Archived Postings from 2006 (151):
This topic has certainly become popular in the
past year. It is sometimes difficult to sort out possible allergic reactions
to the stents, or to the metal or to one of the many drugs used by heart
patients. Awareness of metal allergies is not new. This has been known
since stents were first used over a decade ago, and all package inserts
caution physicians NOT to implant stents of any sort in people who have
known allergies to stainless stell or nickel. Drug allergies, such as reactions
to Plavix, are also well-known -- but sometimes they don't manifest immediately,
and sometimes they may not be drug allergies, but a hypersensitivity reaction
to the drug-eluting stent. Trying to sort this out is the subject of a
research study now going on. As we have noted previously, Angioplasty.Org
has teamed with a group of university-based researchers who have launched
a significant study of this phenomenon, and they are looking for patients
who feel they have experienced an allergic reaction after implantation
of drug-eluting stents. For more information, email us at stent@angioplasty.org.
Your privacy will be respected and your email address will not be given
out to anyone. We will send you more information about the study and a
contact email, should you wish to pursue it. It is, to our knowledge, the
ONLY study currently being undertaken to examine the area of drug-eluting
stent hypersensitivity.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 31, 2006
I finally found something that helps. Phosphytidylcholine
(PC) IV therapy. This is not chelation, very different. My problem started
the day after a DES was inserted in my LAD artery. Felt like an elephant
on my chest the second day after my stent, and severe every day for many
months. Fever of 101 for 31 days. Also severe nausea, extreme weakness,
etc. I tried all drugs, calcium channel blockers, beta B's, anti-inflammatories,
anti-histamines, hundreds of different drugs and supplements. Nothing worked.
I had hoped for anti-histamines to help, but not helpful. I went to Thailand
for a $30,000 stem cell heart surgery with Theravitae/Vescell; it did nothing
for me whatsoever.
I then read about and took oral "Phoschol".
Google their "Phoschol" site, go to their "library" on
their site, and click the pdf e-book titled "Phosphytidylcholine as
a Membrane Therapeutic." Many government and med school studies on
Phosphytidylcholine for all diseases, and heart disease. Oral Phoschol
is a nice product, but did not help me at all. Stent folks need PC through
IV, and that worked for me to some extent. My MD gets his own IV PC bags
through a pharmacy, custom made. But there is a company PLAQUEX that also
makes it. Google the PLAQUEX site. Interesting studies, though some are
geared to sell their product. Some are product neutral IV PC studies. IV
PC takes about 40% of my pain away, not all my pain. And you have to keep
doing it once or twice a week for several weeks. It is a 2 hour drip. Instead
of feeling like I am about to die, I feel like one who has angina, nausea,
etc. I still have to have a low stress life, etc. I still can't work. Everyone
(including cardiologists) should read about IV PC, find an MD that does
it. It saved my life, (and others I have met) though it is not a perfect
treatment. It won't remove my stent, but it saved my life many times. I
was in very bad shape. But every time it gets bad I go back and get more
treatments. Even this improvement I am grateful for. It may help others
more than it helped me. I do it once a week for a few months then stop
for a while. Works far better for me than all the many drugs I have tried
(and chelation was not effective for me). E-mail me if anyone else has
had a good result with IV PC, Phosphytidylcholine or PLAQUEX. I would be
interested. More doctors should make PC available, and order their own
IV bags from a pharmacy, which is made for about $30 for doctors. Treatment
with MD costs the patient about $135 each time. The result is impressive
for one who is in trouble. I also believe it was likely responsible for
my zero calcium score I now have, shown on my CT, and raising my systolic
ejection fraction from 39 to 72, though I still have significant diastolic
dysfunction. I have records to likely prove the EF and calcium improvement.
Also, see the new study that shows proof sirolimus on
the Cypher stent kills cells, prevents collateral growth, stops necessary
angiogenesis. A well known interventionist who reviewed all my angiogram
CD's told me I now have far less microvessels everywhere below the stent
all down my left descending artery, since my stenting. Prior angio CD's
showed very healthy microvasculature. So my problem is likely this. Cypher
polymers may also be a cause, but most likely it was sirolimus (a poison
which stops cell growth) which drips downstream from the stent for 9 months.
Thus the DES problem is worse than just an allergy, rather a permanent
damage caused to nearby/downstream microvessels, perforators, collaterals,
etc. Perhaps PC brings the remaining existing microvessels and perforators
more temporarily back to life a bit. Though it is not likely that PC will
help grow new ones.
Steve G, Florida, USA, December 30, 2006
Bob -
I had a similar incident with itching. I had two Taxus 2 stents placed
in July. About a week ago I got a case of itching all over my body. I couldn't
get relief and had difficulty getting to sleep, having to get up every
5 minutes to scratch my back. The next morning it was gone and hadn't returned.
Kevin, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, December 29, 2006
Hello I have been doing a lot of research on
the topic of systemic allergic reactions to nickel and the way it interacts
with other drugs. I am highly allergic to nickel but it didn't stop there.
After discovering some drugs interact with nickel in ways no one understands
I did further research on this topic and although I am not a medical professional
in anyway this is what I think. It's just a guess. Some drugs bind with
nickel. After initial exposure to the drug and the binding occurs your
immune system recognizes this new bound antigen as that an antigen and
your immune system kicks in. It's a very individual reaction and that is
why you see so many different symptoms. I have hired a toxicologist to
help me understand what happened to me after my nickel implant.
Sharon, Colorado, USA, December 29, 2006
IS IT POSSIBLE AND LIKELY THAT THE DES TAXUS
STENT ALTERS IMMUNITY OVER TIME AND INCREASES THE ALLERGIC RESPONSE TO
PLAVIX, PRODUCING HIVES MONTHS AFTER PLAVIX WAS INTRODUCED? THIS IS MY
STORY AND EVERYONE THOUGHT IT COULD NOT BE PLAVIX, BUT IT WAS 8 MONTHS
LATER!
DENISE, PITTSBURGH PA, December 28, 2006
My father had three Medtronic drug-eluting stents
inserted during an angioplasty procedure on Dec 1,'06. After about 25 days,
he has started to get red rashes all over his body - back of the knees,
back and arms. Also a bit of swelling on his tongue. At this stage, they
are not especially painful or troublesome, but the rashes seem to be spreading.
His cardiologist is not sure what may be wrong, and referred my father
to a dermatologist, who has prescribed over-the-counter skin creams. My
father was on Plavix for about 15 days, after which he has been on another
thinner. He has been on aspirin all through. There has been no changes
in his food or environment. Thanks for any ideas.
Nagarjun K., India, December 27, 2006
To all posters in this topic about allergic reactions
after drug-eluting stents, Angioplasty.Org has just teamed with a group
of university-based researchers who are about to launch what will be a
significant study of this phenomenon, and they are looking for patients
who feel they have experienced an allergy to drug-eluting stents. For more
information, email us at stent@angioplasty.org.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 26, 2006
I had two Cypher stents placed on the back of
my heart in April of 2005. I have had a burning between my shoulder blades
since that time. Now, more recently, when I drink something cold, it burns
more intensely. I did take Plavix until one month ago. I had begun to review
this forum of information and then had a kidney stone "blasted" and definitely
had to stop taking Plavix for that reason. I bruise too easily now, so
I am not taking the Plavix. I do understand the increased risk of clotting
when not on it, but I don't want to bleed internally either. Can anyone
report on whether they have had this intense burning? Also, I did have
severe hives when I went back on Plavix after the kidney stone procedure
in late November. It took over one week for the hives/welts to go away
and heal. My other information to provide is that I know I am allergic
to stainless steel and my cardiologist did not ask about any metal allergies
prior to the procedure. Thank you all very much.
Mike Averitt, Houston, Texas, USA, December 22, 2006
Lois -- it is hard to say what the cause of your
pain is. It could be a blockage starting to form in the stent -- a stress
test will hopefully help answer this -- if there are questions you may
need to have another angiogram and, if there is a problem, have the stent
re-opened at that time. Doesn't sound like the typical allergic symptoms
that others have been reporting, but this is a new and not very well-documented
area, so please let us know what you find out.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 22, 2006
I am a 66 yr old female who had a Taxus stent
put in LAD 6 weeks ago. I have been in cardiac rehab and doing pretty good
for someone who had never exercised prior to this stent. I had a 70% narrowing,
no heart problems but found this after a CT scan so the cardiologist felt
the need to do the stent as a preventative measure. I take Plavix and aspirin
every day. Yesterday I got very severe chest pains that were crushing and
we went to the doctor's office where they said the EKG was normal and gave
me Nitro for the pain. I have never experienced anything like this and
now I am on 1 Isosorbide pill every day for two weeks when they will do
a Treadmill Myoview Stress Test to see is something is wrong. At time of
stent, all other arteries to the heart were fine. Has anyone experienced
this unbearable chest pain weeks after feeling okay after the stent was
put in? I am so depressed and scared as to why this happened as I thought
I was "fixed" as my doctor said.
Lois, Las Vegas Nevada, USA, December 22, 2006
Dawn in Michigan, I am responding to your posting
of the problems you have been having with the hive-like rash on your chest,
shoulders, back and face. Have you gotten any relief from your symptoms?
My dad is having the exact same effects and had had them for over 2 years
now. He has been everywhere for help. It has not actually spread to his
entire body. None of the doctors know what to do for him. Please share
any information with me that you can.
Sandy, Lincolnton, North Carolina, USA, December 21, 2006
My wife had stents in July (three taxus drug type
and one bare metal). She has since been getting progressively worse with
many symptoms (burning pain, muscles spasms and general very poor health).
She finally got off plavix and is feeling much better. She is still weak
hopefully she will continue to recover. She is not on statins just BP and
thyroid. She is taking aspirin for clotting,Ticlid was worse than plavix.We
found a canadian medwatch mention of this and found the patient also got
better going off plavix. We are concerned that aspirin will be sufficient
for clotting control. Going to get aspirin resistance test. Also planning
ahead with a surgeon in case she has a need for emergency surgery. I'm
also seeking advanced life support training in case. All this for a case
of stable angina. No previous heart attack.
S.M., New York, USA, December 11, 2006
Gwynne -- we'll be sending you information about
the stent hypersensitivity study.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 11, 2006
I'm writing to obtain more information about the
studies being conducted re: allergic reactions to DES. I have a Taxus stent
that was placed in August of 2005. I posted a note on your forum page while
I was in the midst of that reaction. My reaction lasted exactly 3 months.
Therefore, my cardiologist, internist, infectious disease specialist, and
I all FINALLY concurred that my reaction was probably related to the Taxol,
and not to polymer on the stent. I want to participate in this study if
I qualify. I also want to be able to have the information for future use,
if I require a second procedure. I also want to pass the information on
to my cardiologist.
Gwynne Hannum, R.N.,B.S.N., C.C.M, CHPN, St. Louis, Missouri,
USA, December 8, 2006
my husband had a Taxus stent implanted in May
of 05. Prior to implantation he was asymptomatic. After implantation he
had episodes of "feeling like he couldn't catch his breath", sweating,
extreme fatigue. These symptoms are still occurring but with less intensity,
especially after heavy physical exertion, like carrying objects from the
car or basement, gardening etc. Is anybody else experiencing symptoms like
this? Let me know.
Jojo, Ontario, Canada, December 6, 2006
I have a Boston Scientific
Taxus Express 2 in my RCA. I have not experienced any negative effects
except for itching for 2 days. In reading some of your comments I saw this
in many. I had itching over my entire body. After 24 hrs it began to subside
and I had mild itching for a few days later. Since then it has not happened
again. This was about 9 months after stent implant. It happened after I
ate some microwave popcorn so I thought I had some weird reaction to something
in the popcorn and a med i'm taking. I really don't know. Like many others
I'm on plavix, toprol xl and altace. I'm also on advicor, so I thought
maybe it was a niacin reaction. It's very difficult to discern what caused
it. Before having the stent implanted I've had a few episodes of weird
itching episodes but usually with rash. This recent reaction was itching
with no rash. Other than that I seem to be fine.
Bob, North Carolina, USA, November 30, 2006
Jeffrey -- thanks for your comments -- our only
addition is that this information IS on the front page of our website --
we have a link to this Forum Topic on possible stent allergic reactions
and if you Google "Stent
Allergy" you will also come to this topic.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, November 30, 2006
My post is in response to many sad posts I have
read on this site. I wonder why doctors tell people there is no problem
with stents, no rejection, etc., when the World Congress of Cardiology
met in Sept '06 and the announcement was that drug eluting stents are dangerous,
not useful, and should now never be used except in very unusual circumstances,
tiny vessels only, and even then only rarely. They cited recent discovered
severe problems. And the announcement was all over American TV news in
September 06'. I wonder also why people posting on this site are not aware
of this. The World Congress of Cardiology said bare metal stents should
be used less also. They announced problems of thrombosis, clotting, rejection,
allergy, etc., especially with the drug eluting stents. Some at the meeting
suggested that these problems are all related. The suggestion of many at
the conference: avoid PTCA, and if necessary just PTCA ballooning with
no stent. And if stents are necessary, bare metal only. If you don't believe
this, just Google "World College of Cardiology", and "drug eluting stent" and
you will see the many articles. I have had nothing but severe chest pain,
weakness, nausea every day since my drug eluting stent was inserted. Wish
it was never done. H2 receptor blockers (e.g. OTC Pepcid) which are essentially
antihistamines are a tiny bit helpful for me. And some (patients, cardiologists
and scientists) have the theory it will limit histamine/immune related
inflammation in the heart/vessels. Scientists are now studying this. H2
medicine has some side effects though. And stents cannot be safely removed.
Mortally dangerous to try. So one is really stuck. I have tried every remedy
possible. Nothing works. In case some wonder if my problem is esophagus
(or GERD) related symptoms, I have tried proton pump inhibitors (e.g..
Nexium) and all possible related GERD medicine. Nothing helps but occasionally
Pepcid, since the problem is not gastro caused but heart/histamine rejection/allergy
caused. Recent interesting studies also bear out that PEPCID may be helpful
for heart failure generally on its own. Pepcid is not a perfect solution,
but may be helpful. Google these issues and you can learn on your own.
The stent polymers never wear off, per the manufacturer, and if they did,
the metal may also be a problem. No answer except to try to live as long
as possible with the stent, its pain, and all of the other stent related
discomfort and problems. If anyone has had success with gastro-antihistamine
like Tagamet, Zantac or Pepcid, please post so we can read about it. Some
informed cardiologists are now trying antihistamines (including Benadryl)
on stent reject patients. Some cardiologists are even suggesting the more
dangerous and less successful try of prednisone or celebrex, which are
not a good idea. Surprised these things are not being posted or explained
on this site. It should be on the front page of this entire web site.
Jeffrey G., Florida, USA, November 29, 2006
My friend has been
to the Mayo clinic for the past two days and no one seems ready to accept
the fact that this is an allergy to nickel. She has seen another allergist,
rhuemotologists (3 because they are curious) she had the nuclear medicine
for her heart and the all exciting stress test which she lasted exactly
four minutes and the Dr. came running into the room to get her off the
treadmill and laying down and taking nitro. She had to lay there for over
an hour while they determined if her symptoms were dangerous enough to
be concerned about. So far the doctors at Mayo are all "frustrated" and
have no idea what to do about her symptoms. All symptoms point to an allergic
reaction, but since there is no "data" no one is willing to admit or acknowledge
that these symptoms might be an allergic reaction to the stents. We are
no closer now to knowing what if anything can be done for her. We see the
cardiologist on 12/10 or sooner since they told her today they would be
evaluating all her testing and possibly scheduling more appointments for
her. The symptoms are the same as so many people on this forum, that I
feel sorry for them because I know what this is like to live with, but
from a second hand nature, I don't know what I would do if I was living
this nightmare every day.
Cheryl Hein, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, November 28, 2006
I had 5 stents put in in April and May 2005. Two
in April were J&J Cordis DES and 3 in May were Taxus Express 2 from Boston
Scientific. In addition had 5 previous stents from 2002 and 2003. Since
my stents in May 2005, I have had long spells of chest pains lasting 2-3
weeks at a time, nausea, and episodes of low blood pressure (as low as
80/40). Just one more thing. I do get this strong pulsating (Fluttering)
feeling in my thighs and it lasts about a second each time but leaves me
very concerned. Has anyone else had similar experience. My doctor has no
explanation. I am unable to work and trying to fight for disability. Any
help!!!
