Archived Postings from 2009 on This Page (100):
I had a stint [stent] placed in last may 2009
and now 7 months later I'm still having chest pains. I take plavix and
aspirin and beta-blocker and i think
God for the Morphine i was put on years ago for migraines. the only think that
helps me forget the pain is the Morphine and walking. I live in michigan and
i walked 3 miles each day. Now it is winter and i can't walk so i am moving
to florida to walk. If i did not have the Morphine to sleep i would be
in so much
pain i want to end my life.Gone without pain pills one night and prayed all
night to Jesus asking for help to get me through the night. Been to the
heart doctor
two or three time checked me out and said i was fine.They do not care.Told
them if i have to live with the pain the rest of my life i rather not had
the stint
in. well you would have died and i said at least I would be home. Listen up
people i am a christian man but i so want to sue the makers of this stint.
yes it is
a medicated stint. the only way to help people is find out why these stints
are giving us so much pain. Everyone thinks i am crazy and say nothing
is wrong with
me. I know my hands is in are Fathers hands so i pray and think him for the
life he gave me.
CH, Michigan, USA, December 28, 2009
Hi , my mother had a stent put in October of
this year and since then has complained of tiredness and muscle pain.
She is taking medication but recently has felt muscle spasms in the arm
that
she had the angioplasty.Is this normal? I Would appreciate any response
as this is causing my mum anxiety and stress.
Nadia, London ,UK, December 24, 2009
I have recently received two medicated stents.
(One on Wed. 12/16 and the second on Friday 12/18) One for an artery that
was 99% blocked and another
for a 70% blockage. Because of a snow storm here in DC the Drs. office is closed
and I can not make a follow-up appointment until tomorrow. I feel well, but
do have some funny sensations. Is this normal? Should I be concerned? I
don't want
to go back into the hospital...but don't want to ignore signs.
BG, Washington, DC, USA, December 21, 2009
Hi folks I had a stent put in on 1/6/2009 after
a heart attack im on all the meds but still have chest pain that lasts
for 15 to 20 seconds I used to get it 20 to 30 times a day but now it
can be 50 to 60 times a day when at rest. I have been back to the doc ECG
clear
blood tests clear they say im fine problem is its not them who have to
live with this I get days when im so tired I cant do anything and that
in turn leads to depression I can see from the other posts that im not
alone. Please if anyone knows the cause of this pain or a way to deal
with it I would be grateful for any help as this not only affects me it
also
has an affect on my family thanks
Gerard, Northern Ireland, December 19, 2009
Feedbacks of a 54 years, male, chronic smoker(since quit),slightly diabetic
(113/140), normal BP0ne stent in april 2008 and 2 more in nov 2008 for 98&99%On
both occasions for a fortnight felt sharp pricks in the heart, that gradually
vanished.All activities restored including walking 5 miles a day,driving my car,
riding my son's bike, and climbing stairs to my 4th floor apt.Good diet control.
Persisting pain in left chest area found to be muscle-related and cured with
light exercises.Feeling fit now with occasional bouts of fatigue due to a thickened
valve which has to be replaced in 3/4 years time.I have forgotten that I have
3 stents in my heart and lead a happy - but careful - life with wife of 28 years
and 2 grown up children.I don't panic or feel pressure.While walking up gradual
gradients feel tightness in chest which vanishes on reaching level ground. But
this tightness is not felt when climbing stairs.Why?I have found that (at least
in me) that physical conditions roll back to normalcy once you remove that consciousness
about stents that adorn your heart! I wish all who read this, this gift of God,
better still a clean heart not requiring any meddling up at all!
N. Gangadharan, Pune, India, December 12, 2009
Hi, i'm a 52 year old male, I had a stent placed
at LCx 80% back on 15th August, 2000 and unfortunately the same clogged
again. Yet another stent was placed at the same position on 02 May, 2005.
From last few week I am feeling pain in my left arm and in the chest
and this normally happens after consumption of meal and is more frequent
if
go to sleep immediately after the meal. Shortness of breath after doing
small amount of work is also felt. Till the time I am sittng or relaxing
I am perfectly fine. As soon as I do small exertion or even walk for
10 min, I get pain in my left upper arm and heavyness and pain in chest
Is
it normal or should I worry. Should I keep on walking or I should rest?
I am also diabetic with high levels of cholestrol, can it be related
to that also?
Mustafa K., Karachi, Pakistan,
December 12, 2009
Jean -- there may be a physical component here,
but another possibility is depression -- a study was just presented at
the American Heart Association meeting in Orlando that discussed this
issue after bypass surgery, but we think there may be implications even
for patients
who have not had surgery, but angioplasty and stenting instead. Part
of the issue is how to deal with the unexpected and often sudden presence
of
coronary artery disease (was this your first encounter with heart problems?)
-- Although geared towards surgical patients, some of the information
on the study's website may be of benefit. It's called "Bypassing
the Blues" -- a government-funded study done via the University
of Pittsburgh. Let us know what you think.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 8, 2009
Just had double stenting on 12/2/09, discharged
12/3, caught infection in hospital and sick since (4 days). Am completely
lethargic, immobile, depressed, unmotivated, no appetite, don't want
to talk to anyone, answer phone, emails, texts, facebook, etc. Could this
be side effects of surgery, medications, etc.? Taking Plavix, Isosorb,
Cozaar, Lipitor, Atenolol. No noticeable improvements. Comments/suggestions?
Thanks.
