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Not Feeling Well After Stenting 
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Current Postings (192):
• Have had one MI and four angina attacks. Have 7 stents. Just had three more put in this January...2 wks ago. Still have back pains and fatigue. Want to sleep a lot. No pep or what I have doesn't last long. Still have pain in left arm. Still a heart problem or something else? I'm a 67 year old female and been bothered by this condition for nearly 11 years. Arteries keep clogging up and stents collapse. Why? Stress test just prior to recent stenting was normal as were heart enzymes. scary.
• I had a heart attack Dec 27th and had 3 stents placed in my RCA that was 100% blocked. I was in ICU for 3 days and out of the hospital the 4th day. Had a check up and told the Dr I still had shortness of breath and chest pain. He knew that the LAD was 70% blocked. I had the stent in that one done January 26th. Although the chest pain is gone. Is anyone else experiencing indigestion?
• I am a 48 year old male. I had a stent inserted 2 days ago in the right coronary artery for 95% blockage. I was released yesterday and felt very well. Over today (day 3) I am getting more and more tightness in the heart area of the chest. Is this normal will it pass with time?
• I was, I thought, in great shape 2 years ago. In fact, the day I went for my cath, I spent 45 minutes on elliptical but couldn't do the treadmill. Had 95% blockage in LAD, drug eluting stent thru wrist. Was horribly sick afterwards. Pains everywhere. I thought it was Crestor so stopped it. Two years later, on the treadmill again and it wouldn't register my pulse. Had been having chest pains so went in and immediately had cath and two more stents. I have never been so sick in my life. Indigestion even with meds, nauseated, chest pains daily, tightness in both carotids and pain in right shoulder and arm. All I want to do is sleep. Seeing another cardiologist. I want stents taken out and a bypass. He left one blockage the first time and one this time. Of course every time I get a pain it scares me. I think my body is trying to reject the stents. I am so laid back and have never been depressed but when you just want to sleep....it makes you depressed. Thank God for an understanding husband and family.
• My dad had one stent a little over a week ago. He feels a little uneasy and gets chest pains. Now he's getting symptoms of a flu. Is that bad?
• hi my dad just got his 3 stents put in 3 days ago (Jan. 13, 2012), the first day he was under morphine, so he was feeling fine, but as the morphine's effect wear out in the 2nd day, he started feeling chest pain. Is the chest pain normal? or is it still too early to tell?
• My husband had a heart attack December 9, 2011. Had 2 stents put in through his groin for 90% blockages. A third artery with 80% blockage was being treated for few weeks with meds, diet and therapy. However upon his stress test a few weeks later, the doctor decided not to prolong and arranged for a third stent on January 6th, 2011. They went in through the right wrist. Since the procedure, my husband has had sporadic continuous excruciating pain from his wrist all the way up to his shoulder. They did treat him with the wrist pressure band while in the hospital. This last weekend 01/14/12, had an ultrasound, chest x-rays and lab work, all of which were negative for clots, nerve damage or any other side effects. He still experiences such bad pain in his right arm that he cannot even sleep. Does anyone else have this problem? Otherwise, he is doing great and starts rehab all over again today, 1/16/12.
• I had a stent put in about a month ago, prior to the stent, i had a lot of tests and they all showed hardly nothing except a small arterial blockage. My blood pressure to all this was extremely high, at first the cardio doctor could not bring it down to where it was suppose to be, then after 3 months it was lowered. So the Cardio Doctor decided to put a stent in, well i am on a fat free diet, no red meat, no fatty foods, eating correctly ,and doing cardio rehab exercising, and still i have problems, fatigue,pain in the groin, headaches, BP is high on and off, it is nerve-racking. I have a Cardio Doc appointment on the 17th of this month so i will explain to the Doctor what is happening, hopefully i can get some straight answers. • Thank you for your response. I did see my cardiologist who temporarily DC'd the Lipitor pending results from another echo and an ANSAR test. I see him again next week. In the meantime, the fatigue seems to be getting worse (seems similar to what led me to my cardiologist in the first place). Hoping he can get to the bottom of this. I had about a month reprieve from this awful fatigue after my 2nd stent and now it's back again. My question is this: Can arteries become blocked this quickly? I have been following my diet strictly and tracking everything I eat, managing my BG and exercising until this week. I am really growing weary of feeling bad. • If you are suffering from angina pain and yet your doctor feels that none of the arteries that might benefit from a stent are simply too small to physically accommodate even the smallest ones manufactured. In this kind of case, it is often called microvasculature angina or cardiology syndrome X. You're going to have to firmly demand EECP treatment, they'll never likely to suggest it themselves, See study below at www.vasomedical.com.
• It would be helpful to anyone suffering from angina to realize that this angina pain may or may not be caused by blockages in the vascular system. In most cases, a stent placed in the proper place to restore normal blood blow will quickly relieve the angina pain as well. But there can be another cause of of this excruciating microvascular angina caused by the body's inability to deliver sufficient blood flow to and from the heart. This condition is referred to as Cardiac syndrome X and while stent placements in these cases may be impractical, the treatment of EECP, for these same patients remains highly successful. EECP is highly effective. See Study below
• 51 yr old female type I diabetic, total thyroidectomy (grave's disease), GERD, hypocalcemia had two stents end of Nov. 2011 - 87% blockage LAD & 70% RCA. Added Lipitor, Effient and Metoprolol to my already long list of meds. Felt much better right after procedure but now extreme fatigue again with aching in legs and general malaise (same symptoms pre-stent). I'm wondering if this is related to the heart meds I'm taking. I'm really praying this doesn't mean there's more heart problems.
• 49 yr old w/male, never had any health problems. Recent event required heart stent assessed 80% block. Feel on and off chest pains ever since and sometimes very sharp heart pain with heart beat that goes away as quickly as appears. First 2 months had purple splotches show up on various parts of body, leg, arm, etc.. Still feel daily pain in chest area. Any diagnostic test recommended? What about the High Brilliance CT scanner 246 view (what does it show), or a nuclear stress test? • Follow-up to my October post: My Dr. and I have decided that the tingling was from Simvastatin. Apparently it doesn't agree with me. A/O yesterday, I'm now on a different statin and we'll see how that goes. After being largely clear for 3 months of the normal chest pain/discomfort post-stenting, some of it has returned in the past 2 weeks. On and off elbow pain has returned which was a symptom that originally got the attention of my Dr. Some on and off chest pains, generally in the heart area, have returned. I also have some tightness in the carotid area on both sides which is fairly constant. NONE of this is exercise inducted. I can rev the engine without any issues. In fact I generally feel better during and after exercise. I saw a Dr. the other day and he did a phone consult with the cardiology group that placed the stent. Neither seem to be particularly worried. I have been told to schedule a stress test, but am not sure what that will show. Over the past day or two, many of these pains have subsided a bit. I think what happened has a mental side that is of course very worrisome. So, do others find that these types of symptoms come and go? • My dad had a Bypass Surgery 12 year back since 2010 he is experiencing chest pain, it was found his main artery was blocked. he had a angioplasty aorta on 26/12/2011. after a week when he tries to walk he again experienced chess pain. i have contact our doctor he said that the block was cleared . and this should not happen. please help • I, RA, 51 year old under went for angioplasty and implanted one stent in lad and two in lcx in a span of 9 months. I still have heaviness and chilling sensation in the chest. It was done on 31.03.2011 and 07.12.2011. Can any one help to resolve this. I shall remain greatful to him.
• Had DES placed in LAD (73% blockage) on 12/14/2011. Feel good most of the time but a short brisk walk brings on burning in throat (angina?). I do have some gastric reflux and pain from that, especially if I bend over after eating. How can one tell the difference between angina and acid reflux? I'll see cardiologist on 1/4/2012.
• I had two stents placed in November 2010. I am 49 years old and otherwise in pretty good health. I have had two MI's and take many medications. I have continued to have chest pain although it did improve after stenting. Lately, the last 3 months or so, my blood pressure has increased and is not controlled on medications, even increased meds. I have chest pain that is sort of an achy feeling in my chest that does radiate to my left arm. I also have a 100% blocked artery that was not able to be stented. Do you believe this could be from the stents or the blocked artery.
• I had a heart attack 2 months ago at the age of 28. 2 stents were put in. I'm feeling uneasy about playing sports again because that's how the heart attack was triggered by rupturing the plaque buildup. Since then I'm on Lipitor / Metoprolol / Effient / Aspirin / Lisinopril (I think). I feel minor effects of the medication and stents on random occasions such as shortness of breath / minor numbness in the left arm / angina. The doctor is aware of these issues and everything is OK. My real issue is depression and dealing with the stress of eating or working out vigorously again. Can I trust the medication and healthy eating to "protect" me from another attack if I played sports? • HAD 100% LAD blockage, massive heart attack, 3 stents put in, on Plavix, Lopressor, Lipitor and aspirin. I feel light headed and dizzy, huge appetite, want to sleep a lot but don't. currently taking only 12 mg of Lopressor due to low BP. I'm now having slight stabbing pain in heart not really bothering me but has me concerned, I was stented 3 weeks ago I'm 42 years old. Also are there less expensive drugs other then Plavix i have no drug coverage. Is the Plavix and aspirin making me dizzy ?