Vijay Varma, Palo Alto, California, USA, November 25, 2006
need to know if anyone
has had the problem i am having. i received a taxus express stent on november
1 2006. now 2 weeks later i have broke out in a hive-like rash on my chest,
shoulders, back and face. have been on plavix for years now, so that is
not the problem. have used Benadryl and it subsides for a while then i
get a new outbreak.
Dawn, Michigan, USA, November 15, 2006
hi my husband had a heart attack in may of 2006.
The day after he had a stent put in his heart. Then the cardiologist told
us he would need 3 more. So the next month, June, he went back in and had
another one put in, at that time we also found out that the 1st one had
clogged up. That was why he was having chest pains again. In July 2006,
he had 2 more stents placed. In August 2006, we were back to the hospital
with more chest pains. ER docs told us it was an infection in his lungs,
gave him antibiotics. Chest pain subsided for about 2 months. In October
2006, had to have another stent. Now he is having soreness and selling
in his chest. Could this be a side effect of the stents? Or his meds, he
is on plavix ,aspirin, lopressor, prilosec, glucophage, crestor, reglan?
We are at a loss here. Husband can't work due to his illness. All he wants
to do is sleep. I feel like I have lost my best friend and husband. I don't
know what to do anymore. PLEASE HELP!!!!!
S. P., Pennsylvania, USA, November 12, 2006
My husband age 69 just had three stents from bio
[Boston] scientific placed in his heart. first couple weeks fine but weak,
now itching, choking feeling, rapid change of blood pressure from high
normal to really low, weak heart beat, flushed, aches, chest pains. He
is a total mess and not dealing at all well with this.
Helen Senig, Lancaster, Ohio, USA, November 11, 2006
Update to June
24, 2006 posting for Bill Blanton's Cypher DES. We are still trying
to get test materials from a different avenue at this point. We may be
able to get them. Bill's heart doctor told him last week that in January
they will run some test that shows the stent by use of a camera. It should
show exactly where it is and if it is healed. Depending where the stent
is they may be able to take it out. If it is too deep in the heart they
can't. It would still be very risky and also bypass would have to be
done at the same time. Bill was wondering about this thinking that the
polymer wears off in time. Most doctors don't think it goes away. Does
anyone have any information on why or what makes some doctors think it
may wear off? This has been mentioned on the forum. At this time, after
13 months, Bill's burning & pins and needles sensations are getting worse.
Bill still has a sore throat and hoarse and has since the beginning.
The sores on rectum and private areas have healed. No one really knows
why. He still has sores in mouth. His energy level is good and he eats
much more. Stomach doesn't bother him much anymore. This whole thing
is strange. Looking forward to a reply and thanks to the forum for listening!
Terrie Blanton, Hamilton, Ohio, USA, November 4, 2006
I had a Taxus Express Stent 2 put in 7/3/06. The
day after,I complained of chest pain. Told by my cardiologist I shouldn't
have any pain. According to him, I was good as new. I've continued to have
chest pain I never had before the stent was placed. I've been to the Dr.
almost weekly with the same complaint, chest pain. I've asked my family
dr. & my cardiologist if I could be trying to reject the stent & was told
that hasn't ever happened. Now I do believe that is exactly what is happening.
Who can I contact or where can I go to get help for this very painful condition?
They make me feel like I am crazy for even having that idea. I am allergic
to surgical steel & nickel. I've just turned 44 (female) & don't look forward
to a life of pain & more meds. Too many now as it is. I am so frustrated
by all this. Any help?
Teresa Y., Ohio, USA, November 4, 2006
I came across your forum by looking for information
re: Nickel hypersensitivity after heart surgery. I was a healthy 53 year
old 3 mile a day runner before my prophylactic!!! mitral and tricuspid
valve repair 5 mo. ago. I was absolutely amazed to see posting after posting
the same symptoms I have been experiencing. Hives, itching, chest discomfort,
periods of stabbing or dull heart pain, peri clavicular and back pain,
pressure on my throat when bending, SOB, nauseating dizziness, exercise
intolerance, episodes of rapid pulse during rest, palpitations, no energy
My sed. rate during one of my Hospital admissions was 100%. I had to have
fluid drained from my right lung. My platelet count is twice as high as
before the surg. I knew from day one I had all the classic symptoms of
an allergic reaction. I was only on 325mg of Aspirin for a few weeks afterwards
because it was done robotically. I'm on no other Meds!!! After requesting
a copy of my surgery report I read to my horror that numerous Nitinol (Nickel/Titanium)clips
had been implanted around both valves. I knew I was allergic to Nickel
and had even told the nurse during my pre-op assessment. I have been running
into brick walls ever since. Nobody wants to point fingers. The surgeon
asked me" are you depressed?". No!!! But I'm getting there. One Allergist/Immunologist
refused treatment the other wanted to treat me for asthma. My primary care
MD calls it "post surgery syndrome" because she has no idea what to do
with me. I made a copy of a manufacturers warning not to use their nickel
containing device for patients with known allergies to nickel, to show
to my cardiologist. He was well aware of it, he says it comes with all
the devices he uses for stent placement. DOCTORS WHY DON"T YOU ROUTINELY
SCREEN YOUR PATIENTS !!?? I want to scream it from the roof tops. Not that
it would do any good, they can't hear us, their heads are sticking in the
sand.
Gabriele Schnegg, Lakeland, Florida, USA, November 4, 2006
The Mayo Clinic gave us great information today.
We were told that my friend's problems may be renal and the toxins in her
body are what are causing the "storms" she has. The joint pain and swelling
appear to be something that with medication and monitoring can hopefully
be treated and will make her life livable again. At least we were guaranteed
that the stents can not come out and they would not ever recommend removal
of them especially since her heart muscle is still very strong and healthy.
I am not sure where some doctors get their licenses or their information,
but is was very reassuring to listen to doctors who use actual data and
statistics to make their diagnosis. She will still have tests that need
to be done, but feels reassured that someone is finally looking at something
other than her heart wanting to do surgery that certainly should not be
done.
Cheryl Hein, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, November 3, 2006
Thank you for your
response to my post. My friend is going to the Mayo Clinic here in
Phoenix tomorrow. Hopefully they will be able to help her with her health
issues. She had the three stents 2 years ago and since then the complications
and illnesses relating to this allergy have done nothing but increase
steadily. The stents were all placed in the RCA and her cardiologist
was fully aware of her allergy to metals, in particular nickel. She is
experiencing excruciating headaches, extremely high blood pressure peaks,
and continued muscle and joint pain. She has been on plavix since the
beginning and doctors insist she stay on it. Have stents ever been removed
successfully. Her cardiologist told her not to worry, it was only a little
nickel. Regardless of the amount her allergist has stated that she is
so allergic to metals that if she wore jewelry over time it would eat
the tissue around the jewelry. The allergy test for nickel burned a hole
in her skin within 24 hours. Her cardiologist was very aware of the allergy
and in fact did not disclose the materials that stents are made of to
her. She found out herself when she was home from the hospital and read
the brochure from the manufacturer. I am hoping that the Mayo Clinic
has some answers for her. The pain and suffering she endures is becoming
more frequent and severe.
Cheryl Hein, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, November 2, 2006
I had a Taxus stent placed about a month and a
half ago, and ever since I left the hospital, I have had a low grade rash
under my eyes. It can get more or less red at different times, but remains
constant. I am curious if it could be the stent or the plavix that they
put me on at the same time that may be causing the reaction? Any advice?
Benadryl does not seem to help.
Melodie S., Florida, USA, November 1, 2006
My father has been battling Lyposarcoma for 12
years with relative success. He is 71, 6 ft tall and 130 pounds. After
having a medicated stent put in in March of 06 he became very ill. The
tumor which was 7 cm in March, grew to over 15 pounds 32 centimeters .He
could not eat. They could not operate until July because of the Plavix
and stent. He has suffered many complications and still is very ill. He
cannot eat, has esophageal ulcers and confusion. While I am sure some of
the complications are from the cancer, we believe that the stent was the
final factor which made him so ill. What help is there for patients who
need a stent removed? what are the risks?
Lynnmarie, CES, Mentor, Ohio, USA, October 31, 2006
J.B. -- an obvious question, but was there anything
else that occurred 5-6 months ago? New drug prescription, etc. that you
hadn't taken in the previous 2 years? While it would seem that an allergic
stent reaction, or a reaction to a drug you've been taking would not take
two-plus years to manifest, there is some thought that, as the polymers
on the stents are slowly broken down by the body, the hypersensitivity
reactions only then begin to show up. It can take a year or two before
that process even begins. Let us know.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 29, 2006
Need information. Cordis stents. Sweating, cold,
after taking toprol, or Nexium. Have 2 stents 1/29/04 installed. Found
that after taking benadryl feeling of sweats and cold started to diminish
and then were gone. Is there anyone else out there that has had a problem
like this? This problems just started in the last 5 months. HELP.
J.B., Illinois, USA, October 29, 2006
I had a cypher stent put in on 9/15/06. I have
had 3 prior bare wire stents 2003 2004. My dr is normally reliable, but
this time he put in the coated stent, with "Sirolimus" and polymer coating.
Problems from day 1. I AM ALLERGIC TO MYCIN DRUGS. He was well aware of
this and admits he made a wrong choice, and is now under pressure to find
a fix for problem. I am short of breath, suffering muscle spasms, have
BP running 140/75 to 202/98 without activity. Also have a pacemaker from
2003. The Mycin problem is killing me slowly, and Johnson and Johnson has
no history of problems with improperly used stents. Anyone that can help??
Please.
Ken F., Florida, USA, October 27, 2006
I have been reading these postings with great
interest. I am 50, had an acute MI in 12/2004. Fixed with a stent. Now
I have 3 Taxus DES, 2 Cordis, and 2 Guidant DES's. On a different note,
I have a great cardiologist, my stents have given me none of the problems
listed and I feel very lucky. However, I was wondering if you have any
info on the growth of scar tissue posing problems with restenosis? Thank
you and I am glad I found your web site. Lynn Jackson jlynn@sc.edu
Lynn Jackson, Columbia SC, October 23, 2006
Thank You Forum Editor for your speedy response.
I have been on Plavix now for 26 months for the first 3 DES stents and
17 months for the last stent. I want off Plavix soo badly. I feel a lot
of my "not me feelings and itching" may be coming from the Plavix. I hope
someone somewhere can tell us just how long we need to be on this drug
and when it is safe to get off. I did have a blood clot 9 months after
the first 3 stents which resulted in the 4th DES stent. But, I never got
off the Plavix to warrant this blood clot. They were going to send me home
from ER but decided to take one more set of heart enzymes. The last set,
Troponin was elevated 5.0 (peak) and so was the CK-MB. The heparin was
then started. They wanted me on 2 months of Coumadin but since I was on
Plavix they changed their mind in fear of hemhorraging. Thanks so much
for this forum. It is a God Send.
Lise, Texas, USA, October 23, 2006
I HAVE HAD THREE STENTS IMPLANTED IN MY LEGS THE
FIRST ONE IS STILL STINGING AND BURNING AND MY LEG GIVES OUT I KNOW THIS
IS A REACTION TO THE STENTS BECAUSE I DIDN'T HAVE THIS PROBLEM BEFORE.
MY TOES SWOLL UP AND BRUSTED OPEN AND THEY ITCH ALL THE TIME.
D.T., Washington DC, USA, October 22, 2006
Glad to see that the FDA now recognizes the fact
that some people are either allergic or hypersensitive to the metal in
stents. So, what are possible complications of having 2 in the cardiac
arteries? I've read somewhere that the components of stainless steel can
cause liver damage? And what do I do now that I've learned the cardiologists
ignored the warning on the manufacturer's package? Is there anything I
can do short of having a bypass? I don't want to have more surgery, but
I don't want to die either - I've already lost too much of my life thanks
to the cardiologists and vascular surgeon.
Carole, Atlanta area, October 17, 2006
Lise from Texas -- the itching you describe in
your earlier post may be a reaction to Plavix. This can't be determined
without taking you off Plavix long enough to see if it stops and then,
if it does, putting you back on to see if the itching returns. To do so,
however, is not recommended because you need to stay on antiplatelet
therapy. An exception would be switching to a different antiplatelet
drug, such as ticlopidine -- although it has its own set of allergic or
adverse reactions. Talk to your interventional cardiologist about this.
As for "covering" your drug-eluting stents with bare metal stents,
there'd be no reason. You'd only be adding more metal and more chance for
a reocclusion or blood clot. This whole issue has been very confusing to
patients (see our "Patient
Advisory") and more information about drug-eluting stents is going
to be coming out in the next couple of weeks. It's important to put headlines
in perspective -- the new drug-coated stents are not filled with "toxic
materials" and they have been shown to reduce the amount of restenosis
seen -- this means less repeat procedures. They have also been shown to
cause a slight but nonetheless significant increase from bare metal stents
for stent thrombosis (blood clotting) which means that this can be prevented
by keeping patients on antiplatelet therapy longer than the FDA has recommended
-- currently 3-6 months. This is something cardiologists have been doing
for a while, and certainly more now are aware of this -- most cardiologists
now prescribe Plavix and aspirin for a year or more for drug-eluting stent
patients.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 16, 2006
To: Forum Editor. I recently posted
below. Do you know if there is any way that Bare metal Stents can
be used in conjunction with the DES stents? I am wondering if they can
place 4 BMS inside of or on top of the 4 Cypher DES. I know I am not
alone in my thinking ever since the news came out on the DES and toxicity
and DES and long term use of Plavix. My doctor is not talking. Sad indeed.
Thanks soooo much for this forum.
Lise, Texas, USA, October 15, 2006
Nora -- the Driver is not a drug-eluting stent,
but a bare metal stent made by Medtronic. It is not made of stainless steel,
but a Cobalt alloy which allows it to be very strong, but with very thin
struts, making it less susceptible to re-closing. Medtronic states in their
Directions For Use (DFU) "Persons allergic to cobalt, chromium or
nickel may suffer an allergic reaction to this implant." Does your
husband have any of these allergies?
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 14, 2006
My
husband had a Driver stent put in in May. In June he started pains in his
groin and legs. He came off the lipitor and plavix, no improvement. He
is hardly able to walk he is in so much pain. All tests come back negative.
Last week a neurologist said it was arthritis in both hips. How come this
started right after the stent was installed and getting worse by the day.
Does anyone have any answers.
Nora, Canada, October 10, 2006
I have had 4 Cypher stents
placed 5-6 months apart. I am on Plavix and a Beta Blocker and a statin
and baby aspirin. Every since these stents, I have had left breast discomfort.
I asked the Stent doctor if he had to use the defib on me during the procedure
as this is how bad I hurt. His answer is NO. I am also itching...itching
where I have scratch marks all over my body. I KNOW it is either the Toxic
material they claim is in these DES stents or the Plavix. I also have low
serum Globulin and a high Globulin/Albumin ratio and low Ferrtin. This
was never seen before these stents and Plavix. Doctors have no clue. I
want these DES stents gone now. Give me the bare metal. )-:
Lise, Texas, USA, October 10, 2006
Dan A. -- thanks for the followup. It's really
important for patients to read stories like yours. Yes, there are problems
and complications. Even allergies. But perspective, especially over time,
is very helpful. A cardiologist recently told me the importance of figuring
out about these allergic reactions is not that anything in particular can
be done once the stent is in, but to give patients the understanding of
what the cause is, and that it is not permanent -- he believes the allergic
reactions will subside as the body breaks down the polymers on the stent.
In any case, whether or not you had an allergic reaction, getting back
on the horse, or in your case, the bike, is so important. And we're very
glad to see that you and your cardiologist were able to discuss your problems
and help resolve them together, as partners, with understanding as well
as medical care. Thanks again for the post and happy biking!
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 10, 2006
Follow-up to my first
post of 12-30-05 -- I originally reported possible allergic reactions
to drug eluting stents as described in my post below. As time passed,
those symptoms largely subsided, but two symptoms appeared which persisted
for a time and required medical attention:
1) occasional unexplained, sharp localized pains in
the area of my heart. I swear I could feel the heart muscle and the pain
was right there. These were transient and have largely disappeared over
the 10 months since my procedure.
