inferior wall

[scooter489]

I just completed a stress test.  Test showed an abnormality of the inferior walls.  the Doctor wants to do a catherization.  I am going on a four month vacation 4 days after this procedure.

I want to postpone catherization until I get back in 4 months.

Results of test showed medium risk
Do I seem unreasonable to wait?

[kenkeith]

QUOTE: "Results of test showed medium risk
Do I seem unreasonable to wait?"

Its not unusual to postpone a non-emergency intervention with a cath. What's the source for medium risk (risk for what)? We all advise to consult with your doctor as you may be well aware without comment.  If have listed the pros and cons for decision,  that would be the consideration.  Personally, I would wait until returning from a vacation, if for no other reason to have treating doctor be available subsequent to the procedure.

[ed34]

The only one who can really answer your question is the cardiologist. He/she has all your records and information. Maybe he/she will be willing to continue on medication for the time you are away, or adjust them. Are you flying for your vacation? I was told no flying for 6 weeks after my stenting on both occasions.

[kenkeith]

There is some risk with a cath such as clots, inflammation, bleeding at the site of the cath insertion, and that could put damper on your vacation plans. Also, there is a probability of restenosis within short period of time after a cath, and I assume there is going to be a stent implant.  After your vacation you will be home for any followup on the cath procedure, etc..

Whether you can delay for a few months depends on your heart issues, and whether or not you have symptoms that can't be controlled with medication.  Any concomitant health issues, general health, etc.  

Unless your doctor considers your condition warrants immediate attention, and you may inquire an consult with your doctor, there shouldn't be any problem to put off until you return.

To have some artery blockage is not an emergency, I have known for going on 7 years that I have 72% blockage of an artery and 100% blockage of the LAD.  I take a nitrate prior to going to the gym 3 times a week for a workout to avoid any chest pains

[OndEdge]

Don't wait. I have been through many caths. They aren't a big deal and it is the only difinitive way for a Doctor to tell.  Because the actually see the issue. Most caths are done on simple out patient procedure and if everthing is OK then go on the vacation stress free. Don't gamble with your life.  Take it from a guy who had a sudden death heart attack at 37. Another MI at 38 and ended up with 7 stents. I had stress tests, 3d cat scans of my heart, ekgs, echocardiograms.  And everything always looked fine. I was a a perfect wieght and exercized.  My issue is genetics and triglicerides.  Had another MI in Dec of '08 and a cath showed I needed a quadruple by-pass. I was 43 and had all the 'tests done' 6 months prior and was told I looked great and keep taking all my meds. I have always had the best Doctors and have had case studies on me.  Cardiology is not something to chance.  You don't want to be in some far off vacation spot if something where to happen. Minutes and training count.  I hate to say it but based on my experience only a cath will show the truth. Despite the risk (and there is some). I now have one done every year instead of all the other tests. It was hard convincing my Doctors but my records prove it. Cardiology is not an exact science with their 'prediction' tests.  I wish you the best. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask. And let me know your decision.