• my dad has under gone angioplasty his age is 63, today suddenly shown same symptom as show earlier when he had heart attack, but doctor till now not confirmed any thing like that.. is this gastritis or there is some thing wrong...he has history of gastric pain and also diabetic with high blood pressure.
• Hi my mother is 87yrs and was always very fit and active for her age, Last year she started to feel unwell and out of breath, 10 weeks ago so had a heart attack and since then has had 2 stents put in. she has been home now nearly 3 weeks and is ill all the time. She feels sickly, tired, her ears buzz,her heart racers, no energy and around her lips go cold, is there anyone else on here that age had stents and have you had any problems. I also think she is depressed. • Had Qui-triple bypass for 4 blockages in 2008-recovered well. Artery used was from left arm and he became blocked twice more causing a heart attack in 5-30-11 & 11-22-11. One stent in 5-11 and three stents in 11-11. Now three weeks have passed and I am so weak require constant sleep. Some shortness of breath. Worried, every ache and pain is causing depression. I have no life, don't care in any activity. Wondering if meds are causing many of side effects such as joint pain, shortness of breath, depression, anxiety. Have trouble controlling high B/P & Cholesterol (unable to take statin drugs!) Seems all I do is whine and complain to love ones out of fear - have confidence in physicians, yet they are human also. I just think they expect me to return to a normal life and I do not see a light at the end of the tunnel. A nurse told me it could take 2-4 months for my body to fully recover from the procedure my body endured. Who is right?? I am watching my sugar, hope to stay off insulin. My family genes are enough to scare you into bad health as they none had long lives. I have seen so much death in my family from cardio issues. I am a 54 yr. old female and my doctors just scratch their heads • Ref to maxi, BNH, UK problem posted on August 2011. I also face the similar problem hearing heart beat and whistling in ear. I wish to know from maxi does his cardiologist suggested any remedy and how he feel now.
• on 10/18/11 my husband had a heart attack and had 2 stents, by 10/20/11 the two stents failed. They did another angio and doped him up and let him ride out the M/I. On 11/6 he was readmitted for pneumonia. On 11/9 was readmitted for congestive heart failure. On 11/19 was admitted for another heart attack which was said the angio was done 3 inches too high and he developed internal bleeding which was fixed by another stent in the abdomen. In 6 weeks time he had 6 angiograms, pulled off all blood pressure meds (pressure is now too low and spikes often) taken off Effient and only takes Renexa and Zocor no aspirin allergic. They told him it will take time for the blood in his belly to dissipate. They also told him he has lost 10 to 20 % of the hearts pumping function and the lower portion of the heart is dead. Today he is worried because the area that was stented in the belly is hurting him and he gasps for breath at times when pain hits hard. Could this be some of the phantom pain people talk of? No one is calling him back and he doesn't know if this is normal. He is 38 and after the last 6 weeks does not want to go back to the ER.
• My son age 44 had two stents place Dec. 3. He was sent home after 30 hours. Now he has swelling in groin and testicles. Doctor doesn't seem worried. Told to lay on back and come back next week. Is this normal or can any other treatment help?
• My husband had a stent implanted in the aorta the due to an abdomen aneurysm. Right after the surgery and the anesthesia wore out, he felt a horrible pain in the lower back, and ever since 2009 every day and night, until this very day (December 2011) the pain in his back has never left. The stent was put through his groins. He saw a back surgeon, and there is nothing wrong with his back. And up to the day of surgery he had never had a back pain. What do you suppose is the reason for that awful suffering?
• Hello I had drug eluding [eluting] stent placed in LAD {80% blockage} in September 2011. Experienced burning in chest the first week, panicked and had second cath which showed no blockage. Continued chest burning for two weeks, doc did not know and referred me to GI doc. Did not go and finally sensation left. But now after intense walking about 40 minutes, I am experiencing coolness in chest. I don't want to give up exercise because overall it makes me feel better. Any answers as to the coolness in chest after exercise would be appreciated.
• I received two stents on November 5, 2011 after a heart attack. I was being made sick by metoprolol and Lipitor. I bloated like I was carrying a basketball in my stomach. Doctor took me off of the two meds mentioned above and the bloating has ceased. Yet, I remain on Effient and aspirin which makes my stomach very sick and I am in a constant state of dizziness. Doctor tells me I cannot stop the Effient or aspirin. I am also getting very pale at times. Has anyone experienced this? Also my left carotid is blocked, I will know more about that on the 15th of December.
• 3 wks ago had Boston Scientific Promus stent placed in LAD. After 1 week, noticed angina worse than before. Cardiologist ordered nuclear stress test I failed it and was ushered into the cath lab directly. During angiogram, Cardiologist confirmed correct stent placement, but noted strong spasm of LAD causing flow reduction above and below stent. Trigger of spasms unknown. Nitroglycerin during angioplasty relaxed arteries. After angio, Added diltaizem, amlodipine to maintain relax, and prednisone in case of allergic issue. 3 days later, still have slight angina occasionally. Definitely reduced from before. Has anyone experienced post stenting arterial spasms? • since my stents being put in heart i am having awful headaches. Like a brain freeze. Worse when i lay down. Went to ER. did a spinal tap and MRI and was normal. This has been going on since surgery. Never have so much as had a sinus headache. • I am a 56 year old male, that has had high blood pressure for about 15 years. On Oct. 7th had a Cardiac Catheterization because of chest pains. They found a 70% blockage in the LAD. Told me to go home and take a blood thinner. Then on November 7th, had a large stent put in. Went home next day and still had chest pain. Blood thinners did make my body feel different. Last weekend still having chest pains and went in for another Cardiac Catheterization and they found everything was working fine. Chest pains still occurring. I Do not feel any different then I did before the stent. However was told if no stent was not put in, I could have had a heart attack within a year. To early to tell the difference. But do not expect to be pain free. Have lost 21-lbs in 3 months. It is all about your diet. • After my heart attack in July 2010, I had three stents inserted in my Circumflex Artery. Since then I have suffered continued shortness of breath whilst doing the simplest of tasks and can't use my treadmill for longer than a few minutes. My specialists have given me all the heart and lung tests you could imagine but still no improvement. I recently had a pneumonia immunisation and was also put on Panadol Osteo for some joint pain but now the problem is even worse. I even get very short of breath when I'm having a long conversation. I am wondering if the combination of meds I am taking has caused this problem. My Cardiologist is at a loss to know why this is happening. Have also gained 10 kilo's since my attack (gave up smoking but deliberately didn't change eating habits for fear of weight gain) and as I'm quite small in stature I feel/look absolutely obese now, which can't be healthy. My meds are now only 100mg Aspirin, 75mg Clopidogrel, 40mg Lipitor and 25mg Spiractin. Have reduced HRT "Livial" to one tablet every 2nd day. Stress level now gets high and patience is ZERO! Can anyone please help me solve the riddle as to why this is so? • Hi. Had a heart attack 6 weeks ago, a stent was put in had another stent put in 2 weeks ago but the vascular seal busted had trambon injections inserted into my groin twice to stop the bleeding that was 10 days ago just started to walk again but feeling tightness in chest area and then pain in my head, my heart increases to 120 just walking. I'm 44 male fitness instructor never smoke/drink with a resting heart rate of 40/50bpm please can you tell me if this is normal? My leg also gets sore and turns different colour walking???? • I had 3 eluting stents placed in my 99% blocked LAD on 11-3-11. My doctor said no heart attack, lucky at that ! After about a week, began to feel slight dizziness and shortness of breath, with exertion or without. I`m hoping it drug related and would like to know if these symptoms will improve. i`m scheduled for another appointment and 2 more stents in an 80% and a 60% blockage on Dec, 8. I`m going to call about the shortness of breath tomorrow as I felt better before the stents, an a Backpacker and Hiker, 58 years old. Any feedback would be welcome. • This past September 2010, I had two stents put in because I had blockage in my right artery. I was put on Plavix and aspirin. After a few days of being on Plavix, I had all of the symptoms of Plavix with blood in my stools, excessive blood, and only wanted to sit around and I was a very active person and could hardly ever keep me sitting down. I have lost a lot of strength that I use to have. I walked two miles a day and now do not even care. Like ad38 in Kansas, I have had depression, flutters in my heart and am not as happy as I use to be before this. Does anyone have any suggestions. I see a lot of questions, but hardly any answers to people's questions and answers, if possible, would be great to us that need them. Any idea why I would have heart flutters and lack of energy? • I had a stent put in my neck and been having problem every since keeping having some type of muscle stress in my neck feel like something is choking me my muscle in my neck on the right side tightens up. please help
• I had 3 coronary stents inserted last Tuesday. Am ecstatic as am full of energy. Do things which I would have delayed previously. Physically significantly improvements. Main symptom post operative is the change in my psyche and the ability to reason. Is there any explanation for that? I feel like I have been reborn. Any insight into this improvement would be appreciated. • I am 46, female, was very healthy, thin, no medical issues, don't smoke or drink, no family history. Had one DES stent put in LAD in July, 2011. Had chest pain and shortness of breath for 6 weeks post the procedure. I have been having dizzy spells with weakness for one month, some days better than others. I had a stress test two weeks ago, which was negative, still can't find any causes so far. My medications are: Plavix, aspirin and Lipitor. Any thoughts?