Jean A., California, USA, December 7, 2009
This
is the best article to explain what is wrong with us... there are newer
articles and american written that say the same thing... but I like this
one as it is so easy to understand, has pictures of the problem, etc. I will
later post another article that tells what some doctors are trying drug wise
to help, but none of the drugs helped me really. One is Celebrex, for example,
or prednisone, dangerous drugs perhaps, but tried by doctors. Note other
recent articles written by american doctors and scientists about patent (completely
open) stents, yet severe chest pain/angina, are by some very esteemed doctors.
Some others suggest it is the plastic (polymer) coating around the Drug eluding
[sic] stent adding to the already big problem of constant non-bending and
stretch. The problem of post (after) stent pain would occur with the bare
large stent, but not as much as with the Drug eluding [sic] stent... ..if
you really take time to search the web, you will see dozens of well written
articles about it... only way out I think seems to be to somehow have a bypass
around the stent, eliminate it. ..In my case (now 5 years old) it would mean
perhaps a 5 way bypass, since the stent is sticking into the left main, though
the blockage was originally only in the small part of one vessel, the LAD
ostium (end). So I am screwed. Others I know were able to bypass and remove
the stent with out much trouble, single vessel, etc., though it was open
chest, heart out, heart lung machine, full bypass, but only one vessel. In
my case, a 5 way bypass would be too dangerous, so I have sought other means
without success. I have tried all natural anti inflammatories with no success.
I feel time is running out. I have severe chest pain every nite and morning
since the morning after it was installed. Including now.
Steve G, Florida, November 20, 2009
Hi im glad that im not
the only person to still get a sharp chest pain that lasts for about
15 seconds after getting
a stent on 1/06/09 it has started to increase to about 30 times a day
doctor said im fine but I dont feel fine If its not the stent what
is it?
EG, England, United Kindom, November 16, 2009
Hi my dad had a angiogram a month ago, when
ever he walks he feels pain in his chest and i am deeply concerned. He
is also a diabetic at the same time.
Please let me know what could be the cause of the pain.
Sara, London, England, United Kingom, November 6, 2009
Hi, I'm 32 years old female. I had 2 stents
placed 2 months back, one in RCA (95%) and other in LCx (90%). From
last one week I am feeling pain in my left arm and in the chest. Shortness
of breath after doing small amount of work. Till the time I am sittng
or relaxing I am perfectly fine. As soon as I do small exertion or
even
walk for 10 min, I get pain in my left upper arm and heavyness and
pain in chest Is it normal or should I worry. Should I keep on walking
or
I should rest? I have stones in Gall Bladder, can it be related to
that also?
Meenu N., Delhi, India, October 29, 2009
had 5 stents put in jan.30, 09 recovered great
now for the last 3 months when i breathe it feels like i am breathing
ice cold air.
John C., Virginia, USA, October 28, 2009
I had a renal angioplasty to the left kidney
5 days ago which was ballooned because I am allergic to metals. Since
this time I have less energy than I did prior to the procedure. My
abdomen feels bloated especially after walking and I also have a hard
pea-sized
lump near the site and still feel discomfort (stinging/achy). I was
told I could resume work in 2 days but still do not feel strong enough
to
return at this time. Are these normal reactions? I was given a script
3 days
before surgery for of am Plavix 75 mg for 30 days.
Denise C., Florida, USA, October 25,
2009
48 yr male with a family history. Started having
occasional flutters in my chest...angiogram was done...blockage was
found and a stent was put in two
months ago. I still get the occasional odd feeling in my chest. Not a debilitating
pain or sharp pain just a discomfort. Sometimes when i take a deep breath I
get a very slight discomfort much like the one you get when your fighting
a cough
or chest cold. Sometimes its a pain in the shoulder blades or a dull pain right
in the center of my breastbone up near the clavicle. These pains all seem to
come when resting or at times of inactivity. They are minor enough that when
I go about my business I don't even really notice them....but they are still
there. Since the procedure I have gone back to working out and walk 3 miles
a day five times a week on the treadmill and get NO discomfort when exerting
myself.
It seems the only time the discomfort sets in is while at rest. I am on plavix
and aspirin in the AM and crestor and metoprolol in the PM. After reading all
these posts my mind is put somewhat at ease to see that others are going through
the same things however I'm going to mention these to my cardiologist when
i see
him in 3 weeks.
Jim, Buffalo, New York, USA, October 21, 2009
I had 2 cardiac stent placements about 2 months
ago and ever since have experienced severe GERD symptoms. I can't sleep,
have large amounts of foam regurgitation, burning in my throat and
chest,and the feeling that something is stuck in my throat. I have tried
prescription
and over the counter antacids without any relief! Why has this been
happening since the stent placements?
Sandra, Arkansas, USA, October 11, 2009
I had a medicated RCA stent implanted on 9/3,
I am a 54 y/o female. Although i am happy the blockage was found and
opened i have been having issues since
9/3. I am taking Plavix, Simvastatin, 81 mg aspirin and Toprol XL 25 mg 2X
per day. Initially I had terrible palpitations but they have subsided.
Currently
i have pain/heartburn under my breastbone within 5 minutes after I eat, I have
occasional pain/pressure in my left arm/in the back of my shoulder usually
associated with exercise. I am now taking Zantac 300 mg 2X a day as well
as Xanax as needed.
I am upset that i still don't feel remotely like i did before all of this started,
i take multiple pills and more pills to counteract the other pills. I used
to ride a stationary bike 50 miles a week, now i have arm discomfort
after 2 miles.