2) PVCs (premature ventricular contractions) also commonly
known as "skipped beats." These have also largely subsided.
I sought and received consultation and monitoring for
the PVCs. My cardiologist explained that the symptoms I'd been experiencing
were not uncommon and were understandable as the body is acclimating to
the insertion of a foreign body in the critical heart area. These symptoms
are also known to be related to stress, so one must be careful about blaming
one cause or another. The 48-hour monitor test showed a peak of something
like 250 PVCs per hour, but none were sequential or repetitive. The doctor
said this was not sufficient to intervene, but that if symptoms persisted
I was to notify him.
As the months have passed since my procedure, I have
been extremely faithful to my exercise routine, walking 1/2 hour or bicycling
around a local path that includes some long grades. I have found biking
to be a superior workout, and as a bonus it has much lower impact than
walking. I really enjoy it. I recently had an incident that still goes
largely unexplained. In early August I began experiencing pain similar
to that which preceded my Dec 2005 stent placement. The pain was accompanied
by cold sweats, heat flushing and light-headedness. After a couple days
of this I spoke with my doctor and he suggested I go to hospital for tests.
Upon checking in I was observed to have a fever of 100.7 F. I was given
a nuclear scan stress-test (my 5th in 6 years) and the results were very
good. My exercise had paid-off: it was the best observed response since
testing began at the beginning of my heart problems in 2000.
My symptoms were suggested by doctors at the hospital
to have been a virus. The pains were likely muscular rather than angina.
A month later I met someone in my age group (55+) who had an almost identical
experience to mine at exactly the same time in the same hospital. I do
not know if he is a stent patient. They told him the same thing: a possible
virus. I take aspirin and Plavix daily and haven't had any unusual reactions
to it that we know of. I had taken it in 2001 for 6 months after my first
angioplasty (bare metal stents) with no problems. I also took it for several
months in 2003, which produced gastrointestinal symptoms like heartburn,
so I have been on Pepcid AC twice a day since then. My second procedure
in December 2005 allowed my surgeon to examine the bare metal stents and
all five were clear, about which he was very happy. The recent news about
late stent thrombosis is of concern, but as my recent tests have shown
marked improvement in exercise tolerance, I am happy to report no significant
problems of late.
Dan A., California, USA, October 7, 2006
I had a drug eluting stent placed on July 18th
in one of the arteries with 99% blockage. I am not sure of the manufacturer
of the stent. I do get intermittent mild chest pains on the side. I also
feel sensations like burning spots and popping nerves all over my body.
I am on Plavix, baby aspirin, Toprol 25mg and Vytorin 10/20. Now I know
that this is not in my head. This site is of great help. I can [give] specific
questions to my cardiologist when I visit next time.
P. N., Texas , USA, October 3, 2006
Hi. I
wrote earlier about negative reactions to the stents. My husband
has since gone to a naprapath who
found he was overly sensitive to nickel, Zocor, and other things that
were causing his allergic reactions. He is being treated and the night
sweats have gone away and it seems to be working. Others with allergies
might want to look into it if nothing else is working.
Heather, Vail, Colorado, USA, October 2, 2006
Cheryl -- Where were the
stents placed? Were they drug-eluting stents (probably not, unless they
were coronary)? Most stents are made of surgical stainless steel which
contain nickel. All of the DFUs (Directions for Use) for these devices
contain warnings, required by the FDA, to the effect that they should not
be used in patients with a known allergy to nickel or certain metals. The
problem comes when such an allergy is not known about beforehand or, if
it is known, it has not been communicated to the cardiologist. We have
heard that steroids have been used to quell temporarily some symptoms.
We would also suggest consulting another immunologist -- did yours actually
say your friend would die a slow painful death? It may be that when the
stents become covered with endothelial cells, these allergic reactions
may subside. The period varies, but should be in the first six months.
By all means report this to the FDA. They need to know about these adverse
events. Maybe it will force them to publicize the metal allergy aspects
more. Meanwhile, we'll do what we can to inform patients.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 1, 2006
I have a friend who is highly allergic to nickel
and has had three stents inserted. Cardiovascular surgeons have told her
surgery to remove stents is always fatal. Her bad days are outnumbering
the good due to joint swelling/pain, "metal storms" that cause blood pressure
to spike 180/110 on medication that rest of time maintains blood pressure.
Her allergist assures her that her death will be long and very painful
without the stents being removed. Is there any surgical procedure that
can be done to remove the stents or any further treatment for her pain.
Her quality of life is beginning to deteriorate and in this day and age
I can't believe something further can't be done for her.
Cheryl Hein, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, September 30, 2006
My wife had four stents in July 2006. She also
took plavix. She has had severe burning leg pain and some arm burning and
back pain since August. She went off plavix to ticlid and her pain subsided
some. Doc put her back on plavix for safety reasons and now is miserable
with pain. She is also on neurontin for pain. When will medicine be honest
and up front before people buy into unproven medicine. We asked before
if there were any complaints about plavix and we were told nothing major.
We also were told you don't need CBC tests done on plavix only ticlid.
Both can give you TTP. A neighbor got TTP from ticlid a few years ago.
almost died. Doc told him his case was one of ten world wide. Believe that
and I'll sell you the Brooklyn Bridge.
Rick F., New York, USA, September 30, 2006
Email sent to the FDA: I am writing you about
a coated stent that I had placed in my heart in March of '06. Since the
placement of it I have had all kinds of medical problems starting with
vomiting 2 weeks afterwards, then elevated histamine levels, taken off
plavix put on ticlid given prescription allergy meds off aspirin back to
plavix off allergy meds then my bladder started spasing, kidney on the
left hurting. Took blood test found blood and infection on antibiotics
2 weeks later flu like symptoms muscle aches, fever, nausea, loss of appetite,
headache. 3 weeks approximately later another UTI was sent by family doc
to an Urologist who ran test found slightly elevated bacteria trace blood.
Gave me antibiotics July 13th I doubled over in pain and had a lot of blood
in my urine. Called the family doc saw them went back to urology doc who
did more tests and incidentally found a mass on the pancreas. Placed me
on a low dose of antibodies (which I am still on) Sent me to a gastroenterologist
who did a magnetic scan in which they found a 9mm cyst on the pancreas
and several smaller masses that are two small to characterize on the left
lobe of the liver as well as the left kidney. She was concerned of Pancreatic
cancer but are unable to examine this due to the plavix that is required
because of the stent and chance of blood clots. They are monitoring the
growth of this. I will be seeing them on Oct 18 again. I have vomiting
every 5 to 7 days for a day. constant pain in my left area including the
kidney the bladder and what I will describe as something Jagging me that
is sharp around my Pancreas area. There is something wrong. The flu like
symptoms appear every few days for about 12 hours. The last week I have
felt as if the heart is closing and there is pain developing around the
Left breast near the lymph node under the arm, The top middle of my back
to the left shoulder blade hurts. I have told all who will listen that
I think my body is rejecting this stent. From the cardiologist to the gastroenterologist
All of them, I will see him this Thursday October 5th at 9am. I have had
my family doctor get in touch with another cardiologist and I will be making
an appointment to see him in DC. I know that this is an allergy and it
needs to come out even if this means open heart to by pass. Please remove
these until further test is done I don't want others to go through what
I am going through. I am 48 years young with a active lifestyle and a 10
year old son and this is kicking my ass I can't imagine if those who are
not as healthy as I am having this done. Thanks for your time. If any questions
Please feel free to contact me.
Cynthia Maley, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA, September 30, 2006
My husband had 3 stents
placed in the circumflex artery in April. He has night sweats quite severely.
He also can't focus, is fatigued, has headaches and muscle cramps (including
back aches). We don't know which stent but know it is a drug stent. He
is on Plavix and Zocor. Is only 52 and was quite active but is now quite
frustrated. He doesn't have the itchy rashes that we hear others have but
something is definitely wrong. All the blood tests were inconclusive. Thanks
for any ideas.
Heather, Vail Colorado, September 24, 2006
I just saw this topic on allergic reactions. I
have 4 DES, 3 Cyphers and One Taxus. Last stent was in late 2005. I take
Plavix. Recently, I have been itching all over the body. No rash but redness
where I have dug at the skin. I have never been allergic to anything. I
am wondering if I could have a late reaction to either the coating in the
stent or the Plavix? I have also had a wheeze constantly for over a year
like I have ASTHMA. I never had this before the stents or the Plavix. My
doctor is of no help. he cannot be bothered with female complaints )-:
Just wanted to share this information.
CeCe, Texas, USA, September 16, 2006
My name is Annie, I feel the same way that Bill
Dudley feels. I had a stent put in the LAD in July and I
haven't felt better at all. I keep getting pains in my chest and short
of breath plus the shakes and I'm always nerves. I feel that it is
the plavix. Also what symptoms are there if I'm allergic to the stent.
I just feel bad all the time. But my doctor tells me to continue to
take the Plavix. He is going to do a echocardiogram in a couple of
weeks to see if the pains are coming from any thing having to do with
my heart. I still say it is either the Plavix or the stent. This is
really got me down.
Annie, Parkton, Maryland, USA, September 11, 2006
It is 3:35 AM EST. once again I am awake-itching,
itching, lips and tongue burning, throat feels clogged. I am on Ticlid-which
I suspect is the problem ( I am allergic to Plavix.) It seems when I stop
it for a day, the symptoms subside-I am very uneasy to even do this, but
I get so miserable. In fact, the whole experience with the placement of
the Taxus II drug eluting stent has been miserable. I have chest pain,
SOB, that odd heart beat that sent me to the cardiologist in the first
place again and my stress test is abnormal still. Apparently my stent is
mid LAD and in an area that is very small, intersecting another artery
so a second stent is not a good option. I wish the stent had never been
placed and I suspect I am echoing the sentiments of many patients. The
thing that is troublesome to me is that the possibility of a stent was
never discussed with me (although there was a full year from the time of
an abnormal echocardiogram to the cardiac cath to do so: I received a call
from the hospital on the initial scheduled date of my procedure informing
me that the equipment had malfunctioned so my procedure was delayed and
it it took me some time to get up the nerve to do the procedure, given
that I had some odd symptoms that presented after a heart cath in 2001-joint
pain, muscle pain, muscle twitching problems swallowing, various DX-Polymyalgia
Rheumatica, Guillian Barre, Lupus-left me unable to work for two years:
I literally begged my current cardiologist not to do anything that would
set off my immune system again) nor did I agree to a stent: I agreed to
an angioplasty. now I am in a position that I cannot return from- I am
very concerned that I will go back to that terrible pain and loss of functioning
again. I am in my early fifties, I was enjoying being with my grandchildren,
I has returned to school to get my master's, was working and life was returning
to normal-here we go again. How can a procedure, with no return, like this
be done without serious communication and informed consent along with use
of more conservative measures first? Does anyone else feel violated? I
guess I wouldn't be so put off, if I had not told my doctor about my odd
immune responses in advance. I have a real problem with medication sensitivity-I
have since I was young. I am not the only one in my family with atypical
immune responses of which my doctor was aware. Can any of this be changed
other than a high risk removal of the stent and wouldn't this still require
the use of either Plavix or Ticlid? It makes me sad to see myself and so
many others trading our quality of life to exist like this.
Robin S., Ohio, USA, September 11, 2006
YES I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY MY HUSBAND HAS HAD
5 STENTS PLACED AND HAS BEEN SICK FROM THE VERY FIRST STENT. HE NO LONGER
HAS CONTROL OVER HIS BLADDER. HE HAS TO CATH HIMSELF TO GO. HE HAS BOWEL
PROBLEMS, HE HAS HAD A SORE THROAT SINCE THE FIRST STENT 4 YEARS AGO HE
HAS BEEN ON ALOT OF ANTIBIOTIC MEDS FOR THIS WITH NO RELEIF HE HAS BURNING
IN HIS LEGS AND TINGLING IN HIS HANDS. HIS BLOOD PRESSURE IS UNCONTROLABLE.
HE SLEEPS VERY LITTLE AT NIGHT. HE IS VERY NERVOUS HE IS ONLY ON A FEW
MEDS NOW AS THEY HAVE TRIED ALOT OF DIFFERENT THINGS HE NOW TAKES TOPROL
LOW DOSE A ASA AND XANAX .5MG BID. PRILOSEC A VITAMIN. POTTASIUM AND MAGNESIUM.
HE HAS TRIED ALOT OF THINGS THE DR HAS HAD MRI OF BRAIN DONE X3 FOR MS
AND TO SEE WHAT IS GOING ON BUT NO ONE WILL ADMIT THAT HE MAY BE ALLERGIC
TO THE STENTS THE CARDIOLOGIST SAYS HE CANT BE ALLERGIC TO THEM HE DID
COALATION THERAPY FOR SOMETIME AND ALSO HAD THE PEROXIDE TX DONE. NOTHING
SEEMS TO HELP HE FALLS ASLEEP WATCHING TV HE HAS NO ENERGY HE HAS PROBLEMS
CONCENTRATING ON THINGS. CAN ANYONE OUT THERE HELP US HOW CAN WE FIND OUT
FOR SURE IF HE IS ALLERGIC TO THE STENTS PLACED HE HAS 1 MEDICATED STENT
AND 4 OF THE OTHER ONES.
Rick, Nebraska, USA, September 6, 2006
about the right renal stent that was put in 2005.
my allergic reaction happened right away...from the moment it was over
i had this awful burning and stinging in my back. i did tell the doctor,
and no remarks were made..he also saw the sores on my legs which he thought
was the altace. i have since been tested for nickel, negitive..however
thirty five yrs ago i had gall bladder surgery and was stitched up with
stainless steel wire sutures.. they were removed seventeen yrs ago, it
took me that long to find a doctor who listen to me..the pain , the burning
it was the same, as today. that is why i believe its the stent..but I'm
having trouble again, because this is all so new and not much information.
Sue W., Texas, USA, September 4, 2006
Hi All My name is Bill -
male-60 yrs. old-was very healthy I thought But-June 1 -06 had drug coated
stent installed after going to ER with chest pains - Think it was the left
LAD First couple weeks felt pretty darn good - little weak. Now for last
30 days or so my chest area is very sore at times or when I move in bed
just right. I stay nauseous and weak most all the time. Blood pressure
floats from 117/60 to 135/69 throughout the day. Food now makes me sickly
feeling, as a matter of fact my tastes have totally changed. Meds are Toprol-25mg-Altace-5mg.-Plavix-Aspirin-lipitor-40mg
- Doctor took me off Plavix and Lipitor for three days to see if made any
difference , but really didn't. If I work outside any or exercise any the
chest area around heart hurts-not big pain-just very sore and begin to
get very jittery-shakey feeling. About 2-3 weeks ago had ECG and 8.5 min.
Stress test and both were good. My doctor says he does not know what is
wrong but to get checked out by family doctor to see if something else
is wrong, that might be unrelated to stent procedure. If anyone else is
having such problems as these or have found some answers be glad to talk
to ya , as I need some help - as my world is turned upside down now as
is so many here. LOVE this site - my email is bdd@ntin.net By the way I
have no insurance and this is costly. WOW.
bill dudley, retired, montague, texas, USA, August 30, 2006
So, it's been 10 months since I had 2 Cypher stents
and an ICD put in. I have finally convinced my PCP to give me a referral
to get allergy testing done for the materials that compose my stents and
ICD. When we finally got around to talking about it specifically, she said
she was hesitant to request the testing because she said "it would be a
dead end". My final argument was that at least there would be a written
record of my allergies. What she was implying though, is she doesn't want
to do anything with the information. No one wants to assume the responsibility
of taking all this stuff out though I am the person who would be taking
the risks. To me the risk is worth it because the quality of my life would
drastically improve. At this point with the misfiring of my ICD in April
(10 times in 20 minutes and i was in sinus rhythm when it went off)I am
afraid to do anything, including nothing.