• Follow-up to my October 14 post. With respect to my tingling, the doctor had prescribed aspirin, Plavix, and Simvastatin. As it would work out, my 30 day supply of Simvastatin ran out on my 1 month anniversary. I spaced out picking up the next months supply and due to an issue of logistics was without this medication for 5 days. Towards the end of the period, the tingling was almost gone. The cardiologist's office told me the issue didn't sound like something that was related to their treatment. My Dr. told me tingling wasn't in the top 30 or so side effects of Simvastatin. However he knows I'm a data kind of guy and suggested I go back on the drug to see what would happen. He did say it's not a drug you want to generally go on and off of. I went back on and the tingling started again in a few days. When I went off of the drug, it took a few days, but the tingling cleared. I did that again with the same results. Needless to say, I'm not taking Simvastatin. I will follow up to see if there is an alternate drug that might be better suited to me. In my instance, cholesterol was not an issue. The statin was prescribed because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
• had echo test and chemical stress test. Dr. wants to do catheterization to look at dark spots on pointed part of heart.78 years old, no symptoms except shortness of breath when lying down, and coughing from bronchitis, and high cholesterol. Take no meds except for asthma. This procedure seems too invasive for my symptoms. Dr. says stress test could be wrong but should not be ignored. I work part-time, exercise daily, slightly over-weight, generally feel good. Is second opinion in order? No history of heart-disease in family, non-smoker (did smoke 35 years ago) Could meds and diet take care of this before doing catheterization? Dr. says don't wait til I quit coughing to have this test. I don't want to do the test. Please advise. spots on pointed part of heart. Wants to do catheterization
• I've not seen this posted- My (87yo) father has (2) badly fractured/Broken stents - upper thigh and above his knee on the same leg- He's 100% blocked - Can these stents be removed or repaired ??? His toes are now starting to turn dark deep purple -- we are going to a specialist that said it will be difficult but might be able to help -- otherwise he will go for a bypass or graft- ; if they can't repair- will a bypass or graft work for renewed blood and oxygen to his feet?? thanks • I've had 5 stents over the past 6 years. The first two left me feeling like I had all the energy in the world. Recently I lost my job and with it my health insurance. I ran out of meds after one month, and went without most of my meds for three months. I started a new job only to run up against the old familiar chest pains. Another stent was added. This time, an all metal non drug eluting stent. After the stent, I expected to have the same sort of experience as previously. This time, I've had major mood swings, depression, elation, back and forth. Chest pains with the slightest exertion accompany my day. My only real question at this point is, will this go away? I'm on all my meds now and other than the angina, don't feel like there's anything wrong. I can see no reason for any of this, nothing's really different except I'm on Effient instead of Plavix.
• I had two stents and ever since have been drained of all energy. All I want is sleep and more sleep. • Had 3 stents put in MLAD on Monday. Generally feeling well but find myself constantly "taking inventory" of how I'm feeling, all twinges and aches are a matter of concern . . . Hard to know what is real (post-procedure discomfort - heart hurts) and what is fear. Any thoughts? • May 11 had 1 Abbott stent LAD 85% blockage NO symptoms discovered as i had a stress test after 3 years. Felt great .back in gym 5 days later and still feel the same as before except for occasional burning type sensation around the bottom of heart and sometimes top going into armpit and arm. Have taken anti acid prescribed by Doc but has made no difference. Blood tests normal. Should i get another stress test when i see Doc in Nov. or is this just something i need to live with as Doc says I am OK, How often do they go back in to see if everything is OK if this burning sensation continues. • Dear All -- My dad had his angioplasty 10 days back and they put a stent to LAD. The docs say the blockage was above 90%...after almost 8 days, he has developed mild breathlessness especially if he sits or moves... he's been put on plagetine, ecosprin, lipicure, tolol xr, ramipress, torsinex and trika...he's complaining of immense weakness as well...pls suggest.. • i had stent surgery a week ago,and now I having burning in the chest should i be worried? • Hi. My dad (age 60) has had Angioplasty done three days ago (14/10/2011). It was his first ever major surgery and has never had any major health issues prior to this. Since this surgery his BP has been continuously low (around 85/65) and he feels weak. I know it has only been three days but is it normal ? Is there something we should be concerned about ? many thanks in anticipation
• Thanks for your site, it has answered several questions for me. I am glad to hear other experiences and don't feel so alone. Now 5 weeks post stenting with drug coated stent in 90% blocked LAD and finally feeling as good as before the stent. I can now get my shoes on, something I hadn't been able to do for 4 months due to foot and ankle swelling. I hope the medical field begins to listen to old women with history of chest pain with negative EKGs and stress tests!!! After being treated for ??angina?? for years, I felt like a whining old woman. We girls might be tougher about pain than you think!!! Luckily the thallium test revealed a possible treatable problem for me. There is still a 60% block in the right and several insignificant blocks elsewhere but I am better. Whoopee!!
• My sister had massive heart attack 4 weeks ago & had stent inserted.
She is suffering shortness of breath, tiredness, but is especially worried
about a severe feeling of weakness on her left side followed by a sensation
of an electric shock moving down her left side & when this happens she
cannot control her left leg or left arm. Do you have any idea what this
could be please? She is terrified every time it happens. Thanks in anticipation
of your reply. Sylvia.
• I had a DES implanted 5 weeks ago for a 99%
LAD. I've been told I should buy a lottery ticket. Normal day to day
stuff prior didn't lead me to believe I had any problem. It was only
when I was out running/biking and pushed the HR above 140. I had no normal
risk factors other than a family history on one side. Even with the 99%
blockage, the Dr. said I had 65% efficiency. Other than the mental aspects
of "Why me?" and being more hypersensitive to anything, I had not issues
until hours after my 1 month appt. Everything had looked good. Since
then, I've had tingling (pins and needles) in my left hand. It later
included my right hand to a lesser degree and on occasion is felt in
my feet and even crotch. I've done the usual searches and see this pop
up occasionally - even in this forum. No one seems to have a resolution.
I do have an appt. with my primary care physician, but they didn't seem
too worried. The cardiologist's office says it doesn't sound stent related.
Any thoughts?
• Had three stents implanted in 99. That
felt so good I decided to get a couple more in 2000. Again in 03,
04, 06 and 07. I'm now up
to 13
stents total. While I recovered fairly well the first couple times,
each successive stent implant has left me feeling a little worse that
the
last time. I continue to have angina and with very little exertion,
I get completely
winded. My last cath showed the stents were all wide open. I can no
longer stand for more than an hour or two. My legs always seem weak,
as well
as the rest of me, but because my job requires me to stand all day
(which I can no longer do), my legs are the most notable. I have diabetes
with
some neuropathy and two bulging discs in my spine, but neither appear
to
be the cause. We've tried removing and changing meds, but none of that
has worked. Have had numerous tests done by my family doctor and a
well respected
neurologist, but it's all come out negative.
• Thank you for this forum. It has answered
or justified many of the questions and concerns I have had since my
stent placement 1 month ago. My Cardiologist
seem to disregard my concerns and questions. He has offered no program or direction
for rehab so I am researching on my own (he has OK'd a return to normal activity).
Your information has given my a sense of what is normal and what may not be.
Thank you again.
• You asked about post-op stenting. I had
4 DES placed in 2004. Two in LAD and two in RCA. This for on and off
severe angina attacks.
Interventionalist said I will not have any more pain.He was dead wrong!
Severe out of the blue, non exercise induced attacks, continued. He
dismissed me. The Big Jerk!I had Microvascular (small vessel disease)
that you cannot
see via regular angiogram. These vessels spasm for various reasons
and cannot be stented. (more in women than men) Nitro does take the pain
away. I switched doctors after seeing a great article on this written
by Dr. Noel Bairey-Mertz at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles. So now I carry
around 3 DES Cyphers and One other (forgot the name) that were not
needed.
Not all doctors put their pants on the same way. Rose...Good Luck To
Everyone.
• Male 77, had a 3-shunt by-pass in 2004,
was good on Plavix + aspirin, norvasc, till recently. On September
7, 2011 had a cath, coronary
blockages revealed,
got 3 drug-eluded stents, was OK few several days. Gradually, chest pain accompanied
with bp ups and downs came. Complained to my Doc, suspected artery spasms.
He replaced norvasc with ranexa 500 mg twice a day, helped a little,
still no improvement.
By October beginning, experienced very bad days. During last 2 days severe
(like heart-attack) symptoms, bp up to above 200/100, exhausted, weakened,
feel miserable.
Will see my Doc the day after tomorrow, seems need hospital examination. Hope
for good but do not know what to expect.Will keep posting, any immediate advise,
comments appreciated.
• I had angioplasty with two stent on August
31,2011. I was ok for about two weeks then I started to feel some mild
burning sensation
in my chest then it radiates to my back and my left arm, then it stops
for about 15 -30 min the it starts again. I went to ER and they admitted
me and run all tests CG, Blood works, Chest x-ray, echo-cardiogram
and stress test with radioactive isotope all test came negative. As a
matter
of fact during my stress test I reached 15 min with 93%. The cardiologist
concluded that it has nothing to do with my heart, they think I may
be imagining the pain due to fear of happening again. I was discharged
from
the hospital about 7 days ago and I still have the same symptoms. Has
anyone else experienced the same symptoms, if so can shade some light
if it will ever stop, or if there is any treatment for this. Thank
you in advance. • Well i am 45 year old male and i had an
heart attack in january 2011.. I had a stent placed then, plus other
one in February 2011 due
to a stenosis
in other coronary.. I am in plavix, cardio aspirin, vastarel and crestor and
honestly i feel quite well ...i need just to lose some overweight i have..