I really thought/hoped that once the stent was in things would be great. Now
i wonder if things will ever be good. Thanks for your thoughts.
Ellen, New York, New York, USA, October 2, 2009
I am writing on behalf of my mother who is
57 years old and who recently suffered a heart attack and as a result
had a metal stent inserted due to a narrowed artery. I have read the
various articles below and it is good to hear finally that other people
have encountered the same conditions post the metal stent. My mother
is suffering from dizzy spells, numbness in the arm, throbbing feeling
throughout her body and heartburn, it has been now been 6 weeks since
the stent was put in. She is also on a lot of medication which again
has been mentioned below from others also. She is feeling very down
and depressed can someone tell me good news in that this will get better,
as the doctors are just telling us everything is normal and not to
panic.
If you do feel better now how long did
you have to wait ?
Margaret, Northern Ireland, September 27, 2009
I am a 61 yr old wf, and have 5 stents in the
upper LAD and LAD. The first was in 2002, bare metal, and other 4 were
between 2007 and 2009, I have had the
nuclear tests and the last ones did not reveal my blockages -- on the CT revealed
the blockages, I am on about 12 medications. I do not feel well, have chest
pain and chronic angina, the doctor says I am fine, but I have the radiating
chest
pain again, shortness of breath, very exhausted and depressed. I am pretty
scared, my father died of a heart attack when he was 50, I am an only
child. I keep telling
the doctor of my signs and he keeps telling me I am okay. Do any of you run
into that after awhile you just don't complain to anyone, even though
you know something
is going on.
Sharon, Alabama, USA, September 25, 2009
To: Everyone Now 5 years later, same very severe
chest pain every day, after very large Drug eluding [sic] stent placed
9 mo after 2004 MI in ostium of LAD. Done at Cleveland Clinic Weston
FL.
The
Cleveland Clinic interventionist just ignored me for no reason. Said
it must be esophageal ulcers!... Later went to top Cleveland Clinic Gastero,
who did extensive studies, said everything in esophageal area perfect
and sent me back to Cardiologist who again blew me off for no reason...
Cleveland Clinic intervention dept. could care less... Refused to look
into it... Still now just as bad as first day. I have tried everything
to no avail. Dozens of drugs, Renexa, all B Blocker brands, C Channel
brands, Ace Inhib brands, hundreds of types of home remedies, supplements,
best Co Q available, Chelation, Phosphitylcholine IV therapy, Stem Cell
angioplasty in Bangkok Thailand with Theravitae (complete waste of $30,000.00).
Nothing natural I took made me worse or better... but all drugs would
actually make my condition worse, so I would search around, or stop them...
Also complete IVUS of stent at Mt Sinai in New York by top interventionist,
and investigation of stent over and over, including extensive esophageal
investigation, and aorta CT's... all super normal. Records sent to top
7 interventionists in USA, heads of departments at major hospitals: Current
thoughts: Doctors at U of Texas Austin, and N Western U Chicago told
me that they have documented thousands with severe pain like mine from
Drug eluding [sic] stent. Johnson and Johnson blew me off when I contacted
them, could care less... The Texas/Chicago study is on web. It
involved 11 major hospitals
and thousands
of cases. Read it. (Editor's note: you can read Angioplasty.Org's
article about the Texas/Chicago study here,) Possibility
now: one Florida top interventionist (and U Texas Drs also) recommended
he
gives Celebrex to many of my type of cases, of which he said there are
far more than reported (and steroids perhaps cortisone or other steroids,
if Celebrex does not work) to reduce severe constant stent caused inflammation.
The Texas Dr's also try these remedies. Have tried all over the counter
and natural inflammatories, hundreds... none work. Will now consider
dreaded Celebrex, but he said to increase aspirin a lot when taking Celebrex,
if not on Plavix. Now off Plavix for years. Local Cardio does not like
the idea of celebrex, and especially no way to Cortisone, and I agree
that Cortisone (steroid) not an option. Any one extensively investigate
this as I have?
S J Greenwald, Palm Beach, Florida, USA, September 21, 2009
Beverly -- a 20% narrowing normally is not considered
significant enough to perform an intervention. One question, which the
stress test might answer, is whether the 20% blockage is "ischemic"
(is it reducing blood flow and causing your angina)? A newer way to have
measured this would have been to use an FFR
(Fractional Flow Reserve) catheter during the angiogram. A few extra minutes, and
less
expense,
etc. would
have
yielded
a more
accurate assessment. Unfortunately only about 5% of cath labs use this
technology.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, September 19, 2009
Thought I was a pretty healthy 62 yr.old female.
Stopped smoking 4 yrs ago , don't drink at all and I am very active.
Complained of pressure in the
chest to dr. and had an ekg, negative. One month later 04/03/09, had two strong
pains in arm and chest, more like hot pressure, ended up with drug eluting stent
in lvef 75%. First two months felt great, then it went down hill have had this
pressure in left arm and chest, they think I am nuts. Had another cath 09/17/09
found 20% at sight of stent now have to do stress test to see if it is more than
20%!!! May have to have another stent. Still have the pressure and shortness
of breath and low HR 30-40 till I want to pass out. anyone else? There trying
to adjust my medication and say maybe a pace maker may do the trick, anyone out
there have
this problem?
Beverly Austin, Reynoldsburg, Ohio, USA, September 18, 2009
I had two stents done on September 3rd, 2009.
I am just not feeling right. Have pains in my chest but Dr. at PT says
this is normal and should pass after a month. But after reading this
Forum "will It"? It also seems like I have these weird thoughts. Just
glad to be alive.
