Aa
Tachycardia in a woman in her 20's
I am 28-years-old, female, never pregnant; do not smoke, drink or do drugs, and I've had Tachycardia since I was 25-years-old. I also stay at a prehypertensive BP with fluctuations up to stroke range (without medication).
When I was 25, I suddenly felt dizzy, couldn't breathe, my heart was pounding, racing and, I at first thought it was a strange anxiety attack. But it got worse over several minutes and I realized it wasn't. I then called 911. At the ER, they hooked me up to monitors and pumped me full of beta blockers and sedatives. They never did any heart tests (they were ordered, but the staff hadn't come in several hours later), so I felt mostly better, so I checked myself out. But the ER doctor said to make an APPT with my doctor soon about it, because he didn't think it was caused by anxiety. So I went in a few days later, and my GP thought it could be serious, so she had me wear a halter monitor for a few days. It was sent to a Cardiologist in a city a few hours away. Several weeks later, I got a call from my doctors nurse, saying the Cardiologist said it was "Tachycardia" - but no specific kind, and said 'unknown cause or additional conditions', and that was all. My then, GP said to come back in a few weeks if it is still there and she'd put me on a beta-blocker. But I wanted to know what was wrong with me. I never went on anything, because I hoped it'd go away, or I'd find out what it was, rather than cover up the cause. My resting rate was 80 beats over the normal, my GP said back 3 years ago when it started.
Over time, I started monitoring it, and on average it ranged between 140-180 - sometimes in the 120's, but generally higher. I stopped smoking, drinking (though I didn't drink often or much), stopped eating carbs whenever possible, stopped eating sugar. etc. I tried vitamins, teas. etc. Nothing. I did notice anxiety and sugar can worsen my high heart rate, but nothing has seemed to cause it, it's just always there, no matter what I am doing. I finally gave up and went in to a new clinic (I've moved states since) and I saw a PA-C, and she put me on Propranolol. She started at 20mg at night before bed. The first 1-2 weeks, it worked, mostly, I had almost forgotten what it felt like to not be amped up, agitated and uncomfortable all the time. But it stopped working. So my heart rate was going over 100 again, and she put me on 20mg in the am and pm. Well, it's keeping me somewhat stable for part of the day. I notice it wears off 4-6 hours after I take it. She's prescribed Propranolol extended-release. But I am so sensitive to everything - foods, excitement (even a happy small excitement can cause my heart to go off when medicated), stress, anxiety, noise, walking, etc. The PA-C is really nice, but she said it isn't important to find out the cause, but I really want to know. I think it's important. This really scares me. With my Tachycardia, I have: rapid heart rates, palpitations, dizziness, feel faint, trouble sleeping, and triggers anxiety. The doctor said my heart and lungs do not sound abnormal.
As a background:
*I was sick for about 10 years ( approx. 5-15 y/o) with tonsil infections - I was on antibiotics the whole time, until I had my massive infected tonsils and adenoids removed
*I've had unexplained stomach pains and problems since I was a child; as an adult it was labeled IBS
*I was allergic to all formulas as a baby, other than soy
*I've had migraines since my teens
*I have Endometriosis and have never had a regular cycle
*I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia when I was 20
*I've tested borderline-hypothyroidism in the past, but is normal now
*Up until I developed Tachycardia, I had a low heart rate
*I have Hidradenitis Supprativa
*Chronic sinus infections that are unable to get rid of, and since I was a child
*Livedo Reticularus
*Clinical depression
*PTSD
*Social anxiety
*Mild Asperger Syndrome
_____________
I am on Tramadol and Cyclobenzaprine for Fibromyalgia. I've been on the Cyclobenzaprine for 8 years. Tramadol for 2.
(all that comes to mind, at the moment)
Can someone help me? I don't know what to do, and I'm so tired. I have a feeling if medications don't sort it enough, I will hit a dead end on this. I would really like to find out what's really going on with me, rather than doctors saying they don't know, but not to worry about looking, because it might not be serious. Please, someone?
