About Me (In My Own Words)
Background
I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation in January of 2009. Indications of the condition were observed from an EKG performed during an annual physical. Subsequently, a cardiologist scheduled me for a stress test. My heart was beating normally at the beginning of the stress test, but went into fibrillation as the test progressed. As a result of some indications of blockage during the test, a heart catheter was performed the same day which resulted no indications of blockages.
I have been taking medication for the atrial fibrillation since then. Based on subsequent tests, and a heart monitor I wore for three weeks at a time twice, I have alternated between normal rhythm and fibrillation since then. I usually do not know whether or not my heart is fibrillating as the symptoms are not noticeable to me.
In checkup in July 20, 2011, I was fibrillating and the cardiologist decided to try a cardioversion to return me to normal rhythm.
During the cardioversion procedure on 08/04/2011, a Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) was performed to check for clots in the heart. Mitral Valve Regurgitation (3+) was observed at that time. Two attempts were made to return me to normal rhythm without success.
The cardiologist discussed my situation with a heart surgeon that day at the hospital and I met the heart surgeon later that day before being discharged from the hospital and learned a bit more about my condition. It was a big shock to learn about the problem and the surgery.
The cardiologist subsequently performed right and left side catheters, right and left coronary arteriograms and left ventricular cineangiogram on 08/15/2011 and found some blockage in a side branch. I was not fibrillating at this time.
I met with my cardiologist again on August 24th. He turned me over to the heart surgeon for further evaluation and treatment. I met with him on Thursday, 09/01/2011. I feel good about having the surgery, and about the surgeon, and his nurse, as I seemed to connect well with both of them. He is young (37) and just getting started in his practice after many years of study and training. He actually performed his Fellowship in Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery at the Shands Hospital at the University of Florida. I have heard very good things about his skill as a surgeon.
I have scheduled the surgery for September 14th. I went to the hospital on the 8th and had the pre-surgery tests and additional explanations about the process in preparation for the surgery. The only concern I have at the moment is that either I have sinus/allergy issues, or have gotten a bit of a cold. I stayed home from work on the 7th in an effort to rest up and recover from whatever it is.
So, now, I need to try and rest up, and finish making arrangements before the surgery. Fortunately, I have my children many other friends who have offered various types of support to me. 09/08/2011
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Loudon, Tennessee