Andy, Wisconsin, USA, September 12, 2009
Good morning: I had a stent placed in LAD (80% blockage. I really
hadn't had symptoms but discovered this problem in a pre-op exam. Since
placement of the stent I have had jaw & ear pain and headache and shoulder
discomfort. Am on Lipitor, ToprolXL, Plavix, Lisonopril & aspirin. Are
these symptoms normal, am I adjusting to stent or meds? I am nervous
and anxious about all this.
Gloria, California, usa, August 28, 2009
I had angioplasty in February 2009 and was
diagnosed with angina, irregular heart beat and had one stent inserted
into the proximal LAD artery as there was significant disease involving
the mid to distal LAD artery amounting to 60 to 70%. I received a 2.75
x 33 mm stent and it was recommended I have a repeat angiogram in two
to three months with planned intervention to the mid to distal LAD artery
if no evidence of restenosis in the proximal LAD stent. Restenosis occurs
when
the "treated" artery starts to close over again. I was prescribed medication
for my angina and irregular heartbeat (6 tablets each day). After several weeks
I stopped all my medication and started eating foods that contain the same medical
properties. I bought a blood pressure monitor and check my pressure several times
daily. I stopped eating transfats and started eating flaxseed oil with cottage
cheese, onion, garlic, avocados, almond nuts, oats, natto, corn, fresh fruit
and vegetables, folic acid tablets, and I have normal blood pressure and feel
very well. Unless heart attack victims change their diet and simply rely on medication
they will continue to have heart attacks.
John T., Canberra ACT, Australia, August 24, 2009
First, thanks to all who've posted before as I've taken comfort from your
kinship. My circumstance is MI 03AUG2009, medicated stent LCX OM 05AUG2009 with
follow-on cath on 17AUG2009 leaving medicated stents mid-LAD and RPDA. First
cath post-op went well with no oddities so I was receptive to follow-on cath's
as in my assessment they would 1) improve blood flow and 2) reduce the likelihood
of a future MI. I now find myself with odd "ghost pains" (small quasi muscle
aches but inside the chest), what I presume (hope) to be acid reflux / heartburn
under the sternum and high in my throat, and lot's of anxiety which merely compounds
/ muddies things. I'm also frustrated as I was previously active and am presently
restricted to convalesce. My son is weary of being my arms and legs and my wife
if bravely enduring as my therapist. I definitely share the conflict I read in
many of the posts about should I go to the ER / I am a wimp / is my circumstance "normal." One
thing I haven't read but have found to be of some use is to take the Plavix and
aspirin with food. I also remind myself that I am fortunate to have survived
the MI and that angioplasty with medicated stents is a far superior option to
earlier procedures like CABG. Bottom line my MI was a blessing as it allowed
me to "remedy" a problem that could have resulted in far worse outcomes (just
not always easy to view it this way given post-op feelings).
Matt, Dallas, Texas, USA, August 23, 2009
Thomas -- you're unfortunately an example of
a patient for whom the standard nuclear stress test did not pick up the
coronary artery disease (CAD). Many of the imaging experts in our Imaging
and Diagnosis section have suggested that a CT Angiogram might be a better
test for identifying blockages than the standard nuclear stress exam.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 23, 2009
Jan '05 suffered heart attack - 99.5% blockage
of LAD. Had complained to GP about being tired, etc. Prescribed EKG,
Echo, and nuclear stress test - all showed there was no problem. Three
stents in LAD. Two stress tests showed I was doing great. July '07
went to dr with chest pain - eventually placed two additional stents.
Two
more stress test, Echo, and Doppler show no blockage and good function.
Have occasional chest pain (10-20 seconds). Is there a connection between
the chest pain and the stents. On Plavix, Coreg, Altace, and 320 mg
aspirin. Just put on Imdur in response to chest pain complaint. Can't
help but
wonder
what's next.
Thomas Ferguson, Middletown, Pennsylvania, USA, August 20, 2009
Elaine -- read through some of the other posts
and you'll find that you are not alone in your "post-stent" adjustment.
Definitely write down all of your complaints and get your cardiologist
to address them. Tiredness, joint pain, etc. can all be possible side-effects
from some of the medications, which may need adjustment. Depression is
a not uncommon reaction as well to your new situation -- perhaps your
hospital or cardiologist has a cardiac rehab program available. Very
often sharing these feelings with others is the first step to feeling
better.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 20, 2009
Hello everyone, my name is Elaine I had a stint
[stent, ed.] put in July 2009. On plavix, Lipitor, aspirin, Atenolol,
Quinapril and Hydrochlocrothiazide. I am tired all the time my limbs
are so heavy.
Plus depression. What am I going to do can't keep going this way will
see doc in two weeks. This is really hard because I walk now it is
so hard. Any advice out there?
Elaine, Pennsylvania, USA, August 20, 2009
hello on dec 18 i had a bare metal stent installed,
through diet and a new look on life i lost 37lbs and thought i was
in the clear, till last month
the pain returned in my left arm and some sharp 1-5 secs jabs in my chest.
they put in a drug alluding [eluting, ed.] stent inside the bare metal
stent and for
the first 7-10 days i felt great however last sunday, pain and tiredness
returned.
This sucks i
am
37 and have no known family history.
Larry, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, August 18, 2009
Wow! It is enlightening for me to read all
the posts here. I had a Promus stent in LCA less than two weeks ago
due to an 80 t0 90 percent blockage. Prior to that, I had always exercised
vigorously for 1 to 2 hrs a day, so this came as quite a surprise.