When I was 25, I suddenly felt dizzy, couldn't breathe, my heart was pounding, racing and, I at first thought it was a strange anxiety attack. But it got worse over several minutes and I realized it wasn't. I then called 911. At the ER, they hooked me up to monitors and pumped me full of beta blockers and sedatives. They never did any heart tests (they were ordered, but the staff hadn't come in several hours later), so I felt mostly better, so I checked myself out. But the ER doctor said to make an APPT with my doctor soon about it, because he didn't think it was caused by anxiety. So I went in a few days later, and my GP thought it could be serious, so she had me wear a halter monitor for a few days. It was sent to a Cardiologist in a city a few hours away. Several weeks later, I got a call from my doctors nurse, saying the Cardiologist said it was "Tachycardia" - but no specific kind, and said 'unknown cause or additional conditions', and that was all. My then, GP said to come back in a few weeks if it is still there and she'd put me on a beta-blocker. But I wanted to know what was wrong with me. I never went on anything, because I hoped it'd go away, or I'd find out what it was, rather than cover up the cause. My resting rate was 80 beats over the normal, my GP said back 3 years ago when it started.
Over time, I started monitoring it, and on average it ranged between 140-180 - sometimes in the 120's, but generally higher. I stopped smoking, drinking (though I didn't drink often or much), stopped eating carbs whenever possible, stopped eating sugar. etc. I tried vitamins, teas. etc. Nothing. I did notice anxiety and sugar can worsen my high heart rate, but nothing has seemed to cause it, it's just always there, no matter what I am doing. I finally gave up and went in to a new clinic (I've moved states since) and I saw a PA-C, and she put me on Propranolol. She started at 20mg at night before bed. The first 1-2 weeks, it worked, mostly, I had almost forgotten what it felt like to not be amped up, agitated and uncomfortable all the time. But it stopped working. So my heart rate was going over 100 again, and she put me on 20mg in the am and pm. Well, it's keeping me somewhat stable for part of the day. I notice it wears off 4-6 hours after I take it. She's prescribed Propranolol extended-release. But I am so sensitive to everything - foods, excitement (even a happy small excitement can cause my heart to go off when medicated), stress, anxiety, noise, walking, etc. The PA-C is really nice, but she said it isn't important to find out the cause, but I really want to know. I think it's important. This really scares me. With my Tachycardia, I have: rapid heart rates, palpitations, dizziness, feel faint, trouble sleeping, and triggers anxiety. The doctor said my heart and lungs do not sound abnormal.
As a background:
*I was sick for about 10 years ( approx. 5-15 y/o) with tonsil infections - I was on antibiotics the whole time, until I had my massive infected tonsils and adenoids removed
*I've had unexplained stomach pains and problems since I was a child; as an adult it was labeled IBS
*I was allergic to all formulas as a baby, other than soy
*I've had migraines since my teens
*I have Endometriosis and have never had a regular cycle
*I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia when I was 20
*I've tested borderline-hypothyroidism in the past, but is normal now
*Up until I developed Tachycardia, I had a low heart rate
*I have Hidradenitis Supprativa
*Chronic sinus infections that are unable to get rid of, and since I was a child
*Livedo Reticularus
*Clinical depression
*PTSD
*Social anxiety
*Mild Asperger Syndrome
_____________
I am on Tramadol and Cyclobenzaprine for Fibromyalgia. I've been on the Cyclobenzaprine for 8 years. Tramadol for 2.
(all that comes to mind, at the moment)
Can someone help me? I don't know what to do, and I'm so tired. I have a feeling if medications don't sort it enough, I will hit a dead end on this. I would really like to find out what's really going on with me, rather than doctors saying they don't know, but not to worry about looking, because it might not be serious. Please, someone?
I'm glad you got some answers and that you're heart is still ok. As far as I know Graves is treatable so hopefully treating it will help you get rid of the Tachycardia.
Well at least you are getting some answers and are catching it before any damage is done to your heart. Hopefully if they can get you regulated you can start to feel better. I would suggest checking out the thyroid section on this forum. I am sure they would be able to answer your questions way better than I could. I had rather low t numbers once and so my doctor checked. I didn't have it but I checked out the thyroidism section on here and learned some things. Anyways, sounds like it is time for you to learn a bit about what is going on so you know what to expect and what you should and shouldn't do. Best of luck with it all but please do keep me posted on how you are.
Well, I just got back. The Endo says he's almost positive that I have Graves' Disease and probably have for about 5 years now. I'm a little overwhelmed, as he said if untreated, it can lead to pretty much frying the thyroid and causing my heart to wear out faster than it should. So the Tachycardia is a result of the thyroid being overactive and the adrenaline and that's a result of the Graves' Disease.
Considering your family history I am very glad to hear you are seeing an endocrinologist. I am sure it is not unheard of for people to fluctuate all over the place with thyroid levels and the levels being off can cause all sorts of other issues in the body. Can't say this will correct all the issues you mentioned but sounds like you are on the right path for now. Take care Please do keep us posted on how it goes. There is also a section for thyroid issues you may want to check out.