In response to those who feel chest pain ,according to my experience
they must be
take an high doses of the medicine for example Vastarel ,since that can be
caused by small coronary stenosis that can give such discomfort but not
risk of infarct!!!
I had asked that to my cardiologist and in result increasing the dose of the
anti angina pectoris medicine i feel ok.. I hope that can help,,,!!! Concerning
the bad feeling of losing trust in bur self and loneliness well i consult to
don't think about ,or at least try to don't ...put in this way: nobody know
when things good or bad can happen just live ur life as best you can..
I was depressed
for
few months but now i realize that the best way its to think as i wrote. • 71 year old male. Had a DES stent implant
in May. Went for a an 11 mile and strenuous hike in August, one which
I had done 3 years
ago without any major issues. This time only got 1/2 way when I ran
low on energy. Rested for a bit, and then went on to mile 8, but only
VERY
SLOWLY and pausing before each uphill portion. Arrived at campsite
weak, leg cramps, totally spent. Slept well, but next day lacked a lot
of energy.
Completed the last 3 miles but again, only very slowly, particularly
on uphill portions. Is it the stent? Is it my age? Haven't seen my
docs yet so am wondering if anyone here can clue me in: Will I ever be
back
to pre-op condition? Thanks CM • This is a reply to the person hearing a whistling
or ringing in his ears.
This could be caused by a high dose of aspirin. Please ask your doctor about
this, because it sounds like you are getting too much blood thinner. • i also live with stent but i not feel
well...if u hv any....please.... • I had a stent fitted in July and I am now still having pain in the heart
area which may be indigestion related-but why is it always on the left side of
my chest and not the right? My doctor's attitude is "we can we give you something
for the indigestion" but
he doesn't seem to want to investigate the cause! • I am a 69 y/o female, had chest pain on
a Friday, waited to see the dr until Mon, my routine appt. Had drug
coated stent placed
for 90% block LAD, (still have 60% block R main ) on Tues. Released from
hosp on Wed. To see family dr next Thurs. On plavix, Aspirin, cozaar,
metoprolol, imdur,lasix, insulin as well as meds for bronchitis. (
Dr
stopped statin due to elevated CPK. Have home health care, nurse found
atrial fib 2nd day home, nurses at hosp reported normal sinus rhythm
in hospital. No one seems concerned. Have shortness of breath, wheezing,
weakness to the point of exhaustion most of the time and cough. Is
this normal? • Hi. In Dec 09 I had 3 bare metal stents
put in. Two in the left artery and one in the right. For the last several
weeks I have been
getting serious
pain between my shoulder blades, now my neck has hurt, my left arm feels like
thousands of needles going thru it and for the last few days I been very fatigued
and having
some
shortness of breath. Could my stents be failing? • I had 2 stents put in 90% and 70%blockages
july 29th/2011.The first 2 weeks I had walked 2 blocks twice a day,
then started to ride my bike approximately 2 k's and walked 1k.Now I
am riding
my bike 4k's and walking 1-2 k's after 4 week's. I am on aspirin 81,plavix,Metoprolol,Avapro,and
Crestor have developed burning in my left arm, and fluttering on the
left side of my chest,and experience some pain when I have to cough
in my back along the left side by my shoulder blade. Is this normal after
the 4'th week of recovery. I ride a motorcycle for enjoyment roughly
2-3 times a week. Could the vibration cause the burning in my arm?
Or
does the medication need to be changed. Otherwise getting stronger
daily and have changed my eating habit's a lot I am exercising daily
and going
back to work after Oct. 1/2011 as a custodian of 27 years. • I had an AMI in Aug 2010. two stents were
put in the Circumflex in Feb 2011. I have been on Metolor, Plavix,
Lasix, Ecosprin, Pan 40,
Cardace, since.
For the past two months I get a lot of acidity when I walk including discomfort
in the chest. I get it when I bend down too. But never otherwise. I have been
given Ganatone, Bifilac, Udimarin which has helped slightly. Is it a case of
Restenosis? I am due for an Angiogram next month after 8 months of Angioplasty.
Please Advice. • I am a 52 yr old diabetic male. Three weeks ago I had 2 stents
inserted on the right side of my heart. 80% blockage. Doctor put me on
Plavix for rest of life and 325 mg of Aspirin. Begin to have horrible
heartburn, I started to split the Aspirin to morning and evening, heart
burn subsided. Had more energy then I knew what to do with but then I
started to over-exercise and get my heart rate back to what it was (when
I was 40) now I am very tired, don't sleep well. You have to take things
slower... sites like loseit.com and runkeeper.com can
help with diet & exercise. Depression is quite common as I have experienced when
you realize that everything can happen again. But, can any of us really guarantee
we will be here tomorrow? Live each day the best you can and when you are so
tired and don't feel well, give thanks to God for allowing your family to have
the extra time with you. Eliminating the four C's will help a lot: Citrus, Caffeine,
Chile (Spicy Food) and Carbonated Beverages..... • Was stented one week ago, angina is gone,
but I feel some pain nights in my heart. What can I do? • Had two stents placed on 99% blockage
just last Friday. Am a 62 year old male, non-smoker, non-drinker. Suffered
heart attack prior
to stenting. Still have burning pain in upper chest, gastric distress
frequently and overall malaise. Today became emotional/angry and felt
like had another heart attack. How long till feel better? Other clogged
arteries ranged from 3 at 70% and one at 79%. Numbness in left side
of face after PCI. What's going on with me?
• I am 59 year old female who has not had
a heart attack but through stress test found 70% blockage in LAD. Everything
pretty much ok except
I had thyroid
problems and now gallstones. Did post stress test showed abnormal stuff went
back in yesterday an other stent plavix working so play egged increased aggressively.
So now I have problems that weren't there with initial stent. Have to go back
in two or three weeks for another stent in opening of right artery which is
closing because of plavix situation. Tried walking this morning and felt
lousy afterward
flushed and sweat. Felt like a new person after first stent. Now feel like
this is never going to be solved and will new meds effient actually work?
Doctor seems
to think what he did is perfect and blood flow is better than normal and fixing
the other will solve problems. I guess I just expected to feel as good after
this was like after the first. Do not like feeling like I am a walking time
bomb. Don't know how much to push exercising. Don't know much about anything
is it
heart pain gallbladder or related to thyroid that doctors let get to Hugh and
we are still
in the process of lowering. Any advice. Hard for family too.
• Hi. my father had done angioplasty and
inserted the stent 10days before.He had done bypass surgery 15 years
back. After successfully
completed the angioplasty after 3 hours my fathers blood pressure and
pulse rate
lowered and heavy chest pain was there for 10 minutes.The doctor consulted
him immediately and done angiogram again and told nothing to worry
some complications will happen in rare cases.that is why like this .Now
he
is OK. Please tell me why suddenly the BP and Pulse rate lowered after
doing the angioplasty. Please give me a reply. please reply in my mail
id. Thanks • My dad had an angioplasty with one stent
implanted. This was 3 days ago. He is home. But he feels tired and
exhausted. It is real
taxing
on him to take a trip to the bathroom (in his bedroom) and back to
bed. Is
this normal?
• Had a drug eluting stent
put in 3/30/11, Promus, after 80% blockage of L LAD. Put on Effient/ASA
and 3 different
kinds of statins, which
made the pain in my muscles so bad that I had to stop all statins,
cant take sloniacin or red yeast rice. Am trying to control cholesterol
by
diet. I also take Vasotec 20 mm bid, Lasix 40mg, Potassium 10 mg, and
Prozac 40 mg. I am retired physician. Now I can hardly walk even two
yards without feeling like passing out. Cardiologist not concerned.
This is a living hell to me. Have no depression, just EXTREME fatigue.
EKG's
are fine CT of chest fine, white count a little elevated. Should I
find another cardiologist for second opinion. This is not life at all,
it
is hell. Hard to walk, hard to lift arms, can't make meals, can't vacuum.
Feel like all I can do is stay in bed because of fatigue. Taking Plavix
75mg and 81 mg ASA at present, as Effient made me bleed for a long
time. Generic Plavix from
India through Canadian pharmacy. What next? • Dear RCA Stenter - I'm a 47 yr old female,
i had an a stroke in May due to an 82% blockage in my right carotid artery.
After stenting - still experienced (as many as 8 times a day)symptoms,
similar to the TIA's but not as severe, but just as scary, I felt as
if I was having another stroke, but then they would subside after a
couple
of minutes, my doctor put me on Keppra, an anti seizure med, scary stuff,
but it worked, no more dizziness etc, only the numb left hand which was
a residual effect of the stroke. This is scary stuff, and its hard to
explain to people that haven't experienced it. All the Best to you! • Curious
in Canada -- It would seem that many of the problems you are experiencing
around breathing difficulties are
not stent-related, but have to do with your diagnosis of COPD, no doubt
caused by smoking. Stopping smoking is, of course, the right thing
to do for both lung-related issues as well as heart disease. But unfortunately,
as we're sure you know, the progression of COPD can be curtailed by
stopping
smoking,
but
only
minimally
reversed
in some
cases. Your
diagnosis of COPD, asthma, etc. was made post-stenting, but you most
certainly
had these diseases for a while. They just didn't manifest so strongly.