A
few days before the cath, I began feeling pain in chest and numbness
in both arms. The procedure went quite well, with no complications
and there had been no MI. A few days afterwards, I tried to resume some
of
my activities-biking a bit, running- and was astounded to find that
I had shortness of breath just walking a few hundred yards. Also, constant
fatigue and loss of appetite. After reading your posts, it seems that
all this is normal and I am being impatient. I am age 66, female and
want to run a marathon before I croak,
and this site has given me hope.
Jan F., South Carolina, USA, August 15, 2009
To recent posters -- you're right that this
question is asked all the time. It seems that people react to stenting
differently: some are fine right away, others seem to need a period,
sometimes a longer period, of adjustment. Assuming there are no vascular
complications to recover from (that's a whole other story) it's more
of an adjustment to the increased blood flow and often the medications
that are prescribed. Very often an angioplasty is the first time the
patient has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, and the first
time several of the standard meds have been given. These drugs can have
side effects from shortness of breath and muscle pain to coughing and
drowsiness. We certainly suggest that all patients having ANY unexpected
symptoms should discuss these with their cardiologist. Assurances can
be given, meds can be adjusted and, in the rare cases where something
is amiss, corrective action can be taken. As for activity after stenting,
this is also an individual case-by-case decision to be guided by your
doctor. For more stories on weight-lifters, marathon runners and bicyclists,
read our Forum Topic on Exercise
After Angioplasty.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 15, 2009
I am 43yrs old male. LAD 99% blocked. I had
2 medicated stents, but even after one month experiencing pain and discomfort
in left upper part of chest.
I consulted 3 doctors and all necessary tests undergone were normal. The doctors
are having no answers other than saying that everything is normal. My concern
is still the same as why is this pain? and why the doctors are not having any
answer to my problem?
Dr S, Oman, August 14,
2009
Just had a stent in the LAD (1 week ago). Post
procedure, occasional clamminess, burning sensation in the chest (comes
in waves), strong heart beat and raised pulse that subsides with 25-50mg
metoprolol. Trust the cardio and the post op tests (all ok) but he
seems a little light on when it comes to explaining these disturbances.
Seems
I have company, thanks, its reassuring hope they subside over time.
The way I look at it all these are better than the alternative, I don't
want
to join the turf club yet! Will check in from time to time.
Kevin Darke, private citizen, NSW, Sydney, Australia, August 11, 2009
Hi. In Early July 09 I had to have a Stent
placed in my mid RCA as a result of a 98% blockage. I only have one stent
in
there and was placed on plavix, aspirin and a couple BP meds and cholesterol
med. After 10 days, my Cardio told me to resume normal activities. I
got back on my skates and started my program but found that after about
15 min or so, I feel pain up my throat and jaw particularly in the jaw
joints. I occasionally get some chest discomfort when lounging around.
I know this is asked a million times on this forum, but no one has really
answered it clearly. Is it typical to have an adjustment period after
stent placement? I have never taken BP or Cholesterol meds so is my body
adjusting to that stuff? Am I just being a baby and should just suck
it up? Most others I know who have had them said that they felt 100%
afterward, but none of them really exercised like I do. Any input here?
It would be appreciated.
Jake, Michigan, USA, August 4, 2009
Just a note of follow
up. It has been 10 weeks since I have had new alluding
[eluting] stents put in to open bare metal stents that closed up on me. I have
had the burning, angina and a feeling of mentholatum in my chest for
the
entire 10 weeks,
but it has begun to subside. Taking Plavix, Aspirin, Diovanin (HCT) and Isosorbide.
Something I didn't realize is that my symptoms occur heavily after I take the
meds or after a meal and then taper off. I took 0 meds prior to my MI last November.
Not even a tylenol....so my system isn't used to these meds for sure. I took
a TUMs after a meal and wouldn't you know, no symptoms. I believe the aspirin
is making my stomach irritable and maybe the other meds as well. So maybe this
is just gastro related and not stents after all. I will post when I know more.
John N., Indiana, USA, July 28, 2009
I had two stents placed in the right coronary
artery on Friday. Today, with almost any activity, I get a burning
sensation. Has anyone else experienced this? It subsides rapidly with
rest. I welcome
any comments.
Arthur, Cranston, Rhode Island, USA, July 27, 2009
AD -- you're welcome and thank YOU for following
up. TO ALL READERS! Look over AD's initial post here --
it's very detailed in the way he is feeling poorly, to the point where
he thought he might want to go to the ER. Then read his most recent post
below -- even just a few days and he is feeling better.
As for BP monitors, the electronic ones with cuffs
are not bad -- a good idea is to bring it with you to your doctor's appointment
and "calibrate" it by having him use it on you right after
he takes your BP with his office monitor. That way you get a sense of
how accurate
it is, and whether it reads high or low. Also BP can vary over the course
of a day. In taking a reading, SF cardiologist and blood pressure expert
Dr. Colman Ryan has told us he throws out the first reading and then
averages the next two or three to get the most accurate BP.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 27, 2009
Angioplasty.Org Staff, many thanks for your response
and alerting me on Prilosec interactions with Plavix. I have contacted
my cardiologist and
PCP and awaiting response. I am sure even they are unaware of this latest
development.The discomfort I was feeling on left side has gone away since
for the most part. Still experiencing some Gout, blurry vision and at
times light headedness but Its been exactly two weeks now since the DES
placements and I am feeling much better now. Any recommendations for
BP monitors? The electronic ones are always some points off from the
mercury
ones. Any guidance will be helpful. Regards, AD
AD, Leesburg, Virginia, USA, July 27, 2009
Hi! I'd been on several
prescriptions for heart failure but still felt shortness of breath.