UPDATE:
I went back to the clinic on Friday. Unfortunately, I couldn't get all the tests done that I wanted, since they only had afternoon appts open. But I got my Glucose and Thyroid checked. I got a call yesterday morning, and the nurse said I have Hyperthyroidism. Which confuses me, because I generally have that checked every couple years. Like 5ish years ago, I was borderline HYPOthyroidism; in 2012, I was normal; and now in 2014, HYPERthyroidism. I really want to get the Adrenals and Cortisol checked; I've thought about it for too long to not do it now that I have the chance to do it. So the nurse immediately booked an appt with an Endocrinologist yesterday; it was for the 30th of July, and then this morning, I get a call from the Endo's office saying there was a cancellation for tomorrow and I was put at the top of the ASAP list for people to take the slot for tomorrow at 10am. So hopefully 10am is early enough to get the tests done. Crossing my fingers. I have a big feeling there is more going on then a little bit of elevated Thyroid. At one point, I had a doctor speculate that I could have Cushing's, but then when the Tachycardia and some other stuff surfaced, I completely forgot about that. Wish me luck, guys!
PS- Thank you so much for your suggestions and support, Michelle and Jenn. =)
I went back to the clinic on Friday. Unfortunately, I couldn't get all the tests done that I wanted, since they only had afternoon appts open. But I got my Glucose and Thyroid checked. I got a call yesterday morning, and the nurse said I have Hyperthyroidism. Which confuses me, because I generally have that checked every couple years. Like 5ish years ago, I was borderline HYPOthyroidism; in 2012, I was normal; and now in 2014, HYPERthyroidism. I really want to get the Adrenals and Cortisol checked; I've thought about it for too long to not do it now that I have the chance to do it. So the nurse immediately booked an appt with an Endocrinologist yesterday; it was for the 30th of July, and then this morning, I get a call from the Endo's office saying there was a cancellation for tomorrow and I was put at the top of the ASAP list for people to take the slot for tomorrow at 10am. So hopefully 10am is early enough to get the tests done. Crossing my fingers. I have a big feeling there is more going on then a little bit of elevated Thyroid. At one point, I had a doctor speculate that I could have Cushing's, but then when the Tachycardia and some other stuff surfaced, I completely forgot about that. Wish me luck, guys!
PS- Thank you so much for your suggestions and support, Michelle and Jenn. =)
I'm sorry you are going through this. Borderline hyperthyroidism can cause Tachycardia and palpitations, and it can also be autoimmune related. Hyperthyroidism can go away and then come back, especially if it is autoimmune. You said that hypothyroidism and autoimmune disease is in your family. Hashimoto's, which is an autoimmune disease that typically causes hypothyroidism, often causes bouts of hyperthyroidism. Also, some doctors rely on TSH and don't check T3 and T4, so you could still have hyperthyroidism without knowing. The Thyroid Forum provides lots of information about these things and how doctors often miss or misdiagnose thyroid conditions. I would strongly encourage you to tested for thyroid antibodies (Tg, TPO, TSI) and go to a good endocrinologist that checks TSH, T3, and T4 levels.
Have you had an echocardiogram?
You could also have vagus nerve damage from the GERD. I think a neurologist can test for this (and possibly test for other causes of Tachycardia).
Good luck and I really hope you get better soon!
Have you had an echocardiogram?
You could also have vagus nerve damage from the GERD. I think a neurologist can test for this (and possibly test for other causes of Tachycardia).
Good luck and I really hope you get better soon!
Michelle,
Yes, I've had ANAs. I have a Rheumatologist for my Fibromyalgia, he is watching for autoimmune diseases, since she had Sjogren's and Lupus. I didn't get a positive on anything specific, but he said I did get a positive ANA last time. But I don't have anything that I know of . . . yet.
Yes, I've had ANAs. I have a Rheumatologist for my Fibromyalgia, he is watching for autoimmune diseases, since she had Sjogren's and Lupus. I didn't get a positive on anything specific, but he said I did get a positive ANA last time. But I don't have anything that I know of . . . yet.