M.J., Washington, USA, August 28, 2006
To Mickie,
Tennessee, USA "Allergy doctor, arthritis doctor, heart doctor say
it is the stent but don't know what to do about it. help ANYONE." Mickey,
why is it that so many millions of patients are not having such a problem
with the stents? Could there be something wrong with your vascular system
which is reacting to the stent? This could be caused by inflammation,
constriction and what is now being referred to as a pre-existing state
of endothelial dysfunction. Correct that and your body maybe able better
tolerate the stent. Seek out diets which fight inflammation. Also check
out a non-invasive, FDA approved, CMS reimbursed, outpatient treatment
option called Enhanced External Counterpulsation or EECP. It not only
may help grow new collateral blood circulation to the heart, it may also
restore normal endothelial function which decreases the possibility of
restenosis. These are unique patient benefits not realized from invasive
procedures. Visit www.eecp.com and read as much as you can. Then, seek
out the experiences of other patients using or trying to use EECP which
is a topic on this forum. Now, physicians often will not mention EECP
as a treatment option because, IMO,they are not fairly reimbursed for
the time and service they render to deliver EECP. But if the patients
ask for it and demonstrate that they have a knowledge of the advantages
of the treatment, the physician will almost always oblige them if it
is at all possible. Good luck.
Gerald O., Illinois, USA, August 25, 2006
Sue -- pretty sure that the Express stent in your
renal was not a drug-eluting type, so if it were causing the problem, it
would be due to a nickel or other metal allergy and most likely would have
shown up relatively soon after (you didn't say when your symptoms began).
A possibility is a reaction to one or more medications -- we've read of
purple spots, etc. with Plavix. Look up each drug you're taking (including
any over-the-counter non-prescription meds) and see if you find an adverse
reaction that fits -- although don't change or stop any meds without consulting
your doctor! Let us what you find.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 23, 2006
In 2005 I had a right renal express stent put
in because of blockage and high blood pressure. I am on 50mg of toprol,
10 mg altace 2x day, Hydralazine, zyrtec, lipitor have these awful red
sores, and itch. Upon healing I'm left with big purple spots. My biggest
problem is the heat spots or burning in my back. To date getting worse,
cant sleep, work. as I always feel I'm on fire...pain little below waist
feels like burning and nerve ends. Nobody even my doctor understands this
or why it's happening...ANYBODY ELSE HAVE THIS?
Sue W., Texas, USA, August 22, 2006
Thanks to all who've been writing in. A couple
quick notes. To those taking over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicines such
as Benadryl, we urge caution. Benadryl is a vasoconstrictor -- it narrows
the blood vessels -- which for those with high blood pressure can aggrevate
the condition. Also, if you've had a procedure to open up a blockage, narrowing
the vessel is the opposite of what you want. We're not saying don't take
it, but we urge you to discuss this (and ALL OTC medicines) with your cardiologist
or other doctor.
On a second point, this is a particularly complex issue
and, for those patients who are having what they feel may be allergic reactions
post-stenting, a very frustrating one. Not much is known about this issue
and very little has been written in the medical literature, but Angioplasty.Org
is one of the few (if not the only) places on the internet where patients
have been discussing these potential allergic (hypersensitive) reactions
to drug-eluting stents since they were introduced a few years ago. To that
end, we will soon be announcing some interesting news and urge our readers
to continue posting and check back to this topic over the next week or
two. Thanks.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 21, 2006
My name is Mickie. I had
the coated stent 5-23-06. I have had all the bad things happen to me too,
and I get no answers from my doctor -- rash, hives, temp, RA factor went
up to 240, was put on steroids, sugar went over 500 at times -- take up
to 5 shots a day now going crazy trying to find answers. Allergy doctor,
arthristis doctor, heart doctor say it is the stent but don't know what
to do about it. help ANYONE.
Mickie, Tennessee, USA, August 18, 2006
I am 37 yr old, male. My mother had a CABG done
at the age of 55.. I do not smoke, but had high cholesterol which was under
control on Crestor I was off Crestor for last 2 month because of high cpk(500).
I experience chest pain on 25th may while attending a conference. Fly back
to home other day and went to ER. Two sets of cpk and troponin were negative,
not sure about the third one. Next morning 9hr after being in the ER cath
was done , showed 90 % lesion in LAD, and a 2.5mm Cypher stent was placed.
During stent placement I woke up with the pain, probably when they were
deploying stent. After stent since I was complaining of substernal chest
pain, two cath were done one on the same day of initial cath and one after
two days. Both times, stent was found to be patent. I was discharge on
following medication:
1. Plavix
2. Baby aspirin
3. Lipitor
4. thyroxine.
While at home, I continue to experience chest pain, which
is constant in nature. Common locations were left sternal border, close
to 2nd and 3rd rib, axillary region radiating into left arm, tip and medial
border of left scapula, with tingling sensation on the anterior surface
of arm and radial and ulnar borders of forearm. Also have itching in left
axillay region. While walking on treadmill, it do get more pronounced.
I had a stress cardiolyte test done after two weeks, which did not showed
any ischemia, I was able to do it for 10 minutes, peak heart rate of 190,
but test was stopped secondary to fatigue and shortness of breath. No significant
increase in chest pain and there were no ekg changes during the test. CBC
was normal, no eosinophills. ESR and C-reactive proteins were normal. Normal
ANA and factor V.
A CT angiogram was done after 4 weeks which was also
read as negative. Although the intensity of rest pain has decreased, but
chest wall pain, or pain at back around base of scapula get pronounced
on treadmill.
I have my second nuclear stress test done after 8 weeks,
was also normal. I went to see a top cardiologist at Mayo, who after reviewing
my records ruled out ischemia as a cause of my pain. Did not give any satisfactory
explanation of chest pain. When I raises the possibility of allergic reaction,
he said its extremely rare and there is no way of knowing if I am having
allergic reaction. He also recommend L-arginine. After coming back from
Mayo clinic I started my self on Benadryl I notice decrease in severity
of pain. I still have soreness, but the punch of pain has gone. I am not
sure why I am having this pain, what should I do about it. Could it be
stretch pain? Am I having allergic reaction? If I am having allergic reaction,
what can I do? Can stent come out?
R.A., Louisiana, USA, August 17, 2006
I am Male 53, who thought was in good health until
I experienced MI in May 2006, although I did smoke, until the day I had
heart attack. I was treated with drug eluting stent to one artery 90% blocked,
I am unsure of which stent was used, although I do know I am included in
a special trial of a new stent. I have been back to my cardiologist 3 times
complaining of fatigue, some chest pain, lack of energy, etc. I feel much
worse than I did prior to the MI and subsequent treatment. Subsequent tests
indicate echocardiogram is normal, nuclear X-rays of blood flow in heart
is normal, and EKG appears almost normal, with one small spike in the signal.
My cardiologist says I had a very mild heart attack, with miniscule damage
to the heart muscle. I did walk into the emergency room on my own.
Drug therapy includes, 75 mg plavix, 81mg aspirin, 50
mg Toprol XL, 40 mg Lipitor, and 10mg Lisinopril. Doctor changed Toprol
to Coreg 6 mg twice a day on my last visit, but it made me feel worse and
I went back to the Toprol. Chest pain has since subsided, but I have otherwise
continued to feel much worse. In the past few weeks I began experiencing
itching, starting with inside of nose and mouth, some sores in the mouth
with the itching being the roof of my mouth. The itching has since spread
to back, arms, hands, feet, face, especially forehead, and genital area.
My hands are ultra sensitive to the touch of leather, paper, and other
smooth surfaces. I had a similar reaction several years ago to niacin,
prescribed for high cholesterol.
I went out of town last weekend and accidentally went
without my medication, so I missed Friday night, Saturday morning, night,
and Sunday morning regimen. I had up until this time thought I was depressed,
causing the fatigue, lack of energy symptoms.
However, after having missed medication doses, I felt
much better by late Sunday afternoon. I resumed medication on Sunday night
when I got home, Monday morning and by late Monday all of the symptoms
were back, with itching seeming to be much worse.
I made an appointment to see my cardiologist this Thursday
afternoon (tomorrow)as soon as I could get the appointment. My question
is: how much risk would I be taking to stop my medication for the next
two days, or could I skip one or more of the medications short term without
risking restenosis? I think my reaction is due to the plavix, but of course
I am not certain of that. I do know that one of the drugs is causing the
itching, even if the other symptoms are due to another problem. Thank You.
Steve Shirk, Atlanta, Georgia, USA, August 16, 2006
Hi, My wife has a carotid artery break but is
highly allergic to nickel...does anyone have an option for her or know
of stents without nickel in their composition? chrisnchris@msn.com
Chris Bradley , Encino, California, USA, August 2, 2006
Update to June
24, 2006 posting re: Bill's possible hypersensitivity to Cypher Drug
Eluting Stent. Bill's allergy Doctor called and canceled his appointment
to be tested for allergic reaction to the stent because Cordis and the
manufacturers of the materials for the stent refused to send the materials.
This doctor said he exhausted every avenue available to get these materials.
No one would help! He said he cannot get them. I think he contacted Boston
Scientific also. He could only get the Sirolimus from a drug company
but it would be around $1,000 and the insurance would not cover it. In
my opinion this is not a show of good faith; it's more a show of not
caring. Has anyone else had any luck with this? Bill went back to his
regular doctor last week because of more skin problems and he told Bill
he thought he was hypersensitive to the stent and told him, "if
the medicine I give you doesn't work we can't heal you." The doctor
told him he is in a minority and we cannot please everyone. Bill told
him that doesn't matter -- someone needs to help us that are [in a minority]
-- he didn't answer him. Has anyone else had sores in the mouth, on privates
and rectum? If so, were you treated successfully? Bill and I thank the
Forum for all that it is trying to do for all of us.
Terrie Blanton, Hamilton, Ohio, USA, July 20, 2006
My husband had a Taxus Express 2 Paclitaxel-eluting
coronary stent placed 4 weeks ago. He was placed on Plavix, Aspirin, Metaprolol,
Lipitor, and Protonix. After 3 weeks, he broke out in hives necessitated
his first trip to the E/R. He received a shot of Benadryl and a burst of
Prednisone. He continued with a severe rash and was back in the E/R less
then 24 hours with the reaction threatening his airway. We contacted his
cardiologist the next morning to report the event. He took him off all
meds except Plavix and Aspirin and added a regular regimen of Benadryl
and Prednisone. As if things weren't bad enough, now he had severe joint
pain and swelling and the rash coming and going in waves,strangely worse
at night. Trip 3 to the E/R with the addition of Oxycodone for pain. Over
the next 3 days the joint pain and swelling became so severe he could not
even lift himself up to stand. Finally he had an appointment and Plavix
was removed and Ticlid took it's place. He also added the rest of his meds
except Lipitor. It's been 4 days now and he's just starting to feel a little
better. We're hoping it was the Plavix causing the allergic reaction. We're
praying it's not the stent and the Paclitaxel it contains. I hope this
helps someone out there as in this period of time 4 doctors told us they've
never seen a reaction to Plavix this severe.
John N., Stevens Point, Wisconsin, USA, July 18, 2006
Shirley in Kansas -- there are many possible reasons
for negative reactions after any medical procedure. If you read through
the many postings on this and other Forum topics, you'll see many similar
reactions. Possibilities are: reaction to one of the several drugs prescribed
for heart patients -- statins can cause muscle pain, Plavix can cause rashes,
blood pressure medications can cause a range of etc. Secondly, more research
is being done into possible allergic (hypersensitive) reactions to drug-eluting
stents -- this can be from the drug being eluted, sirolimus in your sister's
case, or from the polymer material that coats the metal stent, or from
the metal in the stent itself. There is also the possibility of a psychological
reaction, usually depression and fear, that can come with any serious procedure.
All of these are real and should be treated. From our many postings, it
would seem that not enough emphasis is put on possible allergic reactions,
and too much on psychological explanations (e.g., "it's all in your
head") -- however, the mind is a very powerful medicine and can trigger
very physical reactions or vice-versa (for example, Dr. Dean Ornish successfully
treats his heart patients with relaxation and meditation, as well as diet).
There's no question that a person who had been unaware of any health problem,
and who suddenly finds that they have a chronic disease like atherosclerosis
that requires an intervention, can become depressed and distraught. Who
wouldn't?
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 18, 2006
Consider investigating an allergy to metals or
NICKEL. I've had the T.E.S.T. patch test which showed definite reaction
to nickel. It's hard to find an allergist who does this test but keep looking.
It's not very expensive especially when one considers the fact that you'll
have some answers. Most stent manufacturers warn against inserting them
into persons with sensitivity/allergy to metals. Many doctors don't believe
in metal allergies although there are studies supporting this. So far my
doctor won't deal with this. The horrible itch can be controlled but the
medication puts me to sleep.
Carole Wright, private person, Atlanta area, USA, July 15, 2006
IN APRIL 2006 MY SISTER HAD TWIN STENTS PLACED
IN BOTH LEGS , NO PROBLEM, THEN IN MAY 18, 2006 THEY PLACED ONE STENT IN
THE HEART, NEAR A SMALL VEIN, SHE ALSO HAD ANOTHER ARTERY THAT WAS 40 TO
50 % BLOCKED, BUT DID NOT FIX. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE DR. HAD PLACED THE
STENT , SHE HAD SEVERE PAINS IN HER CHEST COULDN'T BREATH NECK PAIN , THEY
GAVE HER IV NITRO, AND THROUGH THE NIGHT, SINCE THAT TIME SHE CONT TO HAVE
PAINS IN CHEST , SOB, AND AT TIMES JAW PAIN , AND HAS NO ENERGY AND FEELS
TERRIBLE. THE HAVE RAN SPEC TEST, AND OTHER TEST AND STATED THEY ARE ALL
NORMAL. MY SISTER IS VERY DEPRESSED AND SCARED, SHE WASNT HAVING ANY PROBLEMS
WITH HER CHEST BEFORE THIS , ONLY HER LEGS HAD PAIN IN THEM. SHES FAR WORSE
OFF NOW THAN BEFORE, AFRAID OF LOSING HER JOB. SHES ON PLAVIX, AND NITRO
, SHE HAS GOOD DAYS AND BAD DAYS . SHE IS VERY FRUSTRATED. NEVER BEEN SICK
AT ALL HASN'T MISSED WORK IN 4 YRS. TIL NOW. ANY SUGGESTION PLEASE I THOUGHT
MAYBE IT WAS THE MEDICATION ON THE STENT. CALLED SIROLIMUS . THE COMPANY
SAID IT WOULD BE OUT THE SYSTEM IN 90 DAYS. PLEASE REPLY.
Shirley D., Kansas, USA, July 13, 2006
I have had this stent, not warned about reactions,
and started getting stopped nasal passages first night, next morning had
almost completely lost my voice, losing my breath when trying to speak,
and a feeing of being choked. A few days later, i am getting progressively
weaker and tired. I have lost all sense of taste, and some hearing. I need
to know if this med will diminish any in the 9 months i am told it will
continue to leach into my system. I am also nauseous, and have a terrible "medicine
like taste" in my mouth.
Byrlanne Hatcher, Lynns Fine Jewelry, Branson, Missouri, USA,
July 12, 2006
Thanks Forum Editor: I stopped all medications
on the advice of my Physician Associate's advice in the absence of my cardiologist.
I went to my regular doctor who put me on Lipitor only to have the same
effect on me -- it felt like my esophagus was going to close up -- they
told me it was anaphylactic shock. Another issue I am having with my doctor
is the fact that I had seven blocks. Two have been corrected and the cardiologist
said that's all we are gonna do. I said oh no, you have at least five more
-- two are in a hard to reach place and are very small. They were pushing
for a bypass but i feel since my heart is in such excellent condition why
should I get a bypass when a bypass is usually for a non-functioning or
severely damaged heart. Isn't his being reluctant about unblocking the
others doing to hurt me in the long run? I just don't want a bypass at
this time I am still in very good health. He even commented on the excellent
shape my heart is in.
Jay, New York City, New York, USA, June 27, 2006
Just wanted to chime in here to strongly caution
patients about taking or stopping medications without discussing such changes
with your cardiologist -- and this includes over-the-counter meds as well.
First off, Jay, from NYC -- as we have stated in numerous articles, "Don't
Stop Taking Your Meds" -- clopidogrel (Plavix) and aspirin are extremely
important to continue after stenting to prevent stent thrombosis,
an extremely serious event, should it occur. If you are having an adverse
reaction, discuss it with your cardiologist. There are ways to desensitize
patients, or to switch to ticlopidine (Ticlid) another antiplatelet drug.