In December 2009, I had 3
stents placed for radiation damage from radiation therapy from 1972.
Since then I've had lots of trouble with shortness of breath. Finally
starting to feel better but it's been a long uphill journey. Glad to
see I'm not alone!
Robin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA, July 27, 2009
AD and others -- you are right that the stent
booklet states you should not feel the stent itself, but a number of
posters in this topic do feel discomfort. This is documented, and in
some this
discomfort lasts a bit longer than in others, as the body gets used
to the increased blood supply and other changes. Some of these changes
are
new medications that are prescribed, especially
if
the
patient
had
not
previously
been diagnosed with coronary artery disease. These meds can cause a
range of side-effects, from coughing to light-headedness, muscle ache,
etc.
If you experience discomfort, we recommend discussing this specifically
with your cardiologist. Perhaps your drug regimen can be adjusted,
or a specific drug swapped for another. Or, if he/she suspects anything
serious, it can be tested for.
And AD, you mention you are taking Prilosec. Are you
taking this over-the-counter on your own? You should definitely discuss
this with your cardiologist. You should read our article, "Heartburn
Drugs Increase Cardiac Events for Stent Patients by 50%" about the fact
that PPIs like Prilosec may interfere with the anti-clotting properties
of Plavix.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 25, 2009
I am a 43yr old south asian male and experienced
gastric and acidity symptoms over the weekend two weeks ago. The heartburn
pain radiated from chest to neck and up to my jaws. Abnormal ECG lead
to blood enzyme test in the ER that showed Troponin I level of 31(normal=0.3).I
was medivaced and catheterized the same day where two DES stents (one
in Ramus -fully blocked and one in LAD-partially blocked) were placed.
I was discharged on 3rd day and my Troponin I was at 3.7 at discharge.
Its been 13 days and I have been getting better gradually but started
feeling a strange discomfort (not pain) on left side of chest just
under the nipple area since last night. Feels like burning sensation.
Its constant.
The stent booklet suggests I should not feel the stents. Haven't tried
nitro yet. Not sure if I should go to ER. Just walked a mile at normal
pace and felt fine breathing wise. My BP is in normal range with meds.
I am on Plavix, Aspirin, Zocor, Lisinopril and Lopressor. Some side
effects I am feeling are: Gout, Blurred vision mostly at night and gastric
stomach.
I am taking prednisone (tapered dose) for Gout and Prilosec for gastric
issue. Would love to know if anyone has tried any remedies for such
side effects. I have primary care and cardio appointments next week.
Hopefully
I will get my dosage adjusted. Right now I am trying to decide if I
should go to ER with this chest uncomfort? I thank you all for posting
your
stories
here. Very helpful.
AD, Leesburg, Virginia, USA, July 25, 2009
I am a 55yr. old female and had a heart attack.
I had 100% blockage of my Right Coronary Artery and had a medicated
stent put in. That was June 3, 09
I have a poking feeling in my chest sometimes it feels like something is stuck
there. Is that normal? Will it go away? Maybe it's the stent I feel. Anyone
else have that feeling?
Lynn S., Rochester, New York, USA, July 24, 2009
i had a stent put in my heart a couple of weeks
ago and i still feel discomfort and little pain is it normal or what
is going on?
Dighto Lane, Towanda, Pennsylvania, USA, July 24, 2009
Wanted to call attention to Joyce's
posting on July 13, 2009 in the topic "Angioplasty
Recovery Period" -- addresses many of the questions
being asked here.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 23, 2009
If you read through the over 400 posts on this
topic, you'll see that a number of posters have
described chest pains for a while after stenting. Although some describe
this going away after a few day or even weeks, pain can be an indicator
of any number of things. As for what action you should take, nothing
on this Forum should be used in place of medical advice -- every patient's
clinical situation is different. Certainly continue trying to contact
the cardiologist who
did the procedure and impress on his/her office the urgency of your concern.
As for a trip
to the ER, you really have to judge for yourself if there's a problem
needing emergency assistance. Can other readers chime in here? Definitely
let the Forum know how things pan out. Also, when you say "stent 25 and
26" are you saying your father has had 26 stents placed??
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 23, 2009
Hello, I'm new to this site. My father just
had stent 25 and 26 place in circumflex on the 21st of July. He has been
home since yesterday afternoon, but when I talked to him this morning
he states he had chest pain since last night continuing into this morning.
He states it's a 5 out of 10 and the pain lasts longer than he is used
to then ends and comes back within just a few minutes. My father is not
one to c/o pain. Had him call MD office and let them know he was having
increased pain that he was not having in hospital and he needs to talk
to someone. That was 2 hours ago and still no RN or MD has returned his
call. I think he should let me take him to ER, but he "doesn't want to
bother
anyone". Has anyone else with stent placement had this increased specific pain
after procedure? Like I said he has had many angios with stent placement and
has not had this
problem. Any help!?!?!
KNJ, Ontario, Canada, July 23, 2009
I just got an stint [stent] last Saturday and
it's coming to Wednesday now and i kinda still have the fluttering and
little pain what is up with that
does
anyone
know? And does the Ramipril really help fluttering?
GH, Manitoba, Canada, July 22, 2009
I WANT TO KNOW IF ANYONE HAS A PINCHING PAIN
IN THEIR CHEST AFTER HAVING
A STENT?