However, the good news is that you've taken action and are getting
medical care. Work with your docs to improve your clinical picture.
Follow their
directions on meds, exercise, lifestyle changes, etc. but certainly
report any new or increased symptoms to them. • 61 years old and Cardiac stent couple
years ago as a result of heart attack. Prior to was a non drinker,
smoker of moderate to good health with only periodic
Dr visits due to bronchitis. Quit smoking immediately and not smoked since cardiac
episode. Since then, have been sick continually. Now diagnosed with COPD, Asthma,
and on continual meds for such. Never was issue before. On 2 inhalers that do
not seem to help much. Also periodic low hemoglobin. Get short of breath after
marginal exercise and best relief obtained by squatting down. Taking Lipitor,
Micardis plus and low dose aspirin. Suffer easy bruising and bleeding. Back to
cardiologist next week. Basically, sick and tired of being sick after having
cardiac stent. Please again note that prior to stent, was only very
occasionally ill
with bronchitis.Dr visit today and now being referred to Hematologist and cardiologist
appointment next week. • I had 2 stents placed in Feb - now am
suffering giddiness, dull aches and stabbing pains across my chest.
Recent ECG shows every thing is ok - but my bp is up and down. I
do take beta blockers and normal medication after heart attack. just
want
to feel fit again. Any ideas what is causing me to feel so unwell?Jean • I
posted yesterday with regard to my feelings after a drug eluting stent,
but no reply as yet.
I just want to add
that is it normal to hear my heartbeat
ALL day when it is quiet or I am watching the television? Also I have a constant
whistling in my ears and it is so depressing to listen to this all the time.
Neither of these things happened pre-stent and medication. Any ideas, please? • I HAD A STENT INSERTED TWO WEEKS AGO
- HAVEN'T FELT GREAT SINCE. - DOCTOR
CAN'T "FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH CARDIOGRAM". RECENTLY UPON EXERTION (SLOW WALKING
(DURING SHOPPING, ETC. I NOTICED A DISCOMFORT (PAIN) IN CENTER FRONT OF MY
CHEST AS WELL AS IN CENTER OF MY BACK (DIRECTLY BEHIND). THIS HASA OCCURRRED
MORE THAN
TWO TIMES. WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW? • I had a stent put in my left main (widow
maker) 3 days ago. I don't have CAD, but it was caused by scar tissue
that formed when I had my aortic valve
replaced due to a congenital condition. (I had an 11 hour valve replacement
surgery with many complications.) I was at 90+% blocked and have been
told I am lucky
to be alive. The doctors made it sound like I'd feel relief almost immediately.
I was very active up until a week ago. How long have people found it takes
to feel better? Have energy? I know it's only a few days out, but I
feel totally
exhausted! I don't know if it's the meds, everything I've been through, or
just the adjustment. • My husband had a 90 percent blockage
and had a stent put in 9 days ago. He is having some mild discomfort
in his chest and has indigestion all the time. He is taking 40 mg.
Prevacid everyday. Is this normal? Thanks Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, August 6, 2011 • I'm a 50 yr smoker trying to quit and
have numerous leg stents due to PAD. I now have a stent I in my heart
but problem is I'm allergic to contrast
dye so they pumped me up with prednisone (20 mgs for 3 days. I'm home and feeling
better but that night at the hospital and since i've had severe stomach cramps
that are ongoing. They prescribed Prilosec which is not helping. What could
be causing this pain? I thought maybe gas but it's 3 days now and at
a lost for
cause of cramping. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, August 5, 2011 • Mom had major heart attack 5/27/11.
She was on metoprolol, simvastatin, lisinopril, aspirin, effient(plavix).
Has had mild chest pain nausea and fatigue. She also has up and down
days, we have been to dr a few times when something doesn't feel
right. They have said indigestion, anxiety, basically they say it's
side
effects from the Simvastatin so they lowered the mg and still feeling
bad they
took her off of it completely! Now were sitting in the er because
yesterday she was anxious, nauseous, vomiting, and a funny little headache,
her
pcp gave her Anti nausea meds and she slept, felt fine today until
about 4pm she woke up with heart palpations, minor chest pain (similar
but less than heart attack pains) nausea, cold sweats and higher
blood pressure (her normal 117-121) of. 138/93. She breaks down and
cries
because she is sick and tired of being sick and tired It seems like
angina to me but they are the dr blowing off her symptoms!!! Its
hard to see her feeling so bad and they won't fix her ! Can anyone
offer
insight
PLEASE !!!! Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, August 4, 2011 • I am a 48 year old female with NO prior
treatment for cholesterol or heart disease. In April 2011, I passed
all my pre-op testing for a hysterecomy but
I did not feel right, I had pressure in both shoulders and shortness of breath.
On April 28, I had a stress test, on April 29, 2011 I received my first bare
metal stent in my LAD (95 percent blocked). I was put on Effient for two weeks
and then switched to Plavix. In June, I began Cardiac Rehab and felt tired
but okay. In mid July, I experienced some slight shortness of breath,
slight left
arm pain, but had normal EKG, normal BP. On July 19, 2011 I received my second
stent (medicated). The first stent closed after ten short weeks. I have been
given the blood test that confirmed Plavix does NOT work for me. I have been
switched back to Effient but I do NOT feel right. My arm pain has not gone
away. I have no energy. My concerns are that my LAD was so blocked
twice and I had
very slight symptoms twice. Just had a Cardiolite Stress test that was fine
but I still do not feel well. Is there a test to see if Effient is
working? Will
I ever feel normal again? Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, August 3, 2011 • Had angioplasty / stent June 3. RT Femoral
Artery closure was achieved with a Perclose device. Artery now blocked
90%, have claudication and will need surgery to repair. I have read
many forum statements and have not read anything like my problem. Is
this
common?? I was told this happens 1 in 100 angioplasty procedures.
Does not seem
to be so by reading forum. • Lonely -- depression is a known reaction
in patients with coronary artery disease, although your stent was placed
three years ago, so the fact that this is coming on now would point to
other possible causes. From what you describe, having a chronic illness
without enjoying the support of people close to you can be very difficult.
We'd suggest finding a heart disease support group (your cardiologist or
local hospital may be able to hook you up) and there you will find others
in similar situations -- and this could make a big difference. Anyone out
there have any some specific suggestions for "Lonely in Louisiana"?? • I had stent in April 2008. On plavix,
Metoprolol, Antara, Simvastatin, Aspirin , Aciphlex . Doing exercise
. Feeing good physically . Mentally very
depressed , sad , mood goes up down. No social or family support, no spouse support
( emotionally ), is this feeling from stent? Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, July 24, 2011 • I had a blockage in the widow-maker with
stent placement and angio in April. New meds: lopressor 25, effient
10, lipitor 40 added to Norvasc 5. About three weeks ago I had a terrible
vertigo attack and I still have major lightheadedness. Went to ENT
who tested me
and feels it is an inner ear, but it is not going away. Could the meds
be related? I did cut the lopressor from 25 to 12.5. I can't drive
and
am finding it difficult to get to work without a ride. I went through
a major procedure and wish I could feel better. Docs seem so sure
that it
isn't related to adjusting meds...I'm just not sure. Cardiologist hasn't
even seen me on this. What do you think? The lightheadedness and dizziness
doesn't seem to want to
leave. • Not feeling well
in India -- glad to hear that you are actually feeling fine post-stent (i.e.
you ARE feeling well!)
-- your concerns about stopping aspirin should be directed to your
cardiologist (make sure to discuss this with your cardiologist, not just
with your general practitioner. The reason to stay on BOTH Plavix and
aspirin
(called Dual
AntiPlatelet Therapy, or DAPT) is to reduce the chance of stent thrombosis,
where blood clots inside the stent causing an acute blockage -- it's
a relatively rare event (especially with the newer and better stents
like the Medtronic Resolute) but it's a serious event and to play it
safe, most
doctors (and the FDA here in the USA) recommend one year of BOTH Plavix
and aspirin. Also look at our Forum Topic on Plavix
and Aspirin. • Hi... had angioplasty
7 months ago. ENDEAVOR RESOLUTE stent placed.. I'm feeling fine...able
to walk 5 km daily
without any problem.... was
on plavix and aspirin for first 6 months. Now Doc asked to stop aspirin
and continue only on plavix. Is it OK to be only on plavix and stop aspirin
after 6 months to angioplasty.
Stent Endeavor resolute. • My
sister has got second heart attack, 3 stents were placed. BP is coming very
low and varying. Doctor says her
heart is working with 30% efficiency. May i know the implications of
it. Is this alarming? Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, July 12, 2011 • 51 yr old male. Stent implanted in RCA 2 mos
ago after 2-3 weeks of atypical angina symptoms (numbness in face, jaw,
neck; no chest pain per se). Placed on 10mg Effient, 81 mg aspirin, and
various dosages of lipitor post procedure. Also used metoprolol and isosorbide
for awhile but stopped. Have experienced varying levels of "neurological" symptoms
since implant but worsening in past week (symptoms = facial/jaw numbness;
mild neck ache; intermittent numbness in arms/legs/hands/feet; occasional
chest "fluttering"; difficulty taking deep breaths occasionally; periodic
needle like pain in feet, legs and other parts of body; muscle fatigue/heaviness.