But don't just stop (see our recent
news article about this problem). As for antihistamines, again
any medication should be discussed with your physician. Antihistamines
are vasoconstrictors -- they narrow the arteries -- quite the opposite
of what you want, as a patient with coronary artery disease. And some drugs
like Allegra have a pseudoephedrine component, and that is contraindicated
for heart patients. Finally, the likelihood of stent allergy is probably
greater than is reported -- one would have to conclude that from the many
postings here -- but there are many possible reasons for problems, and
these should be discussed with your doctors for two reasons: (1) it helps
you; and (2) it helps your doctor to better understand that some patients
are in fact experiencing less-than-optimal outcomes, and perhaps this can
reveal and help solve this problem.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 26, 2006
My God. Reading through all of these is phenomenal!!
I have had the same trouble as most of you. Especially the itching but
with no rash. I am on Plavix, 88 mg aspirin and Tricor as well as Toprol.
I just quit everything accept for the 88mg of aspirin and I feel great.
I still have light heart burn though. When i was registered at the hospital
they had me under pressure to get French Stents but, I don't know I am
having some problems with the regular ones. They said the french stents
are the rave here in the States. Please help French or American stents.
Jay, New York City, New York, USA, June 26, 2006
Anybody have any success with antihistamines:
Allegra or Zyrtec. Studies show that these are the safest two for heart
people. I tried Benadryl (strictly at nite) had some slight success, but
perhaps not the safest for heart folks (some say it is, some say it is
not). Also, Allegra and Zertec are either non drowsy or limited drowsy.
I have bad angina and other symptoms known to be stent rejection, but no
flow problem at all, no narrowings, all via many studies, and a zero calcium
score, and an EF of 72. Obviously a stent rejection problem.
Steve G., Florida, USA, June 26, 2006
I just received two stents on June 16, 2006.
I am 40 yrs old and diagnosed with coronary heart disease. I have 7 blockages
with two that have been corrected with stents. Ever since my stent insertion
I have had a mild case of low grade heart burn constant thru out the day.
I have had itching from my groin down to my feet up to my chest and basically
thru out my entire body. I went to the emergency room and was given a prescription
for prednisone. I was wondering to if I was allergic to the medicated stents.
Jeff, New York, New York, USA, June 26, 2006
Update to April
12, 2006 posting about Bill and his cypher DES. Bill went through
immune system tests and they all came back normal. His mouth is the same
with a lot of pain, sores and burning tongue with a white overgrowth.
They gave him prednisone again -- helped a little with the pain but broke
his private areas out. Bill's other symptoms are the same coming and
going. His doctor has scheduled him with a allergist to test for Sirolimus.
Even though it has been 9 months they say it can present itself for as
long as several years. Also the allergist is contacting Cordis to get
samples of the metals in the stent to test him for that also. We will
let you know how that goes. Has anyone else had these problems? I know
Rabil's father had pain in his mouth. His doctor doesn't think it is
hypersensitivity but he said he could be miserable the rest of his life
and didn't know really what to do. Bill's doctor does think it is stent
related but has tested Bill already for other conditions caused by stents
such as peripheral neuropathy, arthralgias, etc. and have found nothing.
His doctor said some people can be desensitized to drugs such as plavix,
aspirin, etc, so they can take them without problems. I asked him about
the prognosis for people who are hypersensitive and he said the stent
will close and the outcome is probably death. The doctor quoted 5% of
people are. That is one out of 20-sounds high to me. I also asked the
doctor about the stent metals being sealed off after it was healed. He
said that is true with a bare metal stent but DES because the polymer
is porous can still bleed through to the blood stream. If you get a infection
in a polymer you can't get rid of it either because the germ will harbor
in it and the antibiotic can't get to it. We had this happen to our son
30 years ago with a procedure. We would not have chosen this because
of that. A stent is listed as a option by Cordis and even in some of
the AMA literature. This either needs to be rewritten or patients need
to be given an option. I asked the doctor if some one was allergic to
nickel and other metals and had trouble with aspirin, What would you
do? He said I would put a stent in without nickel and put them on plavix.
Polymers, nickel, and all these other metals have been around forever
and the medical profession and the FDA knew people had problems with
them. Really people having problems with this stent is not any surprise.
It would have had to been expected and predicted but no one seems to
have any answers. I would like to hear from Darrell and some of the rest
of you about how you are doing! Better I hope.
Terrie Blanton, Hamilton, Ohio, USA, June 24, 2006
I really have a bad reaction for 2 years now,
from my one big stent sandwich (2 cypher stents in one, sandwiched Jan
28 at Cleveland Clinic, first little stent May 04'). I did not know this
was the problem, until I just thought of it some months after recent angiogram
and CT confirmed: completely open vessels, zero calcium score, and 72 EF.
Yet severe angina pressure type pain all nite and in the AM, then less
severe throughout the afternoon and eve. Coronary Endarterectomy is the
only way to remove stents. Very tricky and dangerous surgery. I will see
if it can be done via the Da Vinci robot at Cleveland Clinic. My symptoms
are not simple things like hives. I have pain signifying a life threatening
situation. I am developing inflammation throughout the heart whenever I
try to exercise, and other times. I was previously very athletic. I also
have nausea when it happens, and tingling all over my chest and upper extremity,
and burning in the heart, and some arrhythmia, and a feeling like you have
an infection but you don't. Also exhaustion. I had fever for 30 days each
time stent was placed. All my drugs were researched and excluded by me
over and over again. I tried many things to at least lessen inflammation
of myocardium, other heart tissue, etc. Tried many medicines, supplements,
to no avail. Turmeric a tiny bit helpful, but be careful, a strong antiplatelet
(blood thinner). Also rubbing arnica cream on chest over and over a little
helpful. Toprol XL very necessary. I like to try these less nasty remedies.
I know many other people with the same medical story I have. Correspondence
with anyone welcome. Just post a response.
Steven G., Florida, USA, June 24, 2006
Dear M.J. -- without getting into your
specific case, we'd just like to point out that the reason angioplasty
(and often stents) are done when a heart attack patient presents is not
just to prevent a re-arrest, but to literally stop the infarction in
its tracks. Angioplasty is THE recommended treatment for Acute MI with
ST segment elevation (STEMI) and the use of it can save precious heart
muscle (time is muscle). The AHA/ACC guidelines states that angioplasty
and/or stenting are not recommended for blockages of less than 70%.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 24, 2006
Carole -- sorry if you interpreted our information
as an argument. There really is none and we wholeheartedly agree with your
comments about patients and physicians working together. This also applies
to M.J.'s comments about not
being "sue happy", but just wanting to serve as "a change
agent". We call to your attention an article that appeared last month
in the New England Journal of Medicine (it's on our news page
-- scroll down to the May 25, 2006 article "Making
Patient Safety the Centerpiece of Medical Liability Reform" by
Senators Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama) which offers some of the same
advice. The quote we pulled was: "Studies show that the most important
factor in people's decisions to file lawsuits is not negligence, but ineffective
communication between patients and providers. Malpractice suits often result
when an unexpected adverse outcome is met with a lack of empathy from physicians
and a perceived or actual withholding of essential information." We
can't make recommendations for medical care, but let us know if you find
a doctor who is able to help you with your particular situation.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 20, 2006
Editor - I'm not interested in trading barbs with
you. I have a serious problem which has cost me a lot both in terms of
a life and money. I'm trying to find a doctor who also shares the belief
that doctors and patients can learn from each other. Maybe if we worked
together, some of these problems can be solved, but only if a dr honestly
listens. I'd hoped that I might find such a doctor from this site.
Carole W., Georgia, USA, June 20, 2006
Dear Editor, Your advice
is well noted about going to an "Interventional Cardiologist". I have finally
been referred to a Heart Failure Specialist (same thing). With testing,
it has been determined there is no infection, which was a symptomlogical
concern. The next step is an ultrasound to determine the content and density
of the pocket the pacemaker is in and also ELISA testing will begin at
that time. These are the least invasive procedures and part of their process
of elimination. That said... I have been told and done research as to the
reason for putting the stents in at the time a person is admitted to an
ER in cardiac arrest. Implantation can stop the immediate risk of re-arrest
by opening up blocked blood vessels. Mine were not totally blocked and
blockage was NOT the cause of my arrest. There was no reason to put the
stents in at the time they were, other than it was convenient because everything
was in place to do so. It would have been just as viable, though more time
consuming to "cut away" plaque build up or to implant just a balloon, till
the person is fully conscious and able to make a qualified decision. I
am angry but not sue happy and hope that I can become a change agent to
this process which I feel violated my freedom of choice and my right to
give informed consent.
M.J., Washington State, USA, June 18, 2006
My 83 year old stepmom has been complaining of
nausea, severe aches, and an overall feeling of achiness, fatigue and just
feeling awful. She had a medicated stent put in within the last year and
was put on Plavix. I am trying to help her through this process and am
brand new to this particular problem. Specific questions 1) Can she ask
to have the medicated stent taken out and a non-medicated stent put in?
2)From the little bit I read in Forum, it sounds like Plavix and the medicated
stent can produce similar symptoms. Is there any way to pinpoint which
source her problems are coming from? Would appreciate your input.
Carol L., New Jersey, USA, June 18, 2006
Carole -- you've sent a number of postings into
this Forum and, as we've written, we sympathize with your problems. And
yes, we edited your previous very-long post to make it easier to read.
We also edited the post below for the same reason (we ask our readers to
be concise and we state on the submission page that we might edit long
posts for readibility). We also must take exception to your assumption
that this site is "monitored" by the medical profession and/or
industry (I believe you mean "censored"). Angioplasty.Org is
an independent educational site. We know of few places on the internet
that make it possible for cardiology patients to share these types of stories.
We hope that by sharing these experiences, patients and physicians can
learn from each other and become partners in solving these health issues.
That being said, the issue of metal allergies is well-known
by surgeons -- most surgical implants have some metallic component, usually
surgical stainless steel. It may be that in your case you were not asked,
as others have reported here. This is why we have this topic -- to call
attention to this issue to both patients, their families and physicians.
And we hope that yours and other stories will do just that.
On the flip side, literally millions of patients around
the world have had stents implanted without the kinds of allergic reactions
you've experienced, and many have had their lives bettered, if not outright
saved. The procedure has been well-established as a treatment for over
two decades now. Which is not to say there are not problems which need
solving, or that your experience is any the less painful. Perhaps a specialist
who treats allergies could help you. Maybe your symptoms are not from
the metal -- it would seem important to verify this. Speaking of specialties,
you refer to vascular surgeons -- do you mean interventional cardiologists?
We're assuming you had a stent placed in your heart's arteries. We hope
you find some answers and, if you do, please let others know by posting
here -- concisely, please....
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 17, 2006
Editor-- Just read my edited post. 1)Yes, a vascular
surgeon told me that there is no such thing as an allergy to nickel. Yes
that is shocking, especially since the promotional information of a stent
manufacturer was in plain view, not 3 feet from where he stood. Then saw
another vascular surgeon who knew that some stents are not to be inserted
into people with NICKEL allergies. He he didn't realize that stainless
(or surgical) steel is not an entity unto itself, but is a composition
of other metals. I am in terrible pain, and have been for years. Drs from
several specialties agree with me "off the record" yet the vascular surgeons
deny there is a problem. Like the other lady, neither I nor my family were
EVER ASKED for any information as to whether or not my body would tolerate
a metal stent. I didn't ask for these stents. I wouldn't have ever taken
this chance if I had had the opportunity to investigate them - there were
alternative, MORE PROVEN, alternatives to my problem. No one gave me that
option. So, is there a website NOT MONITORED by the medical profession
or device manufacturer, as this site must be, at which other victims can
share information?
Carole W., Georgia, USA, June 17, 2006
My fiance, who is only 35, has just had a stent
put in because of a blockage in his aorta that caused loss of blood flow
to his foot which caused pain & discloration in his foot. A few days after
the stent has been put in his foot will look like it is getting a normal
coloring back, but then might look darker & more discolored an hour later,
is that normal?
K., Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, June 13, 2006
Dear Angioplasty.Org Staff, Thank you for posting my first
blog and realized after reading your response and re-reading what I had
submitted, that I left out a key piece of information which is that I was
unconscious when the decision was made to put the stents in or I would
have never agreed to them because my reactivity to nickel is near toxic
with actual burns developing with dermal contact within the first hour
of contact. It is possible the polymer coating and immune suppressing drug
reduced this initial reaction but on the other hand, I have never found
anything which will create a barrier to nickel isotopes and my skin. Another
angiogram is in the offing as I am having symptoms consistent with restenosis
and as I said before, potential bypass surgery to remove the stents.
M.J., Washington State, USA, June 10, 2006
Dear M.J. -- we sympathize with your problems.
The companies, however, don't seem to be witholding the information as
you state (see last month's posting from
W.S. -- a list of all the materials used in their stents, supplied by both
J&J and Boston Scientific). The ICD can be removed, although it's a
bit tricky and definitely. like all procedures, has risks involved -- although
it's not open heart surgery. Stents cannot really be "removed",
although your surgeon may be talking about bypass surgery for other reasons.
As we've stated many times, allergy to stainless steel or other metals
is listed in all stent manufacturers' Instructions For Use (IFU) as a contraindication,
for bare metal stents as well as drug-eluting stents. The question is whether
your symptoms are actually being caused by the metal in the devices. Check
out other postings -- Mr. King
from North Carolina reports that a prednisone shot helped him. Let
us know what you find out.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 10, 2006
I had J&J Cordis Cypher stents put in November
2005 as well as a St. Jude's ICD. I was unconscious when I was admitted
to the hospital. My daughter swears up and down she told the emergency
room personnel that I had severe metal allergies. Years ago I was tested
for reactivity to surgical stainless steel and nickel. I was later informed
that my arteries were not completely occluded and not responsible for
my MI. It never occurred to me that anything other than plastics or plastic
coated products would be used internally and so did not realize the stents
and also an implanted ICD were composed of metals which were in direct
contact with my tissue. I have had problems consistent with an allergic
response since I became cognizant of my surroundings; swelling in my
left chest region under the clavicle, up the left side of my neck and
frequently my jaw aches. My left shoulder is locked up and I'm unable
to fully use my left arm. there is mild discoloration to the skin, it
itches yet is painful to touch. There are other things also but because
of the side effects to the medications I am on it is uncertain where
one thing begins and another leaves off. The team of doctors I am now
working with are trying to determine the extent of my immune response
to the various metals. I have been told, that potentially, I am looking
at open-heart surgery to remove the stents and the ICD, well that subject
hasn't been broached yet. It frustrates me that J&J are so proprietary
over their product, they will not provide samples of the material the
stents are made from. Like with any research topic, Confidential Disclosure
Agreements are common and binding. If signed by doctors receiving the
materials to be able to perform testing, J&J would benefit by receiving
more complete and conclusive information regarding their stents.
M.J., Washington State, USA, June 8, 2006
I would like to thank
the Forum for its existence. Regarding possible stent allergic reaction
-- I posted my concern on June
27, 2005 after I had been stented with 3 Taxus2 drug
eluting stents realizing that I had a nickel allergy. (Frankly, the cost
of stenting vs. open heart was a real consideration.) I had developed
hives. After a shot of Prednisone these did go away. (Long term Prednisone
use would not be a pleasant option because of very real posibility of
mental side effects). I did consider possible drug allergies and decided
to stay on [Plavix] because Ticlid seemed to have a larger number of
possible side effects. The hives have not returned. From what I am reading
it seems that the long term possibilities of the nickel reaction would
lessen. It would be interesting to know how many people continue to have
reactions after the drugs are changed, or if people do develop reactions
after having the stents in for a long period. I personally hesitated
posting again as I wanted to see if the reaction would resurface in the
near term.