Gloria, Meridian, Mississippi, USA, July 14, 2009
I am a 68 wf who has 8 stents placed 6/13/09 & 6//15/09 & later
developed pylonepnritis which required hospitalization for 8 days. I
am now home for a
week & feel
extremely tired & weak. I don't know if it from the stents or infection & I am
getting very depressed because I thought I would be better by now. I am seeing
the cardiologist on Mon. I hope he has an answer.
Betty, New York, USA, July 11, 2009
Had a myocardial infarction November 2008, immediate
response from our wonderful EMS personnel, got me to the hospital in
time to control the heart
attack and transport me to another hospital for cath and bare metal stents. Got
two in my LAD to remove 80% blockage. Felt fine for 3 weeks during convalescence
and then started feeling angina symptoms. 6 weeks to the day I drove myself to
ER and was there all day. All tests were negative, but I got cathed again, where
they found the bare metal stents had closed up. Got eluding stents placed in
same locale and now feel weird all the time. Burning in chest, numbness
in arm and
face, dizziness or lightheaded. First time all the symptoms hit, about three
weeks after operation, I went to ER after taking four sublingual nitro pills.
They had no effect what so ever. ER found no indications of MI in progress and
Cardiologist said it was Angina. Released me, go to cardio rehab and had a check
up. Docs all say I am in great shape with my heart. But symptoms still occurring
and they say I am good to go till next year's follow up. Scared every time it
happens that it is a MI, but how does one tell... I feel foolish and like I am
a whiner for
complaining, but what does one do when no one believes you?
John N., Indiana, USA, July 9, 2009
I had 2 stents put in 2 weeks ago, 06/15/2009
95 percent blocked.48 years old female I feel no better. still have
angina and chest tightness, get tired and out of breath easy, chest also
feels
warm inside when I get the angina.Not sure if it is working as I feel
it is not. Going to doctor tomorrow. starting
to get depressed.
Helena, Baltimore, Maryland, USA, July 5, 2009
SK, hi, just to reassure you about your husband,
i had stent for lad occlusion 7 weeks ago , one month later i got the
same symptoms as your husband , i was subjected to a 2nd cardio-angiogram
but every thing was ok. As my doctor told me that what cause this pain
is stretching or spasm of the coronary artery because of the stent.What
i think the case of your husband is a type of neurosis, he will need
a psychological rehabilitation.
Salam, Alislam, Saudi Arabia, June 28, 2009
In December of last year, I underwent LCX stent
placement for a 50% blockage. Since then, I have been dealing with a
'pinching' sensation in the left side of my chest, and the irregular
heart rhythms I used to feel once in a while are now occurring several
times a day. The doctor says everything is okay, but a lot of these times
I feel as if I'm about to pass out. I've also been feeling very tired
since then. Any ideas?
Dove, New York, USA, June 27, 2009
I just completed angioplasty and 2 stents were
placed in my coronary distal artery about 3 days ago. When I took my
medication after that I experienced pain in the center of my chest every
time I swallow. I also feel that same pain whenever I eat but only when
I swallow. I didn't have these symptoms prior to my heart cath...what
is going on?
Julie, Kansas, USA, June 26, 2009
Hi, I'm a 60 year old male with a recent heart attack and 2 medicated
stents that followed due to significant blockage. 8 months later I am still experiencing
minor "ache" in my upper left chest, and occasional "strange" sensations apparently
only other stent recipients can understand, because doctors just look at you
like you're making it up. I believe a lot of the strange sensations stent recipients
believe are heart related are actually just acid reflux: pain, of course, is
in an entirely different category, and seems unexplainable in my case, since
my cardiologist says "everything's fine!". Hang in there and try different statins,
NOT just your doctor's favorite!
Hank, Los Angeles, California, USA, June 22, 2009
My father has undergone a PTCA procedure done
on his left circumflex artery on 10/6/2009. Now he has got a swollen
ankle with complaints of short breathness too. He is on ecosprin and
clopidogrel and few other medicines. Could these have
an effect?
Pranjal, New Delhi, India, June 13, 2009
I have had a MI, 11 yrs ago. I had my first
stent inserted in my LAD it was a bare metal one. Following that five
yrs later I had another bare metal
stent put into my mid circumflex. I experienced fatigue and chest pains following
my first procedure, but felt most of it had to do with med adjustments. The
2nd time I thought something was wrong, I called my cardiologist and
she stayed in
touch with me throughout the day and the next followed up with me, as she felt
what I was describing was a spasm as the interventional cardio inserted a large
stent. In time it did let up. 4 yrs later I again had to have angioplasty and
had 2 DES stents inserted in my right coronary artery and 1 bare metal stent
in my mid circumflex again , and again I suffered pains following and strange
sensations. I also had a suffered a infection in my artery and my artery closed
down in my arm, I had a lot going on and the discomfort I felt was not very
comforting that all was well. It did take a few months for all to calm
down, maybe this
will help others feel a little comfort. I take a lot of meds and have never
completely felt myself again, but I feel pretty good. Just remember doctors
prescribe the
meds, but I think unless you're taking all these meds yourself, you can't say
for sure how your patient feels from them. To end, I think a lot of
discomfort some
feel after stenting is the body adjusting to the insertion and healing.
Donna G., New York, USA, June 9, 2009
Wow! To each person's article I've read, God
bless each of you. I'm somewhat scared for my friend now. He's getting
a stent in tomorrow, he has a partially blocked artery. Right now I
don't know much of what's going on because he's not telling me much.
