About Me (In My Own Words)
I was diagnosed with rheumatic fever when I was 10 years old and was advised it had caused mitral valve stenosis. After spending a year on bed rest I was put on penicillin for appox. ten years. Although I was checked yearly I had no serious symptoms until I was in my late 50's, when I started losing my breath while dancing or excercising.
In Oct. 2001 I had a mechanical mitral valve replacement. During my catheterization the Dr. found I also had aortic valve leakage, but he chose not to repair both valves at the same time. After the surgery I never regained my energy or the stamina I had before the surgery. I have been on Coumadin, assorted beta blockers and blood pressure medication since 2001. I have gained over 50lbs, and lost over 50% of my hair which I have been told was probably due to my medications.
In 2014 I had a intestinal bleed from the coumadin and had a colectomy. Recently my symptoms have become worse, I have no energy and due to my shortness of breath I am limited to how far I can walk or do anything strenuous. My cardiologist recently told me, the time for another valve replacement is very near and I am not a candidate for the TAVR procedure. I would like to hear from anyone who has had both valves replace. Needless to say I am concerned about another open heart surgery and am curious to hear from others on their experiences and how their quality of life improved after their second surgery.
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Bradenton
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My surgery date is:
August 31, 2016
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I was diagnosed with:
Aortic Stenosis
Coronary Artery Disease
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My surgery was:
Aortic Valve Replacement
Pacemaker Implant
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My surgeon is:
Dr. Michael Duncan
