited.  I just recently was in ICU for five days total.  I have a fly hx of heart disease, a pacemaker, mitral value prolapse, and several bouts of CHF and pulmonary edema.  I'm 45, 145# and watch my diet, exercise regularly.  I'm a competitive ballroom dancer and since this last episode of chest pain, the dr has taken me out of dancing for one month.  This makes the second heart cath I've had in one year.  It was negative, but the thalium stress test and EKGs were positive.  I've been put on elavil and other than making me able to sleep thru the night it doesn't seem to be helpiing.  I'm still having chest pain with excertion and SOB. I getting better slowly, but am concerned about another episode.  My question is how serious a problem is Syndrome X and what other treatments are recommended.  I'm single and have to work and giving up dancing is really not a good option for me.



Thanks



Lizzie T

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Lizzie,



Syndrome X is chest pain with angiographically normal arteries.  This may be due to spasm or small vessel disease.  You should make every atempt to modify your risk factors .  



I would have a full risk screen performed and lower your lipids, rule out diabetes and decrease your weight and exercise.



Should should have the approval of your treating physician to continue dancing.