Just to be clear, and do check this with your cardiologist, but I don't think tachycardia in the atria will ever lead to cardiac arrest, if it does it is rare. It can wear the heart down and cause heart failure in the long run but cardiac arrest generally happens when a person has unresolved ventricular tachycardia and you don't have that. Though if you have structural problems with the heart that may leave you vulnerable. Having an echo done would rule that out and give you peace of mind. Also have you been tested for the autoimmune disease your grandmother had? I kind of think with all your issues you may want to really consider trying Mayo. Or some place that will look at your whole body and all that is going on to try and put the pieces together. There could be an interconnection. But if that isn't something you want to tackle then just take one thing at a time. And first on my list would be blood work to check to see if you have any imbalances like thyroid issues, then I might push to get my heart evaluated structurally and then I would push the adrenal gland. Once you have piece of mind on that then work with your GP on whom to see next to try and figure it out. As odd as it sounds it can help move the process along. But above all just take it as slow as you need to but be persistent. You know your body and you have a right to go down every avenue you feel necessary to find a possible diagnosis. And feel free to post here on this forum or any of the other medical forums on this site. There are all sorts of them. And you are welcome to pm me if you just need to talk as well. Hang in there. I didn't have as many issues as you but I did go through a time with a few medical issues that were continually blown off as stress when I knew it was something more and I had to just keep at it with the doctor until I eventually got the tests I needed to figure out what was wrong. I can't promise you will find an answer but at least you can live your life knowing you did your very best to take care of you.
Michelle,
Thanks for the response. I don't feel as overwhelmed now. I've read a lot of what you've mentioned, but it can be so overwhelming at the end of the day, and then it is like I'm spinning, and like which do I ask for. Because since there is no easy thing to point this at, when I ask if we can do testing to try to find out what it is, I don't get very far because I don't know what exactly I wanted tested. I guess I should have everything tested. And you're right, it is very harsh and tiring. I am afraid I'm going to wear my heart out eventually, and having a heart beat that can range from 140-180, can result in cardiac arrest, from what I've read.
As for the questions:
I used to have Acid Reflux problems, but it was found out that I had H. Pylori, and after two doctors, 4 years, 2 scopes and 2 times of two rounds of 3 antibiotics, I no longer have it. After I got rid of it, I no longer had stomach acid problems - just the general IBS symptoms, mostly.
I don't drink caffeine at all. Or energy drinks. My grandmother always frowned upon lots of caffeine (she was a nurse for several years at a hospital and then nursing home, so she was like the family adviser - but she sadly passed away a few years ago due to complications of autoimmune diseases, MRSA, heart failure and Alzheimer's). I guess people in the family - namely me as I am mainly the one with most of the health problems - are lost without her guidance of what the say and how to ask for things. But she did bluntly tell people what not to do. So I used to drink half-caffeinated coffee on occasion when I was in my teens, but I noticed it made my heart feel funny, and triggered headaches, so I completely cut that out years before I even got Tachycardia.
I shouldn't be dehydrated. I drink tons of water. I drink anywhere from 4-6 pints of water a day (sometimes more, if I've been in the heat. But I try avoid that as I have heat and light sensitivies)
I think you're right. I'm sure there's something out there causing it, but the question is, what road it's down. I, too, have wondered if it was adrenal or hormonal related. I haven't considered *hyper*thyroidism, as *hypo*thyroidism is all that's in my family, and I have trouble losing weight and am not overly-thin. I might as well have the levels checked, though. I haven't in awhile.
Thanks again for the suggestions and the support. It is much appreciated. I don't really have a lot of support or guidance by family. I go back to the clinic in a couple weeks for another med check, so I think I will try to see if she won't run these tests. Because I know there is more to this than just anxiety and I don't think it's solely my heart, as my heart *seems* to sound fine, other than being massively fast. (what the doctors have said, anyway). So I will keep you all updated on what I find out and how I am. I think the mystery of this would be so fascinating, if it wasn't so miserable. haha.
Thanks for the response. I don't feel as overwhelmed now. I've read a lot of what you've mentioned, but it can be so overwhelming at the end of the day, and then it is like I'm spinning, and like which do I ask for. Because since there is no easy thing to point this at, when I ask if we can do testing to try to find out what it is, I don't get very far because I don't know what exactly I wanted tested. I guess I should have everything tested. And you're right, it is very harsh and tiring. I am afraid I'm going to wear my heart out eventually, and having a heart beat that can range from 140-180, can result in cardiac arrest, from what I've read.
As for the questions:
I used to have Acid Reflux problems, but it was found out that I had H. Pylori, and after two doctors, 4 years, 2 scopes and 2 times of two rounds of 3 antibiotics, I no longer have it. After I got rid of it, I no longer had stomach acid problems - just the general IBS symptoms, mostly.