Most symptoms come and go, but facial/jaw symptoms are most prominent/consistent.
But generally no pattern. Mild lightheadedness too. Stopped lipitor a
week ago. Effient replaced with Plavix (75mg) at same time. Nerve symptoms
persist; increased tiredness and difficulty sleeping. 3 round of blood
test (one from an ER trip) detect low sodium (129) and chloride (93).
Low Alkaline Phosphatase (35), too. Sleeping has become more difficulty.
Have seen bright red in stool several occasions, but fecal test proved
negative. Help. • Had a heart attack six weeks ago, two
stents were placed in. Hemorrhage from the Cath. into the lower back.
Was given transfusions and sent home a week later. I've been getting
palpitations and blood pressure jumps, low one day then high the
next. I'm on Verapamil 120mg. ER in the morning along with Plavix 75mg.
and
one Aspirin 81mg. Evening Metoprolol 25mg. Having nightmares when
I sleep, mostly sleep little. I thought I would feel better. I don't.
What's wrong? • 57 year old UK male Civil Servant - desk
bound job. On statins (Current dose 80mg Atorvastatin) and ACE inhibitors
since 2003. Had my first coronary
episode February 2011. A second one in April caused a VF arrest and hospital
admission. Total occlusion found in left circumflex and partial occlusion in
2 other branches of LAD and slight atheromous disease in RCA. Circumflex stented.
No pain since inpatient discharge from Hospital in mid -April 2011. Undertook
NHS sponsored weekly exercise class for 6 weeks - no pain. Do my own exercise
regime in addition - tired afterward, but no pain. Feeling good, so returned
to work part-time (Afternoons only) last week Monday June 20th. OK Monday,
Tuesday, Wednesday. But on Thursday and then again Friday had pain
left side of chest
under arm whilst seated. Pain went away late in the evening. Exhausted, slept
all day Saturday, Sunday. Woke up Monday with extreme soreness under left arm,
but no bruising. Off-work Monday and pain has now moved to lower left back.
But is not affected by exertion. Daily drugs Aspirin, Clopidogrel,
omeprazole, perindopiril,
atorvastatin, ezetrol and omacor. Any ideas what's happening? • Again to all posters, read our
response from February 6, 2011 regarding chest pains
post-stenting. And definitely discuss your medication regimen
with your cardiologist. Every patient reacts somewhat differently
to the usual heart meds and a change or adjustment in meds can
make a major difference in how you feel. The cautions about proton
pump inhibitors and clopidogrel revolve around studies that have
shown decreased effectiveness of clopidogrel (Plavix) when taken
with certain PPIs, but there are conflicting studies and you
should consult your cardiologist about this issue. • My 80 year old father had 3 stents placed
in his heart and is in a-fib. After the procedure he looked pink
and oxygenated. Now after one week his color is whitish/gray and he
feels
tired again. He is on the usual meds...plavix, antidepressants, among
some others. What else should be done for him? • I had Angioplasty stent top left of heart
(90%block)after apparent heart attack March 2011(UK). No pain near heart-pain
was in back! No high
blood pres. No high cholest.Not overweight. 5 pints beer per week. Smoked
though - NOT SINCE!
Placed on clopidogrel& Bisoprolol & Aspirin (morning) then Simvastatin +
Ramipril(night). I kept waking up with indigestion. Doctor said it's the
aspirin and prescribed
me Omeprozole. It has eased the indigestion but on internet I've read that
Omeprozole interferes with and shouldn't be taken by people on Clopidogrel.
Is it OK to
take it? Other thing is that I get strange discomfort around my shoulders
and slight spine tingling. Wouldn't really describe it as pain. Can only
think
to call it discomfort. Could one of the pills be causing it? There's slight
(very
slight) feeling of tightness. Not like at time of attack though. To me it
feels more like to do with blood vessels in my back rather than the muscles.
It's
a really weird sensation. Have others experienced same 'hard to describe'
sensation. If so at least this will let them know they're not alone. Age
57. Good site
this.
Thank You. • Hi... had angioplasty
4 months ago... m feeling fine...able to walk 5 km daily without any
problem.... but
I have one problem... Once a day or
once
in two days while lying on bed I get pinching sensation which lasts for one-tenth
of a second and things go absolutely normal after that... Is it a problem ?? • i had a Promus stent 4x18mm long at the
end of march 2011 in my LAD artery 70% block, no heart damage, and
since then i have been having random sensations of pain in the left
side of my chest. i ended up in emergency room twice at my drs suggestion,
only to find out that no troponin increase and no indication that stent
has moved, so i was released. I'm on Lipitor and plavix...any ideas
if this will go away? • Hi I'm 39 had two stents about 6 weeks
I now get really bad pains on right side about chest height but more
towards the arm. The other strange thing it feels like a vein in my
neck is pumped up with blood. I had spoken to doctor and he said lots
of people mention strange pains. But I have to go in a few weeks for
tread mill test. Pains make me feel down and make it hard to concentrate
properly. If I sleep it eases for a while but always comes back. Also
I have noticed if I get stressed it hurts. • Just had a heart attack may 19th 2011
had a stent on the 20th Still had chest pains had a cath nothing was
found. I have chest discomfort back to ed nothing is wrong I fell very
very tired ,always sleep, no energy It is upsetting me. I am light
headed,shaky, and not myself I don't know where to turn???? I did quit
smoking an I am eating right. I just don't feel like the old me!!!! • I am a 52 year old male. A month ago
I got bad food poisoning from take out and for a week heartburn sometimes
in middle of back when I walked and worse burning when trying to bicycle
ride. Went to ER and they started checking my heart first. Months before
I had been diagnosed with GERD and Sleep Apnea. EKG looked ok so suggested
a stress test with nuclear pix. Because of my bad knee I couldn't treadmill
so got vasodilator shots..bad burning then. Results said no heart attack
but suggested angiogram and cardio doc ended up putting in three stents.
After getting home got an endoscopy and they found small hiatal hernia
and erosive gastritis in atrium. On Protonix, ranitidine, effient,
toprol, lisinopril, imdur, lipitor, aspirin. After 3 weeks I have extreme
nerves like butterflies in stomach and feel jittery with flushy feeling
and nausea. Primary doc says ask cardio doc about meds and also gave
me ativan for the nerves. Gastro wants to see me this friday, bad nausea,
dry heave every morning. Can anyone help, I need to get back to work...am
I going crazy,is this just anxiety when I get this overwhelming flush
and my heart races
and I get nauseaous..Please help... Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, June 7, 2011 • Hi, fantastic website. professional and
I feel sure gives much solace to many of us. I had a stent put in the
left circumflex. y intersection ?? about 5 weeks. somehow still feel
not quite right, occasional down mood and concerned about success of
intervention. remained on 100mg cozaar and 5mg amlodipine, additionally
been prescribed Plavix 75 and aspirin 75 and Lipitor 40mg, but due
to history of stomach ulcers been given pantozol. now find that this
is contraindicated because it could lessen efficacy of Plavix Is sucralfate
ok and a good enough substitute. i read it can be. i feel heart medication
is more important at present
but need to protect stomach. many thanks. • My mum had a stent inserting on 5/11,
but now she is feeling chest pain with cold sweating again. She had
been gone to see her doctor but the doctor assessment was she had a
gastric upset. I am wondering is it true that GI upset will cause cold
sweating and chest tightness? Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, June 2, 2011 • My Husband had a stent put in last August.
He keeps having Angina, in March and again this weekend he is visibly
having an "episode' and has other heart pains 3-4 monthly and some
days multiple times a day. Our heart Dr. said this is normal. This
is not normal to us he is 46 yr old with a long family history of heart
disease. I'm fearing the stent has failed. He is taking a combo drug,
Effient and aspirin daily. • mild fluttering behind sternum that is
relieved by cough. mild warm sensation and mild dizziness last less
than 30 seconds. Is this normal after LAD stents 4 weeks ago. I am
47 happens 4-5 hours after cardiac exercise rehab. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 28, 2011 • Husband had 3 stents in January. He is
81 with Alzheimer Disease. He is on several meds
and feels nausea and exhausted
all the time. Claims to feel a bit off the ground.
Required to exercise twice a week but he really cannot do this..before
stents he was tired
and nauseated but no pain, so what good was all this?