B. King, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, June 7, 2006
Dear W.S. -- we ran an article about stent allergies
and the study published by Dr. Bennett back on December
29, 2005. We also have spoken with Dr. Bennett and applaud the work
of the research team. As you can tell from the fact you found this Forum
topic (currently almost 140 postings), our site is one of the few places
where this stent allergies are discussed. That being said, we are impressed
that you have gotten all the information below and, moreover, that you
have found a way to test for all these posssible allergies. Please keep
us informed as to the results. You are right about nickel -- all stent
manufacturers include a warning in their IFU (Instructions For Use) that
cautions physicians not to use stents in patients with known allergies
to surgical stainless steel (nickel is a component). Of course, as you
can read below, there are definitely cases where the information about
a patient's allergy is either not known, or not communicated.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 2, 2006
My mother needs to be tested
for stent ingredient allergy before the procedure. Received stent ingredients
from J&J's Cordis Cypher Sirolimus Stent and Boston Scientific's Taxus
Drug Eluting Stent. Ingredients from each manufacturer Spring 2006 are
as follows:
J&J Sirolimus Stent: 316L stainless steel which is made
up of: Carbon 0.018%, Chromium 17.23%, Copper0.13%, Manganese 1.73%, Molybdenum
2.66%, Nitrogen 0.036%, Nickel 13.57%, Phosphorus 0.02%, Sulfur 0.001%,
Silicon 0.56%, Iron 64.04%, Rapamycin (Wyeth drug on Stent), Polymers (Medical
plastics) which is made up of: Parylene C, Polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate,
and Poly n-butyl Methacrylate.
Boston Scientific Taxus Stent: 316L stainless steel
which is made up of: Carbon 0.018%, Chromium 17.23%, Copper0.13%, Manganese
1.73%, Molybdenum 2.66%, Nitrogen 0.036%, Nickel 13.57%, Phosphorus 0.02%,
Sulfur 0.001%, Silicon 0.56%, Iron 64.04% Paclitaxel (Bristol M/Squibb
Drug on Stent, Translute Polymer Carrier (plastics) which are made up of:
SIBS [ poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene] which breaks down into, Styrene,
and 1,3-di (2-methoxy-2-proply-5-tert butyl benzene) isobutylene units.
I found an allergist who is willing to test my mother;
however, I am having great difficulty getting medical samples from Johnson & Johnson.
Boston Scientific is helping more and I may actually get some samples from
them. Other things I have found out on this arduous journey is that nickel
may be the culprit in some allergy cases. Interesting article on allergic
reaction: www.virtualallergycentre.com/news.asp?artid=7655. Dr.Bennett
who is listed in the article has met with representatives from Johnson
and Johnson as well as other companies and is a champion for stent allergy
test kits. I hope this helps anyone who is looking to be tested. Good luck!
We need it.
W.S., USA, May 24, 2006
Carole -- if you read through the postings on
this topic, especially our reply
to C.M. on April 27, you'll see that contraindications for patients
with metal allergies ARE noted by the stent manufacturers in their package
inserts (required by the FDA). So no patient with a known metal allergy
should be getting a stent. Fortunately these patients are few. But since
there is no routine testing for metal allergies before stents are placed,
it seems to be the working assumption that patients with an allergy to
metal should already know that they have this problem. And then, are they
routinely asked this specific question? You don't mention how you have
found proof of your allergy. And we'd hope that a doctor wouldn't really
say that "there's no such thing as an allergy to metal" -- perhaps
the doctor was saying that he/she didn't think that an allergy was the
problem in your case. As for removing the stent via vascular surgery, that's
not really practical or even possible. The stent gets covered over by the
inner arterial lining within a few months -- at which time the metal is
no longer in contact with the bloodstream, so allergic symptoms should
also subside.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 23, 2006
I've had several angioplasty procedures. Now I
have proof that I have an allergy to metals, including the components of
stainless or surgical steel. My doctor ignores me and my problems, another
says there's no such thing as an allergy to metal. So, does anyone know
of a vascular surgeon near Atlanta, who will get this metal out of me?
Carole W., Georgia, USA, May 22, 2006
In January 2006 I had a Taxus Express2 placed
in my RCA, since then I have experienced periods of swelling in belly,
hands, face, legs, I am on Plavix and now 81mg of aspirin, prior 325Mg,
I am wondering if any one else has had this problem, along with throwing
up blood.
Jim S., Pennsylvania, USA, May 16, 2006
My angioplasty was less than 3 weeks ago. I have
a drug-eluting stent and today I was shocked to see red splotches on my
legs and stomach that are itchy. At first my wife thought they were mosquito
bites. I remembered reading about some side affects reported for drug eluting
stents. Could I be experiencing this? I did have some unusual back pain
yesterday, which I didn't think was related, and otherwise just had a check
up which everything looked great. My blood pressure is 120/66, and I've
healed perfectly at the incision site. My breathing has been relatively
good, but some shortness of breath occasionally. My cardiologist said it
was normal, and that I'm doing well and should begin my normal excersize
routine. I plan to resume playing tennis and walking everyday. Has anyone
else experienced these itchy splotches?
T. D., Los Angeles, California, USA, May 13, 2006
Diagnosing an allergic or adverse reaction like
the ones being reported below can be challenging. There are people who
are allergic to the metal in stents. It's surgical stainless steel and
contains nickel. Interestingly Dawn, your old AVE stent is made of this
material, so the fact that you haven't previously shown reactions is interesting.
Then there's the polymer plastic coating on the new drug-eluting stents,
as well as the medications embedded in them. The number of proven allergic
reactions to these is very small, however, it's widely agreed that stent
allergies are under-reported. Still, the wide range of medications that
stent patients get put on all have some side effects associated with them,
again very small. But when there are so many possible sources the chances
that a given patient may have an adverse reaction to at least one of them
is likely. We're not doctors, but a suggestion to patients is to sit down
with each medication you are taking, both prescription and any over-the-counter,
and look at all the known side effects. For example, some ACE inhibitors
cause a dry cough, Plavix has been known to cause a rash, statins can cause
muscle pain. And depression after a heart procedure, especially in women,
is a known "side effect" and is something that can be treated.
One of the purposes of this Forum is for patients to post experiences and
trade stories. And maybe help each other deal with these complex issues
and help their doctors (who have very limited time) as well.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 28, 2006
My mother had 2 medicated stents (not sure of
which medications) inserted on Feb.14, 2006. She had been a vibrant, fun
loving woman prior to the procedure. Since the procedure, her life has
been a nightmare. Dr. placed her on Toprol, plavix, altace, lipitor, and
an aspirin. She immediately began to experience terrible side effects which
include: anxiety, confusion, sleepless nights, dry cough , rash-like appearance
on her cheeks, stomach problems, trouble swallowing (feeling as if there
is a lump in her throat, trouble concentrating. Needless to say we have
been back and forth to the doctor's office more times than I can count.
Dr. blamed Toprol and she was weaned off. Symptoms have not disappeared.
Of course Dr. now suggests she should speak to a therapist. She had never
experienced problems prior to all this medication, so I am sure this is
a direct result of all this medication. Thank you for this web page. I
am at my wits end trying to figure out how to help my mother become the
woman she was before this procedure. Had we only known, we never would
have had the procedure done. Any advice is greatly appreciated. I have
exhausted all avenues.
lori pacchiano, brooklyn, new york, usa, April 27, 2006
I had my 1st stent in 2001 in RCA area. Afterwards
I felt better than I had for at least a year prior, (bouncing off the walls)with
so much energy.The stent used was an Ave. Never appeared to have any problems
with the area and it is still open and working. In August 2002 I had a
stent placed mid LAD, did not feel well from the time I was released. I
was having problems and they did a brachytherapy on the stent 3-4 months
later and then back in to have another stent butted to it in June 2003.
Both stents done to LAD were by Cordis, 1st not medicated, 2nd was. I ended
up switching cardio clinics and ended up having triple by-pass January
2004. I am 48 now and still continue to have problems. I am very allergic
to metal (nickel). The hospital was notified of allergy before procedures
and I do believe that is what has caused all of my problems. I found out
last July 2005 that the lower by-pass is closed so now take imdur to keep
chest pain away. I have not felt right since the Stent that was done in
2002, I tire very easy, metal taste periodically, rash on both hands they
call Granuloma Annular(it is under the skin and forms along the veins)
and the Dr's say they don't know what causes it. I have had infections
affecting tonsils at least twice in the last year, my lower legs will itch
horribly and get a heavy feeling/ache, my skin on arms appear to have a
rash sometimes and lower arm darker discoloration and sun sensitive. More
sensitive to jewelry that contains nickel than I was before. The number
of times I ended up hospitalized and ending up with by-pass surgery has
been so frustrating, even more so because I cannot say I feel good still.
I have given up contacting the Dr's, they say they don't think it is allergy
related to the stent and I believe they don't want to hear it, yet they
don't know what is causing my problems. I am only 48 years old and worried
about how things are going to progress. I can relate to the frustration
of so many at this site. I feel that even though we might be the minority
of stent receivers that have issues we are still important and deserve
strait forward answers. The different symptoms I have had are not imagined,
they are real, I am concerned about my future.
Dawn Reich, St. Paul, MN USA, April 27, 2006
C.M. -- all stents carry
warnings in the package insert that their use is contra-indicated in patients
who are allergic to surgical stainless steel or nickel. This doesn't mean
that it never happens -- as you can read in this Forum, it happens...and
the effects vary with the person. Unfortunately, once implanted and expanded
against the artery wall, a stent can't really be removed. How do the wrong
patients gets these stents? Sometimes patients don't know that they're
allergic; sometimes the caution is overlooked and the patient isn't queried.
But this is a small minority and most people have no problem with the metal.
After all, there are many prosthetics used in the body today, from knee
and hip replacements to stents to bolts holding broken bones -- most made
of metal. And all medical devices have to be tested in human trials before
they are approved. By the way, doctors do not handle this site -- we provide
a Forum, resources and information for our users.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 27, 2006
My response is really a question for a medical
person, such as the doctors who handle this site. What happens if a person
who has allergies to metal, particularly nickel, has metal stents inserted?
No one is born with metal parts, so how do we know it's safe to put metal
in later? And, are stents tested on human beings or animals before an FDA
approval?
C.M.,April 27, 2006
I had 3 Cypher Stents placed on 03-02-06. Since
then my life has been a nightmare. I came home from the cath with extreme
swelling in my hands and ankles with severe joint pain, unable to even
hold myself up. Then I started to have an allergic reaction to both Plavix
and Ticlid. I lost muscle control, couldn't walk, lift my arms and legs
I was so weak. I have chest pains which I never had before, a weird tightness
in my chest and my blood pressure now jumps to 180/110 at times. I have
a rapid pounding heartbeat and chills, infections, tremors, diarrhea cannot
stop taking the Plavix as they tell me the stents will clog up.This has
been going on 2 months now. I don't know if it's the stents or the Plavix.
I think both. They have ruined my life.
Lisa Mccall, Easley, South Carolina, USA, April 25, 2006
hello Terri B.: have you considered having your
husband see a naturopathic doctor? there are certain protocols that may
offer some promise. trouble is though, the patient usually has to bear
all the expense when going the alternative route. anyway, wanted to send
this thought your way, wouldn't hurt to look into. sharon brumbaugh
sharon brumbaugh, oregon, April 25, 2006
Rabil, if you look through these posts and also
over at the topic on Plavix and Aspirin, you'll see that Ticlid (ticlopidine)
is sometimes used as an alternative to Plavix if the patient is allergic.
Ticlopidine, however, has its own set of side effects which sometimes are
better, sometimes worse. Mouth pain is not something we've heard before
as a reaction to Plavix. Is he on other drugs, including over-the-counter
meds?
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 24, 2006
My father had 3 cypher stents put in on April
6, 2006 and was given Plavix. We believe the Plavix is causing him to have
pain in his mouth. He feels like is mouth is going to come out of his face.
His doctor says there is nothing better for him to take than Plavix. We
do not know what to do.
Rabil, Ohio, April 24, 2006
Once again a update
to February 05, 2006 posting about my husband Bill and his cypher
Sirolimus-eluting stent. Bill went to another cardiologist the end of
February 2006 and he took him off the plavix immediately. The only medication
Bill has been on since is aspirin and Lorazepam. He still has the burning
sensations but not as bad. Energy level is better. Still has soreness
in muscles but not as often. Muscle wasting has seemed to stop. Still
has ringing in ears, eyes bother him, sometimes he feels like he is going
to fall when walking but doesn't. One week after off the plavix Bill
developed pneumonia and was put on antibiotics and prednisone. He then
developed ulcers in the mouth. He has red ulcers and white bumps in his
mouth. Doctor said it was thrush caused from the prednisone. He did get
over the pneumonia but can't get rid of the thrush. The doctors did a
MRI for MS and it came back normal. No sign of MS, stroke, tumor or anything.
Now he has to go to a ear, nose and throat doctor for this. The doctor
thinks it is some kind of allergy due to a compromised immune system.
Could the sirolimus bring something like this about? He has been tested
for just about everything and they have found nothing except he all of
a sudden has Carpal Tunnel. I am beginning to believe they have messed
up his immune system with this stent or he is hypersensitive to it. Our
doctor said if you are hypersensitive to the stent there isn't much they
can do about it. Does anyone know what happens to these people who are?
Do they just suffer or do they die or what? Any information about this
would greatly be appreciated! I don't think the doctors will ever admit
to this and at this time I am to the point What else could it be? He
was fine before this stent.(They originally did the MRI because they
thought all his problems were due to some form of neuropathy. He has
been given every drug known for thrust and nothing has worked) Thank
You.
Terrie B., Ohio, USA, April 12, 2006
Kevan, like I said, the tests for Lyme disease
are notoriously inconclusive -- I had a friend who clearly had Lyme, complete
with full-blown symptoms, fever, bulls-eye rash, etc. and the test showed
negative for Lyme. She was treated with long-term antibiotics (at least
30 days of heavy dose doxycycline or amoxicillin) and she recovered.
B.C., New York, April 10, 2006
I was tested 3 times for THE TICK problem, the
same doctor that was big on that blamed my dogs and pet deer or deer in
the area which we have none. My current doctors can not give a reason for
the results and the on going infection.
Kevan Holmberg, Mound, Minnesota. USA, April 10, 2006
This is just a quick thought from a lay person
(note: I am not a doctor). The lessening of your joint pain, etc. during
antibiotic therapy is interesting. Have any of your doctors considered
Lyme Disease, a tick-borne illness? Again, this may be way off the mark,
but I live in a high Lyme disease area and have seen many friends suffer
from somewhat mysterious but similar symptoms. Tests sometimes reveal Lyme,
but often they are inconclusive.
B.C., New York, April 10, 2006
I got a rash within one week of the Boston Scientific
[Taxus] stent and started with muscle and joint pains soon after. I have
been a mess ever since October 2004. I have been unable to work due to
being unsteady on my feet. I have developed short memory and have been
hallucinating past 90 days. My muscle and joint pain have been crippling.
I have been to over 15 doctors due to the lack of any answers or treatment.
I have good insurance and have been trying to resolve this problem weekly
since Oct. 2004. The past 90 days I have been at the University of Minnesota
who started to go after the stent idea. I have been off all medications
even aspirin for over 6 months. Most doctors would not entertain Lipitor
or anything would be the reason or never consider the stent as the problem
thinking I must be depressed and cannot explain my high blood pressure
which I did not have before the stent. My problems closely resemble 2/3
of the people going to your site. I'm not the only one or are they. The
U of M has referred me to the Mayo Clinic. They gave up. My cardiac doctor
talked to the chief medical officer at B.S. and was told it not the stent.
(What a surprise.) Although now Most of my joint and muscle problems have
been cured!!!, I was luckily enough to get Strep at a doctor visit 4 weeks
ago and went on antibiotics. Within 3 days most of my problems left. Only
new problem, after 10 days the problems come back, along with the Strep.
I'm on the third dose of the antibiotics and waiting for the infectious
disease appointment at the end of this week. On the 11th day all my joint
and muscle problems return. I go from feeling my age of 52 to feeling age
92 when the drugs stop. Again more questions then answers. Will let you
know what happens after this weeks appointments. I had this happen almost
one year ago going on antibiotics and recovering over night, and went in
to see the doctors right away, but the doctors at that time said it had
nothing to do with your problems. It all came back 10 days later with increased
chest pains. Like I said I was lucky to get a Strep test, I did not have
the classic Strep problems , just a little sore throat. The quick Strep
test was off the charts. I hope this may help somebody.