I don't drink caffeine at all. Or energy drinks. My grandmother always frowned upon lots of caffeine (she was a nurse for several years at a hospital and then nursing home, so she was like the family adviser - but she sadly passed away a few years ago due to complications of autoimmune diseases, MRSA, heart failure and Alzheimer's). I guess people in the family - namely me as I am mainly the one with most of the health problems - are lost without her guidance of what the say and how to ask for things. But she did bluntly tell people what not to do. So I used to drink half-caffeinated coffee on occasion when I was in my teens, but I noticed it made my heart feel funny, and triggered headaches, so I completely cut that out years before I even got Tachycardia.
I shouldn't be dehydrated. I drink tons of water. I drink anywhere from 4-6 pints of water a day (sometimes more, if I've been in the heat. But I try avoid that as I have heat and light sensitivies)
I think you're right. I'm sure there's something out there causing it, but the question is, what road it's down. I, too, have wondered if it was adrenal or hormonal related. I haven't considered *hyper*thyroidism, as *hypo*thyroidism is all that's in my family, and I have trouble losing weight and am not overly-thin. I might as well have the levels checked, though. I haven't in awhile.
Thanks again for the suggestions and the support. It is much appreciated. I don't really have a lot of support or guidance by family. I go back to the clinic in a couple weeks for another med check, so I think I will try to see if she won't run these tests. Because I know there is more to this than just anxiety and I don't think it's solely my heart, as my heart *seems* to sound fine, other than being massively fast. (what the doctors have said, anyway). So I will keep you all updated on what I find out and how I am. I think the mystery of this would be so fascinating, if it wasn't so miserable. haha.
Please do not at all feel silly. Mostly people do come here looking for answers. But like Bromley said, your case is very complex and probably over what most of us have experienced but that doesn't mean you shouldn't post here but just that we may not have enough answers for you as only patients ourselves. There is a doctors forum you can post in and I would definitely give that a try as well possibly give Mayo a try like Bromley said
The thing is if the doctors don't think you have an accessory pathway svt like wpw then it could be that something outside your heart is causing your high rate. You did mention a number of conditions that could be contributors. Stomach issues will raise a person's heart rate so if you have anything like acid reflux try and get that sorted out and see if it helps. As well do stay away from caffeine or energy drinks. I know you mentioned cutting a lot out but did not see if these were cut. Hyperthyroidism is a problem that can cause a rapid heart beat so if you haven't had it checked in a while go back and see where your numbers are at. Something like dysautonomia might be an issue. There are tests that can be done to see if that is an issue for you. As well maybe see if you can have your adrenal gland checked. From what I understand issues with that can cause all sorts of problems. Finally are any or your meds contributing or any combinations contributing. Can any of the meds cause dehydration? Dehydration itself is a major contributor to tachycardia.
No matter what I think you could stand to have a full workup like they would do at Mayo because there are a lot of issues going on. Until then I would say try and drink lots of water. It helps the heart function better and maybe try and take up yoga and/or meditation or make it a point to try and do deep breathing as much as you can. Anything and everything that can help calm your heart and nervous system may help. And never give up the search. What you are experiencing isn't considered a threat but it is taxing on the heart and it is best you try and see if you can get it under control for the long term health of your heart. But things like these can be like finding a needle in a haystack. So be persistent. I wish you luck and strength as you try to get to the bottom of this and get a handle on it all. Take care and stay strong. Please keep us posted on how you are doing.
The thing is if the doctors don't think you have an accessory pathway svt like wpw then it could be that something outside your heart is causing your high rate. You did mention a number of conditions that could be contributors. Stomach issues will raise a person's heart rate so if you have anything like acid reflux try and get that sorted out and see if it helps. As well do stay away from caffeine or energy drinks. I know you mentioned cutting a lot out but did not see if these were cut. Hyperthyroidism is a problem that can cause a rapid heart beat so if you haven't had it checked in a while go back and see where your numbers are at. Something like dysautonomia might be an issue. There are tests that can be done to see if that is an issue for you. As well maybe see if you can have your adrenal gland checked. From what I understand issues with that can cause all sorts of problems. Finally are any or your meds contributing or any combinations contributing. Can any of the meds cause dehydration? Dehydration itself is a major contributor to tachycardia.
No matter what I think you could stand to have a full workup like they would do at Mayo because there are a lot of issues going on. Until then I would say try and drink lots of water. It helps the heart function better and maybe try and take up yoga and/or meditation or make it a point to try and do deep breathing as much as you can. Anything and everything that can help calm your heart and nervous system may help. And never give up the search. What you are experiencing isn't considered a threat but it is taxing on the heart and it is best you try and see if you can get it under control for the long term health of your heart. But things like these can be like finding a needle in a haystack. So be persistent. I wish you luck and strength as you try to get to the bottom of this and get a handle on it all. Take care and stay strong. Please keep us posted on how you are doing.
