Denise's Posts

Diagnosis: Mitral Regurgitation

Member Since: November 27, 2020

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Denise L posted an update
5 years ago (January 23, 2021)
Saw the cardiologist, thought I was doing fairly well except having trouble breathing while trying to build up my walking... Apparently I don't know ****. Seems The procedure to stop AFib did not... and now they want to do another TEE and then shock my heart?! They also are putting... Read more.
You don't have to apologize here for expressing how you feel. In fact, you have a right to express it - particularly with your doctors. I would be very clear with your Cardiologist that you need answers and not evasion. Do you have someone who can come with you to... Read more.
The blood thinner is a result of the a fib, not for the tissue valve. The a fib hopefully is a temporary problem. As soon as the a fib is gone, I am sure your doc will let you get off the warfarin. A fib is an unpredictable, yet possible... Read more.
Denise - No apologies for being grumpy - it's hard to face more treatment so close to your surgery. Afib is very common and cardioversion is often very effective in returning a heart to sinus rhythm. This is just a detour in your road to recovery, you'll be back to... Read more.
So sorry Denise! Did you have a maze procedure? They do take some time to heal & be effective. I was kept on Coumadin for 6 months after my surgery in case afib occurred. After that I wore a holter monitor for a few days before I was taken off... Read more.
Denise L posted an update
5 years ago (December 27, 2020)
Pretty amazed to be almost a month post... I turn 63 tomorrow and am beginning to accept a new reality is upon me. The hospital time, which ended up being almost 12 days, and the first week after release weren't so good. But the past week has given me hope... Read more.
👍 Shannon Gray reacted to this
yeh.... I am still learning to accept the long recovery...a year? omg! but I do see progress at 8 months. just need lots of rest and not to "over do"
It does take a while. My appetite and taste buds were messed up for several months. Plus certain smells made me nauseous.
I was shocked at how difficult the initial recovery felt. For me, everything improved at about 6-8 weeks when I began taking iron supplements for anemia. Initially no food tasted right, I slept during the day and 10 hours at night and was irritable, and sad. After cardiac rehab began... Read more.
Heart surgery definitely affected my appetite. I ate, but I didn't really enjoy anything. 5 yrs later I still don't want to eat much of anything sweet. And I was so weak for a long time, so I totally hear you Denise. I spent 3 weeks in hospital and remember... Read more.
Rita, I wish it had the same effect on me. I tend to want more sweets! hahaha
You Warriors are amazing! My surgery is 1/15 for AVR, THANKS for all your input so I'll know what to expect. I have no friends or family to talk to who have had this procedure done, so you guys are a true godsend!
Denise L posted an update
5 years ago (November 28, 2020)
A little amazed to think there are less than two days until OHS and I am still 'fairly' calm. Wondering how much longer that may last or if all of a sudden the panic will set in? I have lots of reasons to feel confident that all will be well,... Read more.
You sound like you are doing the right thing- concentrate on the positive! I hope you have a smooth surgery and recovery!
Thank you Marie! Appreciate your encouragement!
I had the same feelings but overall, my recovery was quick and smooth. You’ll do great.
I believe you have done the hardest part. Seeking a help, doing all the pre-op tests, all with a positive attitude. Now let the God gifted Heart TEAM do their work. Recovery for me was pretty easy ( mid 70’s) I took it one hour at a time . My... Read more.
Keep up the positive thinking. You will do well. I will pray for your successful surgery and smooth recovery. God bless you
God will be with you during the surgery Denise. I wish you the best. Goodluck :)
I hope that your calm will last and that you sail through this.
I got that wonderful sense of calm a few days before surgery too. Mine lasted right up to go time ...hope yours does too - very best wishes Denise :).

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