Kevan Holmberg, Mound, Minnesota. USA, April 10, 2006
I just was implanted with my Taxus Express 2 stent
on 4/7/06 -- I would never have given consent for the procedure had I been
given information regarding the potential side effects -- I received those
the day that I left the hospital after the stent was placed. I made it
clear to my cardiologist that I did not want to do anything that would
cause me to relapse into poor health again -- I have history of GI problems,
Possible lupus or polymyalgia rheumatica and HyperSensitivity Pneumonitis
II: I have felt well for the last two years now I have this thing in me
that could bring those symptoms back -- I would have only allowed the balloon
technique (angioplasty?). Doctors should inform their patients of these
risks when considering any cardiac intevention that might result in a stent.
I have already broken out in hives, itching tongue, lumpy feeling in my
throat and in ER for same. I suppose I will follow suit will the immune
reaction now. I told my doctor I had almost no IGG4 but he must have felt
I had no patient rights. please get the word out to doctors that they need
to advise their patients of these risks so they can make an informed decision.
Robin S., Ohio, April 10, 2006
My husband had two Cypher stents implanted about
3 weeks ago. He has had extreme hives, swelling and aching joints. He stopped
taking all his meds. and finished the prednisone yesterday. We are going
back to the cardiologist today to figure out why he is still having migrating
joint pain and swelling and what blood thinner is okay to try. Not sure
what is causing the allergic reaction. I hope it is not the stent.
Bonnie, Maryland, March 27, 2006
My Mom had PTCA with two drug eluting stents
(Cordis and Taxus each) in April 2005. She was on Clopidogrel (Plavix)
75 mg twice a day and aspirin 150 mg once a day after that. In September
she developed joint pain and swelling with redness in hands, feet and shoulders.
Clopidogrel was stopped and the joint pains reduced. The Doctor put her
on Ticlid (ticlopidine) and after 8 days of taking this medicine, she developed
severe joint inflammation in both ankles, knees, shoulders and elbow ands
she was not able to pick up a glass of water. We stopped Ticlopidine and
the joint pain reduced a bit only to return after 20 days. Since then the
pain remains for a week then reduces and keeps coming back every 20 days
or so in the initially affected joints. In January 2006 blood tests were
carried out in which mainly RA was negative but Anti CCP was strong positive,
ds DNA was positive +1, ANA was negative. The diagnosis is that it might
be Rheumatoid Arthritis. I personally feel that it has been induced by
the drug Ticlopidine. Please refer the websites bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/324/7328/27
and bmj.bmjjournals.com/cgi/content/full/320/7233/483/a. I feel that these
drugs Ticlopidine and Clopidogrel can induce autoimmune diseases like Rheumatoid
Arthritis, Drug induced Lupus etc. I have posted one message on Nov 13,
2005 which can be refered for more details. My Mom is 60 years old and
weighs 58 Kg.
Ramesh Shukla, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, March 24, 2006
My husband had a taxus medicated stent on Feb
12th, 2006. Three weeks later he is having joint swelling and loss of mobility.
Some days he can't even pick up a cup of coffee. The cardiologist sent
him to a rheumatologist. Still unknown what has caused this. He was fine
until the stent and plavix. Does anyone have any answers?
Kathy G., Michigan, March 23, 2006
I have had 4 stents put in also. 2 in november
of 2005 and 2 in march of 06. My doctor told me after the first ones were
put in that if I didn't take the plavix i would die. I saw where one person
was coming off of plavix after 6 months. My grandma was allergic to plavix
and is now just taking aspirin.
Becky P, Ohio, March 22, 2006
I had a stent put in about 4 weeks ago. Upon
returning home, I experienced a rash on my back, pits, and shoulder area
for about 3 days post op. It went away after the 3rd day. I now have just
gotten over the worst allergic reaction of my life. It started 3 days ago
with my hands burning and itching.( I went and bought a lottery ticket,
believing the old wives tale!) Unfortunately, I did not win any money,
but my hands were swollen to make me look like Mickey Mouse. The rashes
went in waves which in turn went into hives. My arms, legs, back, buttocks,
and even my scalp were under hive seige. I went to my cardiologist and
he immediately said you are a classic case of Plavix allergy. I too have
been put on a Prednisone and Benedryl regime and was told to flush the
Plavix into oblivion. I also am on the other drug that was used in place
of Plavix now. Everything seems to be easing now, with very few outbreaks.
Hands are back to somewhat normal. Doc said that about 3 out of 10 people
have these reactions to Plavix. Seems to me, something should be tested
on the individual before prescribing it. I sure do not want to go through
this crap again!
Mitch, Tampa, Florida, March 16, 2006
to the posting about plavix, Bill,I had an allergic
reaction to the plavix i was on 3 months after have my stent implanted.
Red rash under the skin ,I was immedately taken off of the plavix and after
a week i went on a medication called ticilopedine a different blood thinner
and it worked fine no more rash. There are other blood thinners that work.
K., New York, March 13, 2006
I am 48 year old and in great physical shape (exercise
daily) for my age, I have never led a sedentary lifestyle. I experienced
a heart attack last year and walked around with it for three days. After
my catheterization, my Cardiologist said that the heart attack has run
its course and that the lower rear valve was blocked and was to dangerous
to try to open. i am now taking Vytorin 10/20, Plavix 75mg, Toprol XL 25mg,
Altace 2.5mg capsule, and aspirin 325mg. For the last 7-14 days I have
been experiencing extreme muscle pain and tenderness, especially in my
back, stomach and insertion area of the catheterization. Could this be
a side effect of the drugs that were prescribed? any input/feedback would
be greatly appreciated.
Robert Morris, Varina, Virgina, March 10, 2006
I had angioplasty and two stents, and three blockages
fixed, on Feb.8/06. In the first week after that, I developed a burning
painful red rash on the calves of my legs. It was terrible, and I wanted
to scratch it all the time. I went to my doctor who told me it was an allergic
reaction. He gave me a prescription for a cream. It was Ratio-Ectosone
Regular 0.1%. Betamethasone Valerate .1%. I applied it at once. The intense
pain, and redness and soreness disappeared in a couple of days.It has not
returned.
William B., British Columbia, Canada, March 08, 2006
I want to chime in as another person to have experienced
the swelling and itching, burning rash after placement of two Cypher stents.
My stents were placed after an MI on 01/10/06. The rash and swelling appeared
about a month post-surgery. Quite an unpleasant experience, just as described
by others: intense burning and itching between my fingers and toes, on
my abdomen, and in the genital area. The nurse I spoke with at the cardiologist's
office hoped to blame it on anything out of the ordinary, but I have not
switched food, soap, or any other environmental factors. Benedryl helped
somewhat, but the experience was most unpleasant, and was also accompanied
by increased chest pain and shortness of breath. I will be bringing in
this column, as well as any other related info I can find, to my next appointment.
After two weeks, the rash has subsided somewhat.
Lisa C., Washington, USA, February 24, 2006
well, if anyone is interested there is a drug
called enbrel on the market. it is injections twice a week given by yourself.
all I can say for the first time since 11/05 I am out of pain and starting
to walk once again.
walt coates, new jersey, February 24, 2006
The first week of June 2005 I got a stent. Once
I arrived home I noticed red spots on the palms of both hands. I saw the
Doctor and he claimed it was hives and told me to take Benadryl. This helped
somewhat. When fall arrived I had no more hives. I travelled to Mexico
on Dec. 21 2005 and two days later I was covered in hives. I could not
stand the situation so I returned to Canada on Feb. 2 and was put on Prednisone
for 1 week. I was hive free for the week. I began getting hives again subsequent
to finishing the meds and now I am back on Prednisone for 2 more weeks
The Doctor mentioned the trigger may be one of the meds I am on. He has
taken me off of Ramipril for 2 weeks. I am not really sure how this trial
will work. I do have some belief that heat or some allergic reactions to
the environment may be a partial trigger. Has anyone else experienced this
or does someone have answers?
Dave, Ontario, Canada, February 23, 2006
Bonjour à tous. Je suis français et comme vous
tous j ai des problèmes après une intervention de coronographie. Après
l implantation de 4 Stents Taxus dans mes artères en mars 2005, je me suis
trouvé comme vous, face à des effets secondaires face au traitement médical
que m a indiqué mon chirurgien en cardiologie. Du PLAVIX avec du KARDEGIC
(aspirine). Très vite, trois mois plus tard, les effets secondaires sont
apparus mais moins grave que vous tous. Une constipation importante et
malgré des médicaments pour me soulager, prescrit par mon médecin traitant
et aucune amélioration n est apparue. J ai pris contact avec mon cardiologue
pour lui signaler mon cas et modifier mon traitement médical. Il a refusé ma
demande et a maintenu les médicaments préconisés par le chirurgien cardiologue,
c est à dire : le PLAVIX et le KARDEGIC. Pour lui il était important de
maintenir le traitement au moins 1 an, au plus juste 6 mois. 1 mois plus
tard j ai repris contact avec mon cardiologue pour l informer que je n
avais aucune amélioration. J ai insisté durement et il a changé le PLAVIX
par du TICLID. J ai eu une amélioration sur ma constipation, mais une allergie
plus sournoise est apparue sans que je m en rende compte. Un rhume, avec écoulement
nasal, des éternuements très forts avec les yeux qui pleurent. Les mêmes
symptômes qu un rhum des foins ou une allergie à une plante. Cette situation
a durée 7 mois durant lesquels j ai pris des médicaments pour me soigner.
Mais rien ne calmait cette allergie. J ai pris contact avec mon médecin
traitant et nous avons étudié mon cas et devant son impuissance il m a
conseillé de prendre un rendez-vous avec un ORL ( Oto-Rhino-Laryngologie).
Après une consultation chez ce spécialiste il en a déduit que le TICLID était
le responsable de mon allergie et que ce médicament était connu pour cet
effet secondaire. Sur son conseille j ai pris contact avec mon cardiologue
et prés discussion, il était d accord pour que j arrête le TICLID car je
totalisais prés d 1 an de prise de ce médicament. Depuis 1 mois que j ai
arrêté le TICLID, mon rhume et ses conséquences ont disparu. En conclusion
il faut faire très attention aux médicaments que préconisent les médecins
et faire son analyse personnelle pour amener votre médecin à ce diriger
vers une autre direction médicale et utiliser les connaissances d autres
professionnels médicaux. J ai la chance de ne pas avoir à ce jour (février
2006) des effets secondaires aussi grave que vous. Ce qui est vrai, c est
que l implantation de Stents demande une grande vigilance de la part du
chirurgien en cardiologie et surtout de ne pas succomber à la démarche
des laboratoires et produits pharmaceutiques pour gagner de l argent. Bonnes
chances à tous. Armand.
Translation to English of above: Hello to all.
I am French and like you all I had problems after a coronary intervention.
After the implantation of 4 Taxus stents in March 2005, I was like you,
experiencing side effects from the medical treatment -- PLAVIX with KARDEGIC
(aspirin). Very quickly, three months later, the side effects were present
but less serious than you all. Then I became very constipated in spite
of drugs to relieve me. I contacted my cardiologist to modify my medical
treatment, but he said it was important to stay with the drugs recommended
by the interventional cardiologist (Plavix and aspirin) for at least 1
year, more than 6 months. 1 month later I told my cardiologist I had no
improvement. I insisted strongly and he changed the PLAVIX to TICLID. I
had an improvement on my constipation, but a more hidden allergy appeared:
a cold with runny nose, strong sneezes, watery eyes. Similar symptoms like
hay fever. This situation lasted 7 months during which I took drugs to
try to alleviate the symptoms. But nothing calmed this allergy. I contacted
my attending doctor and we studied my case. He referred me to an ORL (Otorhinolaryngology)
who determined that the TICLID was the cause and that this drug was known
for this side effect. I contacted my cardiologist and we stopped the TICLID
because I'd taken it for a year. In the month since I stopped taking it,
my cold and accompanying symptoms have disappeared. In conclusion it is
necessary to pay great attention to the drugs which the doctors recommend
and to make a personal analysis to bring your doctor so he can direct you
to other specialists. To this date (February 2006) I have not experienced
the serious side effects others have reported. What is true, is that the
implantation of stents requires great vigilance on behalf of the interventional
cardiologist and especially not to succumb to the pressure of the hospitals
and pharmaceuticals just to make money. Good luck to all. Armand.
Armand, particulier, FRANCE/VILLEURBANNE, February 22, 2006
I have had 4 stents put in. The last was the medicated
taxus one.Since then (nov) I have lost most mobility in my legs, am in
severe pain, all joints muscles don't work well. I would much have rathered
to even though it may have been shortened somewhat not to be where I am
at today. I have spoke to my doctor and several others, now its laywer
time since the medical world 'knows of no problems' even though the stent
company admits to problems with it. By the way all the other stents along
with the same meds had no problem with. If anyone experienced this type
of severe pain and has contacted the legal system please let me know. Thanks.
walter coates, new jersey, February 20, 2006
I had a PTCA on Dec 27, 2005 with a Taxus Express
placed in RCA. Additional PTCA at home hospital with CYPHER stent placed
in LAD on Feb 1, 2006. Two days later, acniform rash (similar to folliculitis)
on chest, upper back and arms. That evening, somewhat loud sounds of pulse
in head followed by rigor (severe chills). Trip to ER where I was afebrile,
chills & sound of pulse in head resolved. ER doc and my dermatologist felt
rash not related to stent or meds (including Plavix). Derm indicated that
stress, including two PTCA procedures can result in an imbalance of skin
organisms, with a corresponding increase in a fungal (pittyrisis (sp?)
growth. Prescribed Nizoral shampoo to help dry this up. My internist also
concerned about a potential blood-borne infection, checked blood & other
cultures (all were negative and still afebrile). The rash is less problematic
over past week. However, a few additional instances of early morning pounding
pulse in head plus a couple of times with lower grade chilling. The swishing
sound of the pulse (somewhat like the doppler sound of an echocardiogram)
that becomes noticable upon awakeing (1 to 4 AM) has become the most annoying
problem. Anyone else had this situation or thoughts?
Bill, Kansas, USA, February 12, 2006
Thanks for your response to
my first question. I was given a card for the 1st iliac artery stent. That
one was replaced in 2002, and I can't find that card. I was NEVER given
one for the 1st cardiac stent. I asked the surgeon who implanted the 2nd
cardiac stent, and he claims to have given the info to the regular cardiologist,
who denies having received it. Records from the hospital where it was inserted
have not been produced. Isn't there a registry someplace where I could
look my name and then learn which stents I have. I wrote to one dr who
told me that the card wasn't necessary and that no one looks at them anyway.
Other doc took two weeks to send back a form which I need to sign, which
contains all of the info I already included in my letter. And, the note
indicates that it may take some time to do a search. I'm hurting!!! It's
easier to get warranty info about my TV!!! Why are drs so paranoid about
backing up their work or the materials they chose to use in performing
the job??
Also, where can I find out if persons with nickel allergy
are having problems with stents? Also can some of you who have the abdominal
problems describe your problems? My Dr. doesn't think there's a connection
between abdominal problems and the stents. Thanks again.
Carole W., private hurting person, Atlanta area, Georgia, USA,
February 06, 2006
Terrie -- when patients seem to be experiencing
an adverse reaction to Plavix (clopidogrel) doctors often try Ticlid (ticlopidine)
which is a different antiplatelet drug. Darrell from Iowa had Ticlid substituted
for Plavix and his symptoms seem to have disappeared. But these two drugs
are in fact the only ones (in combination with aspirin) which are currently
used to keep drug-eluting stents from causing thrombosis (blood clotting).
We're not giving medical advice, only pointing out what is the current
state of treatment, as described in the medical literature. As for the
polymer dissolving -- it doesn't. Neither of the two currently marketed
drug-eluting stents (Cypher or Taxus) have biodegradable polymers. While
it is true that the drug elution is pretty much finished at around three
months, the polymer itself remains on the metal stent. Newer technologies
are being worked on (Conor MedSystems, Biotronix, etc.) where the polymer
or the stent itself biodegrades, but none are currently approved. It may
or may not be a stent allergy. The only way to know is to change the drug
regimen and see if the symptoms go away. But definitely do this with your
cardiologist who is really the best judge of this. It is definitely not
recommended for patients to go off antiplatelet therapy.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 6, 2006
Update to previous
posting dated 01-24-06 regarding Cypher Sirolimus-eluting stent.