Thank you for your suggestions, Bromley! Sorry if it looked like I was trying to get a diagnosis out of you. I feel silly.
No problem, people here want to help. This is the heart rhythm support forum. Its an active forum. Occasionally doctors contribute, but that is an exception. If you want to, you can try one of the expert forums on this medhelp website. Those have doctors. You could check to see how active the expert forum is before posting. Sometimes the doctor is not that available.
As another alternative, consider seeing a doctor in person. Mayo is easy to get to and they get good results. Minneapolis is a great town to visit.
Best of luck.
As another alternative, consider seeing a doctor in person. Mayo is easy to get to and they get good results. Minneapolis is a great town to visit.
Best of luck.
I guess I posted this in the wrong place. I *thought* this was open to regular members and doctors. Sorry.
Ok. This description is more complex than what the heart rhythm patients (us on this forum) normally deal with, at least medicine-wise. I think that your history with these technically challenging conditions would probably make a serious analysis by one of us almost foolish, and at the same time qualifies you to be looked at by a more exceptional medical doctor. For instance maybe someone at the Mayo Clinic could help you sort this one out or give you some useful ideas as to what to do next. They are notorious for coming up with answers in situations like yours. You can easily find the website online and look for a medical professional that might be able to help. Mayo in MN is actually a very nice place, and especially this time of year it easy to access. Minneapolis is a great town not far from there, and is worth the visit also.
Ok. Not to contradict myself, but it is also possible that all of this can be explained by simple explanations. No difference. Mayo can confirm this for you, helping to relieve your stress and anxiety.
From the patient support side, there are many philosophies about medical care, and many ways and angles to giving advice. My perspective is far from perfect, but in my view there are a few realities that sufferers of long term health conditions face.
1. In order to get answers, you have to take responsibility for your health care. It is not ok to wait for doctors to make the next move, nor to wait an see whether a problem will solve itself. I dont mean to stress you out. If anything, I believe you will feel better just by going through the motions of working on the issue, whether that be by researching or making a special trip out of town to see an MD at mayo clinic or some other place like that.
2. In order to get answers, a doctor or doctors has to pursue the right testing and analysis to get all the way to the bottom of the problem. Even if you go to Mayo, you need to be inquisitive and push until all questions are answered, and a definitive diagnosis has emerged.
3. You must remain positive and determined. i.e. You can do it. Stick with it. And do not let ANY setback, or interference, even by medical professionals, stand in your way. Expect obstacles and go around if need be, do not dwell for one minute. Thankfully, even medicine is a competitive area.
4. It is important to maintain your support network. Otherwise, it will be difficult to perform 1-3.
Boy, I am sorry to hear about this and wish I knew more and could help more. There are a few other forums here at medhelp. Hopefully, you can get some support from some of the other forums (and members here) too....
Ok. Not to contradict myself, but it is also possible that all of this can be explained by simple explanations. No difference. Mayo can confirm this for you, helping to relieve your stress and anxiety.
From the patient support side, there are many philosophies about medical care, and many ways and angles to giving advice. My perspective is far from perfect, but in my view there are a few realities that sufferers of long term health conditions face.
1. In order to get answers, you have to take responsibility for your health care. It is not ok to wait for doctors to make the next move, nor to wait an see whether a problem will solve itself. I dont mean to stress you out. If anything, I believe you will feel better just by going through the motions of working on the issue, whether that be by researching or making a special trip out of town to see an MD at mayo clinic or some other place like that.
2. In order to get answers, a doctor or doctors has to pursue the right testing and analysis to get all the way to the bottom of the problem. Even if you go to Mayo, you need to be inquisitive and push until all questions are answered, and a definitive diagnosis has emerged.
3. You must remain positive and determined. i.e. You can do it. Stick with it. And do not let ANY setback, or interference, even by medical professionals, stand in your way. Expect obstacles and go around if need be, do not dwell for one minute. Thankfully, even medicine is a competitive area.
4. It is important to maintain your support network. Otherwise, it will be difficult to perform 1-3.
Boy, I am sorry to hear about this and wish I knew more and could help more. There are a few other forums here at medhelp. Hopefully, you can get some support from some of the other forums (and members here) too....
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