He is
thin, perfect BP,
good heart rate, excellent cholesterol and a good attitude..are
we missing something here? Many thanks for any assistance
in a direction to feel
good again. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 28, 2011 • I am 41 yr old male. Had major heart
attack 2 years ago and had three stents placed at that time. I always
had trouble with dizziness and twinges of pain. I was first on metoprolol
and it made my heart beat in the 35-40 range and I felt horrible. Dr
took me off of it altogether and then i got extremely dizzy at work
and he could not get me in for a week. I went to my family dr who said
I needed to be on a beta blocker and put me on Bystolic. I kept getting
dizzy spells about every 6 months they would start up and each time
my Dr increased my dosage of Bystolic. Last week I felt dizzy all day
and had high blood pressure spiking at odd times under stress and when
just thinking about it made me spike. I went to the ER because I never
had pain with my heart attack just dizziness. they kept me and did
another cath and found I was clear and looked good. They took me off
of Bystolic completely and now my BP is perfect or better. Turns out
I was having panic attacks not high BP! Now I have Xanax to take for
panic attacks. bp went from running 145/90 with pulse of 40 to 119/79
with pulse of 72 without the Bystolic. I am glad they figured it out
but the cath is expensive
to figure problem. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, May 21, 2011 • I had 3 stents put in 2 days ago. 2 in
the MLAD and 1 in Diag. I am a 46 year old 46 with not prior health
issues. Not your typical patient for CAD. In shape, non smoker, no
diabetes, no family history etc. Had 95% blockage. Anyway my question
is since i had the stents put in, i am continuously feeling chest pain/heart
burn, soreness. My dr tells me that i should feel no discomfort. Pain
level is very low but there is some pain. I an concerned. Is this normal
or common? • I am a 47 year old male with a poor family
history. I have been feeling kinda crappy for a couple of months so
I went to a cardiologist. Had a nuclear stress test that showed some
mild abnormality. Scheduled an angiogram. The day before I was doing
some moderate physical work and became very short of breath and left
arm numbness. Went to hospital and blockage found with a clot. Stent
implanted. I was originally hoping to feel 10 years younger, but a
week later still off and on angina and not much energy. Is this to
be expected from here on out? I sure hope not as I have 3 small children
who like to consume a lot
of
energy. • Ted in Illinois
-- let the Forum know how you make out. You are on a number of
medications, and one or more have
upset stomach, etc. listed as known side effects. A tightness
in the chest, or angina, is a possible sign of restenosis, but the
flatulence,
etc. you
describe just seem medication-related. But by all means follow
your doc's advice and see nboth your GI doc and your interventional
cardiologist. • Not only do I feel ill, I can't remember
all the meds I take. I do take Protonix for GI problems. Prior to stent
I took Nexium and it seemed to control my GI problems but my understanding
is that the only PPI that works OK with Plavix is Protonix. Additionally,
I was on Cordarone for a few months but couldn't tolerate it all and
have been off of it for a month. I do have appt. with GI doc that did
my endoscopy
a couple years ago, so we'll see what he says. However, I really trust
my cardiologist of 25 years and he wants me to see Interventional Cardiologist
that did the stent to see if there's restenosis. Meanwhile I chew Gaviscon
all day. The only time I'm not burping is when I'm eating or asleep.
Thank you for this opportunity to discuss my issues. • Ted in Illinois -- while
we cannot give medical advice per se, Plavix and aspirin are known
stomach (GI) irritants in some
patients -- which is precisely why doctors have prescribed Proton Pump
Inhibitors like Prilosec. However, some studies have implicated some
PPIs anyway as
reducing
the
efficacy of Plavix. Read our Editor's blog "Plavix,
Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix -- Do I Hear a Nexium?" because
the FDA has cautioned physicians and patients about this. Discuss this
with your cardiologist. • I had 5 bypasses 16 years ago. Today only the LIMA is patent and my RCA
is "real crappy" and may not be amenable to stenting nor am I a candidate for
re-do bypass. In Dec. 2010 had DE stent in L main at Circumflex. Three days before
scheduled stent placement was in A-fib and had cardioversion. After stent I felt
great for about a month. Now, four months post stent, I am constantly experiencing
chest tightness, burning and burping. Nitro helps somewhat with burning, but
burping and flatulence goes on for hours. Basically, I can't do anything. I am
an active 73 old man used to working everyday and now I have trouble as soon
as I get out of bed. Bending over to tie my shoes gets the burping going and
it's all down hill from there. I have a hiatus hernia and gallstones and wonder
if part of my problem is GI. Doc thinks not. Am currently on Plavix, aspirin,
Norvasc, Triamt, Imdur, Lipitor, Synthroid and Xanax. Since stent only new drugs
are Plavix and Lipitor. Have great doctors, everyone is puzzled, and I am really
miserable. • I had 7 CABGs in 1999. On 03/09/2011,
I had a Promus Stent placement in the native circumflex . The original
Obtuse
Marginal graft has also failed. During the procedure I did develop
ventricular fibrillation and was electrically cardioverted. Prior to
the stent placement
I had experienced increased shortness of breath, angina and fatigue.
I also had a few episodes of syncope. Since the placement the angina
has
increased substantially. I also note increased palpitations, dizziness
when standing up or sometimes just moving my head, pressure in my chest
and chronic fatigue. I also now notice pain in the shoulder region,
back, radiating to my left arm. Sometimes I feel aching into the jaw.
I have
NO energy and have not resumed the normal activities I was doing prior
to the placement. My cardiologist feels we may be dealing with musculoskeletal/costochondritis
pain and not ischemic pain. I take Plavix, 81mg Aspirin, Carvedilol,
Furosemide, Potassium, Crestor, Losartan, Zetia and discontinued
per physician Imdur
after 9 days as it did not seem to help. I haven't returned to work
and am told I may not ever be able to return. I see similar post and
wonder
if has received a diagnosis yet? • Not Feeling
Well in India -- check with your cardiologist. You are supposed to
take aspirin and clopidogrel for a year
after a drug-eluting stent is placed. But we notice that you are taking
Deplatt AND aspirin. Make sure you're not taking Deplatt-A, which is
a combo clopidogrel/aspirin product (and you'd therefore be taking
too much
aspirin, which could upset your stomach). In any case, your symptoms
are definitely experienced by others, and your doctor may be able to
prescribe
something to ease the indigestion. • I am facing more than normal acidity/gas
and indigestion problem after angioplasty done in Jan' 2011.I am on aspirin,
deplatt and atorlip. Is it normal
or there is anything to worry. • Mahima from Mumbai -- when you say your dad
got a stent "last February", do you mean February 2010? If
he was not limping before his accident, one would have to assume his
swelling
and limping has nothing to do with his stent. Has he seen an orthopedist
to diagnose his problem (possibly a ligment, etc.? • Hi, my dad had a angioplasty done last
february 20th, and had a stent fixed in. Some two months ago he fell
from his motor bike with no fracture but
he had some swelling around his right knee. We approached several doctors including
his cardiologist, they find it normal since he is been advised to take tablets
which acts as blood thinner, but till date he is not able to walk with ease,
he is still limping and it pains every time he get up or sits down. I am worried
about him, Kindly advice. Thanks and Regards • I am 55 y/o female who had severe shortness
of breath. Was treated with inhalers, ended up in hospital. stress,
echo, etc were negative, but had angiogram anyway and discovered 90%
blockage
in RCA, no damage. Promus Stent put in. 2 days later, still short of
breath. Is this common? • Not Feeling Well in India -- First of all,
please read our disclaimer at the bottom of the page. Nothing here should
be considered a substitute for medical advice from a physician.
What we can say
is that
you
should
discuss
these symptoms with your cardiologist and work with him/her to adjust your
medications, if the two of you feel that may be the problem. For example,
tiredness and dizziness both are listed as "undesirable effects" of Metolar
XR, which
is a brand
name
of
metoprolol,
a well-known beta-blocker, used to treat high blood pressure. These side
effects have also reported for atorlip-f, which is a brand of atorvastatin
(Lipitor in the
U.S.), used to lower your cholesterol.
Cardace is ramipril, an ACE inhibitor, used for blood pressure control,
as well. Finally Clopivas AP is a combination drug of clopidogrel (i.e.
Plavix) and aspirin -- both called dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and
very necessary for patients after stenting (recommended for at least a
year with drug-eluting stents, to prevent clotting inside the stent). All
of these drugs are standard fare for people with coronary artery disease.
However, each individual reacts a bit differently to some or to combinations
and therefore individualized adjustment of the dosages may be necessary.
For example, some people develop an uncontrollable dry cough and/or dizziness
from ACE inhibitors; others do just fine. We would tend to think that you
are experiencing side effects from the meds, although again, this is not
a "medical opinion". (By the way, all of this information
is publicly available on the Web from the manufacturers of these drugs.)
You definitely should
not adjust dosages or stop taking any prescribed medication
without
discussing
this
with
your
cardiologist
because there may be ill effects from sudden cessation -- and it is
especially
important for stent patients to continue taking Clovipas AP. Please
let the Forum know what you and your doctor decide. It would be of
great help
to others who may be experiencing these side effects. • I am on Metolar XR, Cardace 2.5, clopivas
ap 75 & atorlip f. BP is normal, blood counts also under control. please
help • Not
Feeling Well in India -- could be meds. Not sure what you are taking
-- have you actually seen your cardiologist?