My husband Bill has been back to his regular Doctor and his cardiologist.
They have put him on a anxiety medicine Lorazepam which helps control
the burning and itching sensations in his skin. It is still there though.
He has to continue to take it. Interesting same as Darrell. Bill's doctors
told him plavix was the only antiplatelet drug there is! They also said
they never heard of anyone having problems with plavix. The doctor did
say he could go off the plavix the end of march which would be 6 months
if he could stand it that long. Not sure what he mean't by that? I assume
the stent will be healed and covered over by then? He also stated he
was losing muscle mass in his hands but didn't say why. Told him not
to give up yet he would get him through it Does anyone know what the
doctors are referring too? It is like they are waiting for something?
They do keep checking the redness in his skin especially the hands. Don't
say why and they are not treating him for anything. Sylvester from Cordis
called us and wanted to know how Bill was doing? Told him no better.
I asked him if the polymer on the stent goes away or not? He said it
dissolves to release the sirolimus and they both should be gone after
3 months. Does any one know if it does and if so how long does it take
for it to get out of your system? One of our doctors said the polymer
goes away-one of our other doctors said it didn't. Once again Sylvester
had no answers to what Bill's problems could be but hoped it was the
plavix. Does anyone know if the symptoms to a reaction to nickel are
the same problems Bill is having. Nickel is in the stents. I will let
the forum know how Bill does once off the plavix and I am thankful for
this forum.
Terrie B., Ohio, February 5, 2006
(Update to Dec 28, 2005 posting)
In the last month all allergic symptoms have been minimal to none. Thanks
for your site. I have shared the information with my cardiologist.
M.P., Maryland, February 4, 2006
Re:Stent reaction. I
am pleased to report that my condition has returned to near normal. As
reported earlier, Iowa Heart Center placed me on Ticlid as a replacement
for Plavix. They also recommended Benydril twice daily and Xanax for sleep
and anxiety. I am still not sure which was the most effective but the results
were lots of sleep over several days and a return to near normal condition.
Somewhat tired, maybe due to the trauma but definitely helped to solve
the problem. I intend now to try walking and exercise to regain the strength
that I really need. My sincere thanks to your site which gave me information
which was most informative in talking to the doctors and nurses involved
with my care. My sincerest home is that this will help others who have
gone through this.Darrell
Darrell, Iowa , February 3, 2006
Carole, you should have
been given a card with the stent information on it. Did you get one? Nickel
is part of stainless steel and most metal stents, including the drug-eluting
type, are based on surgical stainless steel.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 3, 2006
Question- How do I find out which stents were
implanted? I've asked the doctors,but all that I get is a run around. Also,
I've read that one can have reactions to the nickel used in bare metal
stents - what are the symptoms? I've read the Taxus patient brochure and
it certainly sounds like I'm have a lot of the problems list as "possible" Thanks
for any help.
Carole, just a private person, Georgia, USA, February 02, 2006
I had stents put in mar 1, 2005 and june 24, 2005
the first was 2 stents and the second time 1 stent. I am on alot of medicine
and have started having trouble with my back and leg hurting. Also, swelling
in my stomach and chest. It's to where it is hard for me to breathe.
Gloria A., Texas , January 30, 2006
Forum Editor--Re your quick response to my topic
discussion regarding Stents. Your forum has added immensely to my knowledge
and help with talking to Doctors. Before the Stent implant I was taking
Lipitor, Lopid, Zestril, Aspirin, Cardizem. After implant they added Plavix.
After consultation with the invasive Cardiologist and my long time Cardiologist
over over 16 years I am now taking Xanax for sleep an anxiety, Discontinued
Plavix and substituted Ticlid and additionally Benadryl daily. Last night
I had the first good nights sleep I had in almost a month. Will keep this
forum appraised of further developments with this regimen. So far I am
feeling better Thanks again. Darrell
Darrell, Iowa, January 28, 2006
Darrell, first of all, thank you for sharing your
story with us. You've done all the right things, like immediately informing
your doctor(s) of your reaction. And you're right that the symptoms you
experienced are very similar to those others on this Forum have described.
One question: what new drugs are you taking since the stenting? Usually
Plavix and aspirin are prescribed -- they provide antiplatelet therapy
while the inner lining of the artery grows over the stent -- this helps
prevent the blood clotting around the stent and causing stent thrombosis,
a serious situation, but one that only occurs in 1 out of 200 cases. Plavix
or Ticlid are usually taken for 3-6 months or longer, and may cause an
allergic reaction. But antiplatelet therapy should not be stopped. Let
us know what more you find out. This is a very important subject that we
are finding out more and more about and, as you said, this Forum and the JACC
study from Northwestern seem to be the only places (on the Internet
at least) where this is being discussed.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 27, 2006
On November 25, 2005, I
had an implant of 3 CYPHER Stents for plugged arteries of my heart. I had
a follow up schedule to visit my cardiologist on December 28 but due to
a conflict of the Dr. it was rescheduled for December 14. Within that elapsed
time, I had reported to the Dr. that I had some Angina while walking a
relatively short distance. At the appointment, I was assured that I did
not have Angina because it was too soon for re-blockage to occur. On January
4, 2006 I worked around some bathroom fixtures and that evening broke out
into a horrible burning rash in the entire upper body. My body felt like
it was on fire. My eyes watered and burned. Sleep was then and still is
almost impossible. My first thought was that some bacteria or mold from
the bathroom was the culprit. After taking an over the counter Benadryl,
there was some relief from the itching rash of the skin but the burning
sensation continued. My wife and I had scheduled a short cruise and left
for Florida on January 8. The itching burning rash continued to occur under
my armpits and in particular the abdomen, groin and highly inflamed scrotum.
I reported all of this to my cardiologist at home but they told me they
had no clue as to the cause. I visited a General MD in Florida who prescribed
Prednisolone and various counter creams to rub on the skin. I settled on
using some of my wife's Aloe Vera hand cream which gave the most relief
from the skin part of the problem. We left on our cruise on January 14
and returned to Florida on January 21. I reported to both doctors from
St. Marten and St. Thomas and received no additional instructions except
to keep them informed. The burning sensation settled in my lower abdomen,
tops of my hands, in the armpits, in my lower legs and feet all of which
seemed to be more internal than external. The skin of normally cool to
the touch. Today January 25, 2006 my wife insisted that I get on the internet
and check out allergies to Stents. This site and the NWU Study confirms
that I should listen to my wife more often. There is hardly an exception
to my condition and those symptoms described at this site and the NWU Study.
Two of my toes have turned black and blue. I thought I had injured them
while walking around barefoot. Tomorrow I talk to my Cardiologist and whomever
else will listen.
Darrell, Iowa, January 25, 2006
To Angioplasty.Org Staff, Response to your Question. My
husband's blood pressure since they took him off the blood pressure medicine
ranges from 100/71 to 135/76. Doctors haven't answered us to whether this
is normal now or not! We have asked them but haven't gotten any answer.
If you ask them too many questions they seem to get ticked at you. Also
we have notified Cordis twice -- they offered no answers either. We have
notified the FDA but they are advising us to ask our Doctors. We have a
number of times to no avail. We have tried to find out. Thank You!!
Terrie B. Ohio, January 25, 2006
Terrie -- as for your husband's low blood pressure
post-stenting -- did it come back to normal after stopping the meds? If
so, that might be a signal that the stenting had an immediate benefit.
As for the symptoms you described he is having, similar ones are reported
throughout this Forum Topic, as well as the one on Plavix.
It would seem to be an allergic reaction to something. The "something" could
be a medication, like Plavix, or possibly the drug-eluting Cypher stent,
more specifically to the polymer-coating on the stent. A team of physicians
from Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago recently
published a paper in the Journal of American College of Cardiology
on the subject. Maybe a print-out of this article could help your physicians
determine the problem. You can also try contacting Cordis to report the
reaction. Let us know what you find out.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 25, 2006
Cypher Sirolimus-eluting
coronary stent -- My husband had one of these stents put in 09-30-05. He
is 54 years old and was active and in good health before this. He was on
High blood pressure medicine but that was all. He has had nothing but problems
since this procedure. They had to take him off cholesterol medicine and
blood pressure medicine because it dropped too low. He is on plavix and
aspirin only. His other symptoms are itching and burning sensation on chest,
back, feet, hands especially between fingers, stomach and head. If he does
anything like walking or working with his hands his muscles get sore, ache
and burn worse. He is having a hard time doing alot of things. He suffers
all the time and quality of life is not good. Good thing he is retired
because he couldn't work. He also has dizzy spells, redness of skin all
over, hoarseness and sore throat, acne type lesions on neck, head and face
and all these symptoms come and go at random. Has been to 5 specialists-no
one has a answer. He has also been tested for all kinds of things. All
test found everything to be normal. Could this be plavix or stent reaction?
We are desperate for answers. Doctors are not even trying to relieve his
symptoms. Any one else got this problem?
Terrie B., Ohio, January 24, 2006
Update to previous posting. I went to the dermatologist,
they took a skin biopsy, results were inconclusive. Highly inflamed skin
and ezema, put on Clobex. The rash is going away. My cardiologist says
it is the Plavix, that rashes will continue, but that I must stay on it.
My primary doctor says it is the Lipitor, and has taken me off it. I am
experiencing pain at the site of the stent, but the cardiologist says it
is not angina. He says I am highly sensitive and not to worry. For the
Angioplasty.Org Staff, I went back on the Plavix and Lipitor after reading the article
from Chicago, so I was only off my meds for 4 days. My stent is a drug-induced
stent, but my cardiologist does not seem concerned with the recent study.
I know my body better than he does and will continue to monitor the reactions
I am experiencing and document them. Science is amazing but not infalable.
Pat, Oregon, January 13, 2006
On 3/3/05 I had three Taxus
Express 2 stents put in two was piggyback because the closure was so long.
In 1995 I had one 60% and 2 20% and thought I should have a Cath. was never
put on any med. at all by my Dr. in 95, why? good question. I had a better
life before the stents than ever after. Put on Plavix and aspirin 325mg
and was woundering why I would feel I was dying every day and finally another
Dr. said it was probably the Plavix. I quit the Plavix still taking the
aspirin and feel better but nothing like before even with the closures.
Now having bad back, neck, knee and chest pains very severe, can't hardly
go now. Always been super active, 6' - 170 lb. I never thought this could
happen after stents was put in! I am going to Spokane to have someone check
me that may know something !! I am wondering if the chest pains are from
a closed stent. Anyone else having joint or muscle problems after stents?
R. D. Rice, Washington, January 12, 2006
This is a follow up to previous postings. The
tests I had done Monday and Tues turned out fine. So I told the doctor
I didnt have this pain before the stents, how will I know If the pain is
something to be concerned about? Stress and cold weather bother me way
more than before..............
Lynn, Wisconsin, January 12, 2006
My 47 yr old husband had 5 stents inserted back
in July and 2 weeks after his hospitalization he developed a severe rash,
mostly in the lower waist area, at the neck line and behind his ears. He
had very large welts. When his lips started to swell we had to rush him
to the ER. They believed the reaction was due to the ace inhibitor he had
been started on in the hospital (lisonopril?) After treatment with prednisone
and eliminating that drug from his regimen, his reaction did diminish.
Although it seems like it was the drug that he was allergic to, it took
2 weeks for the allergy to surface and he was on a very low dose of the
med. The stents ended up clotting up on him and he had to have emergency
bypass surgery in September. I do believe he has a sensitivity to the stents
and was not a good candidate, whether or not it was a direct allergic reaction
to the medication on the stents (Cypher), we are not sure. Good news is
that he is doing well now and still has the stents in him although they
are all blocked.
Maria S, January 06, 2006
This is a follow-up to the last posting, my cardi-rehab
class would not let me return until I made a call to my Cardiologist. I
will have tests done next Monday and Tuesday. I will follow-up with results.
I have had way too much pressure and pain like I've been kicked in the
chest, since I had the stents .
Lynn, Wisconsin , January 6, 2006
An update to my Jan 4 entry...I must correct the
statement that he was on Plavix 60 days before - This was a mistatement
as he was started on Plavix on Dec 10 and had the procedure done on Dec
28th. I think it is also worth noting that he complete the antibotic 3
days ago and the welts are gone, the three areas where he had the hives
are "almost" clear. Some redness lingers but no swelling and NO itching.
We are wondering if it was not the antibotic that created the reaction
in this case! But, I must add that Bob is not an outgoing person and is
quite reserved...he has bursted out in a song for the 5th time now which
is just extremely unusual. I think he is just basically feeling so good
that he has a totally different outlook! Today, as he got dressed, he marked
the fifth day on his calendar that he did not have high blood pressure
or a dull nagging headache. We are both smiling!
Evelyn T., Florida, January 6, 2006
I had two stents placed in my heart the end of
October 05', they are Cypher stents. Since this procedure I have been put
on 5 new medications. No suprize, the first few weeks were rough, and I
too had a rash. Luckily I feel somewhat better. My concern is any days
under 40 degrees, my chest hurts,or if I have a lot of stress.....
Lynn, Wisconsin, January 4, 2006
My significant other had two TAXUS stents placed
in an artery on Wed, Dec 28th. Night of the surgery, he had a 101.5 temp
and some hives on his back. His heart rate went from 82 to 52 and his blood
pressure dropped significantlly. The nurses who were caring for him did
a fantastic job keeping him comfortable and the fever controlled with tylenol.
Now, almost one week after surgery, he has hives on the palms of both hands.
It is extremely itchy and very bothersome! The hives appear to show up
in different areas of his body. First on the back, then on the groin area
and now on the hands. They have lasted in all three areas 2-3 days before
showing up in the new area! He started the treatment with Plavix approx
60 days before the stent procedure and had no reaction to the plavix. The
itching is controlled with an over the counter cream applied every few
hours! He is back to long walks with NO pressure or pain. Is hoping to
hit the driving range before this weekend! The itching is the only reaction
we have had to this miracle treatment of stents!
Evelyn T., Florida, January 4, 2006
Pat -- it is, of course, still possible that the
allergy is caused by one or more of the drugs, but assuming you had a drug-eluting
stent, aspirin and Plavix are important meds to stay on to prevent stent
thrombosis (most cardiologists prescribe Plavix for 3-12 months, depending
on the stent used and the patient's situation -- and aspirin for life.
Some cardiologists might try a different but related antiplatelet drug,
called ticlopidine, instead of Plavix (clopidogrel) if a drug allergy is
suspected, as others on this Forum have reported. Make sure the interventional
cardiologist who did the procedure knows about your reaction -- these post-procedure
effects need to be publicized. Also, two questions: whick stent were you
given: Taxus or Cypher? And when you say your other artery was "reamed
out" which device was used? A Rotoblator or an atherectomy device
or something else? Just a historical note: angioplasty was actually invented
in the 60's at OHSU in your town, Portland Oregon, by radiologist Charles
Dotter. He made a film in 1964 to describe the process (he worked in
the legs) and used a clip from a roto-rooter TV commercial. Later in the
film, a patient who had suffered from leg pain and had the angioplasty
kicks up his heels in the hospital corridor and says, "Looks like
my ream job is working!". Funny guy, this Dotter. Good luck -- let
us know how you fare.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 4, 2006
I went in a week b4 Thanksgiving for severe throat
pain. It was angina, and had a stent put in one artery, and they reemed
the other one out. I was so grateful and had a wonderful holiday. Broke
out in hives a week b4 Christmas,never had them b4, put on steroids and
Benadryl. Symptoms did not worsen, but did not get better. Out of steroids,
and have a painful and itchy rash on my neck, shoulders, scalp as well
as arms and inner thighs. i am now being sent to a dermatologist. Went
off Plavix and Lipitor, because my research showed they may be the culprits!
Until I read
the study out of Chicago!
Pat, Oregon, January 3, 2006
I am a 50 yr old woman with 3 drug eluting stents
(5 mos ago). I have been having pain in my legs, joints and muscles since
then along with swollen lymph nodes of groin/axilla. I am off cholesterol
meds since Oct. Have other patients had similiar reactions and could this
be some kind of allergic reaction to the stents? Thank you.
Dawn S., Connecticut., January 3, 2006
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