Linda's Profile

This heart valve condition is a new diagnosis for me. I have not been told of any heart problem my entire life. This past 6 months if not more I have noticed that I tire easily. I continued with my life activities of busy. Just about 4 weeks ago I noticed that I was more tired, coughed more and had some wheezing. I went to the Dr. but didn't find out anything. The next week I went to the Dr. again which led to more testing, consulting and then the diagnosis of mitral valve reguritation. I am thinking, "what does that mean"! I asked the cardiologist and he explained. My thoughts were in a whirlwind as there was no heart problem a month ago, or so I thought. How can this be? I've always been very active, wouldn't I have known if something was wrong with my heart? I am still in a fog about this however I do know that I tire easily and this is very frustrating. I can't even exercise, which I had just gotten back into after a serious fall. So here I am, having to revamp my life style. I can't say that is all bad as I do need to slow down but, "not this way"! I guess this is one of the best ways to really listen to "slow down" right?! I know everything will work out the way it should and Rob is right here with me. He had the aortic valve replaced 3 years ago on 3/14/12. Now we will both know what each side of the fence is like and can really be a support to each other. So now moving into another life chapter, I will have another electrocardiogram, an endoscopy, the heart catherization and I am sure a whole lot more prior to the surgery. I read the first book by Adam Pick when Rob had his surgery and now have read the book on mitral valve surgery. Now to plan on getting a few things lined out prior to surgery and when the energy is good.