Had your blood pressure, blood count, etc. checked? • 48 yrs old female - had chest pain 3
months back - got one stent placed in right artery - things went fine
for 2 months
- I regained strength and was able to walk 5 km a day - But 20 days back
I got loose motions since then feeling weakness and continuous sense
of dizziness - cardio says parameters are normal - is this side effect
of
medicine or what - please please help . • Denise
-- Sounds like you may have suffered a vascular access complication
from where the catheter was inserted (the
femoral artery in the groin/upper leg). But that was 6 years ago, so
it's doubtful there's a connection to your present problems. Now you've
suffered
a stroke -- you have a totally blocked carotid artery, which would
be a risk factor for a stroke. Why do your doctors not think there's
not a relationship?? In any case, you have atherosclerosis: a blockage
in your
heart, now in your carotid. It's the same disease, just in a dofferent
place. What you can do is to lower all your risk factors (smoking,
diet, exercise and take the appropriate meds). Let us know what you
find out. • I had a heart attack and a LAD stent
put in 6 years ago and put on plavix lipitor and aspirin. soon after
started
getting bad cramping in front of thigh when inactive. My entire leg swelled
from right knee a was given an anti-inflammatory and was told to wrap
up with bandage. I developed a large hematoma in back of knee. my knee
was
then filled with a gel and swelling went down but i still pain in front
of thigh. I started walking and got dizzy and legs hurt. This past november
i had an ischemic stroke from my right side and they don't know where
came from. I had a TEE AND A CATA OF CHEST AND BRAIN not from heart
or neck
where there is some plaque on both sides. There's a SUBCLAVIAN STEAL
on left collar bone where there is fold. CATA show complete blockage
at origin
of CAROTID ARTERY. Blood is rerouted from left arm. I need more
tests. I wondering if stroke came from right leg. Doctors said it not
from heart
or neck • Angio boy: sounds like symptoms of reactions
to your medication. Talk to your Dr. or maybe consult with a new Dr.
maybe the best solution. • Angio Boy in
Philippines -- you said your chest pain went away around the third
month and you are having other symptoms
now. Have your discussed this with your cardiologist? You may be
having reactions to some of the medications you're on. • 35 yr male. I had a heart attack last
yr of may 2010. they placed a stent and I'm taking plavix, dilatrend,
lipitor, vastarel, dilzem, aspirin. on the first 2 months i felt chest
discomfort and was fine on the 3rd month. I'm currently on my 8th month
now after the angioplasty and i feel a lot of symptoms like nausea,
vomiting sometimes, passing out, spasms in my muscles all over the
body, lack of energy especially after treadmill exercise. I don't know
if
these symptoms are precursor to another heart attack. i asked my doctor
about it and she said the chest pain that I'm experiencing sometimes
is muscular and is not related to my heart. I'm worried because I'm
not used to my body now i get tired easily and i feel dizzy sometimes.
Any advice? • I has double bypass in 2007. Started feeling
bad in November 2010. Doctors put in a medicated stent on 3-11-2011.
Since day one I have had this horrible
anxiety/nervousness that will not go away. Any ideas please ? • I am 49yr old female, had 2 stents put
in on 25/2 - felt okay until wed of this week - feel weak, no energy,
burning
feeling under my skin & burny pain in my chest (similar to pain that
caused me to see dr like when you exercise & it starts to burn). Have
had ASD repair years ago also don't have a spleen for many years (no
symptoms have
been healthy until now). Does anyone know of a homeopathic cholesterol
med - am on crestor - not happy about this especially possible side
effects & fact that I don't have spleen so possibly more strain on liver
- I would imagine? Is there any history of this medication taken by patients
without
spleens. Also looking for diet to follow so much conflicting info out there....
Thanks. • Still having CP
(Chest Pain) in Ohio -- Here's the abstract of a journal article from 1999,
titled "Chest
pain after coronary interventional procedures. Incidence and pathophysiology." You
can see that your experience is not uncommon and not new. In fact Dr.
Raymond Erbel, one of the authors, is a pioneer of angioplasty. Your
negative results from the Cardiac CT and EGD indicate that your pain
is not being caused
by ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart muscle, possibly caused
by a blockage or reblockage of the stent) and therefore a re-intervention
is not called for. That's good. Readers have posted that such pain
does tend to recede with time. The body does have to adjust after any
medical
intervention. We've also been told that women experience this pain
differently, and sometimes the
microcirculation
can
cause this.
Certainly
be vigilant, and discuss this study with your cardiologist, but hopefully
reading it will give you a bit more piece of mind. • I'm a 54 yr old female with hx of LCD
stent placement (85%) in 2006, restenosis of same stent with another
stent. On Jan. 26, 2011, I was having chest pain and went into the
ED. They found a 70% blockage in my RCA. A stent was placed and I went
home the next day, with an OK to return to work the next Tues. From
discharge until the next Mon. Jan. 31, I continued to have left sided
chest pain radiating into my shoulder and between my shoulder blades.
I cardiac CT was done and all was well with the stents and other arteries.
I had an EGD done and nothing significant was discovered. According
to the resident who discharged me, it's normal to have chest pain for
up to 30 days and beyond after stent placement. My cardiologist said
that it's not normal, but can find no cause for my pain. I'm having
the chest pain as I write this, and I remain very concerned about everything
being OK. I'm not sure where to turn at this point. Any help or advice
would be welcomed. • I'm a 51yr old man had a stent put in
in june 2010 was off work for a month passed stress test went back
to work after a month i started getting sick
couldn't have a stool my right leg where they went in my artery always hurts
feels swollen but u cant see it feels like its under the muscle been going
to doctors 5 months now still cant work they have taken my gallbladder
out but didn't
fix why i cant work i don't know watt to do I'm tired of being at home helpless
am tired all the time wiper motor went out on my truck took 2 hrs to change
it felt like i worked over 12 hrs on it was wore out didn't feel good
for 2 days
after i got red sores that pop up every where too clear stuff comes out of
them then they bleed and
scab over didn't have them before surgery. • had stent (drug type) came out of hospital
with at least 5 + more angina . was checked again in hospital with
no clear explanation . said things were fine. am finally back to
all most as good as I was before procedures. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 23, 2011 • Had heart attack in Mar2008.Two vessel
disease. Blocked 100% and 90%. Three stents in placed. felt good but
after almost two years some times have miss beats and difficulty in
breathing with low heart beat. had my ECO and ETT . both were negative
but still have the same feeling please help me know the reasons and
advise me. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 20, 2011 • Had 2 stents put in last week. I'm an
otherwise healthy 29 year old woman whom had gained a bit of notoriety
as being full of energy until I had a heart
attack. The whole thing is mysterious, no real plaque build up in the heart,
just a giant blood clot hanging out in one of the major arteries (I have yet
to speak to a cardiologist at length however to gather details). To make a
long story short, I've been put on a host of cholesterol, blood pressure
meds, I'm
sure standard procedure, and I simply feel rotten. Now given, the week in the
hospital and the severity at which I was resuscitated likely plays a factor,
I still wonder how long I'm going to be down for the count with no energy and
mild chest pains? I work full time and I'm a full time college student with
a family, I just don't know how I'm going to hang seeing as how with
each day I
feel MORE tired than the last. Forum Editor, Angioplasty.Org, January 17, 2011 • 58 y/o male had 3 coated stents in my
RCA placed in Dec (80% blockage). After six weeks I'm having pain
in my left
breast area, left shoulder blade and between my shoulder blades. I
was having pain in these areas before the stent placement, which was
what
prompted me to see a cardio. The pain is sporadic and seems to get
better with a
heating pad. I had a heart attack when they placed the stents. Can
this pain be the result of damage. My cardio says the pain is not related
to me heart and my PCM can't find anything else wrong. He gave me
some
Voltaren
Gel to use on the painful areas but I'm reluctant seeing how one of
the side effects is bleeding. I'm on Aspirin, Plavix, Toprol, Pepcid,
Sucalfrate,
Lisinopril and Lipitor. BP Normal, Pulse Normal. I just want the pain
to go away.
Suggestions? • Stent Man --
we've mentioned this in the past -- but sometimes the meds that you first
start taking after a stent
placement may have side effects. These in addition to the natural changes
you feel after what is a life-changing event can contribute to one
feeling a bit overwhelmed. However, if the tiredness, nervousness,
etc. don't
go away, talk to your cardiologist. It's possible these are reactions to
medications. Just an example -- a patient we know recently had a XIENCE
as well and
felt okay, then not so okay. Turned out he was reacting poorly to the
statin
and since
stopping
it
(his cholesterol was actually not high) he's felt much better, normal
even. He did this, of course, with his doctor's guidance. • Just had a Xience V stent placed last
week. Felt great upon release from hospital not so great now. Have
to take Plavix
and 1 aspirin in addition to Lipitor and 2 Blood pressure meds. One that
I was on before and now a new one. Feeling kind of tired and agitated
lately. Blood pressure seems to erratic. I am a little overwhelmed
with all of
these meds I have to take. Need some reassurance that I will feel like
myself again sometime. • sd38
from Kansas -- It may take a while for the body to adjust to the stent,
to the increased blood flow and to what
are
often
two, three
or more new medications. But the depression you are feeling is normal
and has been documented in heart patients post-stent or surgery. Hopefully
your doctor can help you with this, but please write back to the Forum
with the results of your visit. • I had one stent about 2 months ago the
main vein in my heart was 80% blocked, I felt terrible the first month,
I am beginning
to pick up some energy, I still have flutters in my heart. I've begun
to have depression, everything makes me sad, I'm going to ask my heart
doctor
about this, I see him in a few days. |
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