He's in
Texas and this is the route that he decided to take. I wish him as
well as everyone else, the will power to keep going and stay focus on
the
positive side of life, that's YOU and FAMILY!!!!
Lisa, Missouri, USA, June 1, 2009
Nilakantan -- muscle or joint pains are a known
side-effect of statins. Perhaps your cardiologist can adjust the dose,
change to a different statin or you can supplement the cholesterol-reducing
effects of the statin through a stricter diet -- although this is not
always
successful.
Re: your
earlier post, the Forum is a place for sharing information and not
a Q&A vehicle (we'd need a full staff of physicians for that). That
being said, your doctors were good in motivating you to change life-style,
but progression
of
coronary
disease
sometimes
does not respond to that (although it's hard to say where you'd be if
you hadn't made those adjustments). Medications (such as statins) can
also help, but why blockages continue to occur is the mystery of coronary
artery disease. Researchers are learning more every day, but for now
the use of stents and other catheter interventions, when lifestyle and
medical treatment aren't enough, can be very effective in preventing
or reducing angina.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 1, 2009
An year after stent, and six months after further
2 stents in different locations, muscle pains occur. Cardiologist rules
out angina and attribute muscle pain to Atorvastatin (brand name
Lipitor, ed.)
which is common. Any therapies for that? By the way my queries
of 10 May 2009 still unanswered.
Nilakantan G., Pune, India, May 30, 2009
I'm a 48 year old male, I had stent put in 10
days ago. Went home with new prescription Metoprolol 25 mg. Also on
plavix and lipitor. At night I take
a ambien to help go to sleep, but I'm now getting some feelings of Anxiety
during the day. Is there a certain time of day I should be taking the
Metoprolol. Dr.
said she eventually wants to increase Metoprolol to 100 mg. Will this make
anxiety worse? or is there something else I could take?
Lee, Iowa, USA, May 26, 2009
I had a stent put in made by St Judes. it was
the drug coated coated, since the stent and the Angioplasty I feel
100 per cent better. I had it done at Staten Island University Hospital,
excellent hospital and doctors there. (Editor's note: St. Jude doesn't
make a coronary stent -- perhaps Steven is referring to the vascular
closure device Angio-Seal, which IS made by St. Jude.)
Steven K., New York, USA, May 23, 2009
To Madi, Kat and all readers -- the major concern
after an angioplasty/stent procedure is an abrupt closure
of the artery, something that rarely happens
in the stent era -- and something that would have very strong
symptoms. Also if patients feel significant angina, this
is certainly of concern as well. But, if you look
through the almost 400 posts to this topic since it was started,
you'll see a similar pattern and complaints, usually somewhat
undefined discomforts,
strange feelings, etc. These are certainly disturbing, however,
many report these do go away as the body adjusts. Some of
these
complaints
may
also be
due
to
new
medications
prescribed. Plavix and aspirin, for example, can have gastric
side effects (heartburn, etc.) which is why sometimes antacids, H2
blockers or PPIs
are also recommended (but recent studies have shown PPIs
-- Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix,
etc -- may reduce the effectiveness of Plavix). Other drugs
may have side-effects of fatigue, muscle pain, etc. And finally, anxiety
about
these discomforts, and certainly about the discovery of one's
coronary
artery disease, is known to have physicial manifestations.
Some
posters report
that a visit or two to the cardiologist to adjust the
medications
or
help
with these discomforts have provided relief. Relaxation exercises
also can ease anxiety. And sharing these concerns, as many do
here, is useful
just so you know this is a not uncommon experience. Hope this
is of some help.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 23, 2009
Hello. My father suffered a heart attack and
had a stent implanted in his artery about 6 months ago. However, he
keeps complaining that his chest area feels hot or warm till this day.
Many
trips to the hospital produces results that there was nothing wrong
with him. This burning sensation has made him very tensed and very stressed.
Please, please, what is going on and what is the solution?
Thanks a million!!
Madi, New South Wales, Australia, May 23, 2009
I'm a 52 yr old female, just had my second stent
in my LAD, and I've been having these 'sharp' pinching kind of pains,
and occasionally a 'fluttering'
feeling in my chest. Is this normal? My cardiologist says nothing is wrong,
everything looks good but he also scheduled me for another stress test.
The last one was
a week before my latest stent. Does anyone have an explanation for the 'pinching'
pain?
Kat, Millville, New Jersey, USA, May 22, 2009
Hi, On April 22, I had a nuclear stress test
and blood work...well 8000.00 worth and got the green light! My heart
was in perfect shape..On the 25th I had a major heart attack in the
ladies restroom at a roping. I died and then came back..Needless to say,
I had
85-95% blockage in 4 arteries. I am home now, my Dr. put 5 stents in,
but I am having chest pains quite often and a little shortness of breath.
I take the nitro and get some relief but I don't know how many times
a day I can take it? For every episode? Are these chest pains normal?
I am trying
hard not to be afraid!! Anyone have any answers?
CA, Monahans, Texas, USA, May 17, 2009
Rhonda -- thanks for sharing your situation
and feelings with us. Yes, this is a scary time but we urge our patients
to communicate as much as possible with the interventional cardiologist.
Especially after reading through the materials on a site like ours, the
patient is in a better and more informed way to understand what their
situation is -- hopefully with less "dread". Your nuclear stress
test was possibly positive, but the only way to be sure is to take a
direct
look via an angiogram. The advantage is that, should something be found,
it can be treated in the same procedure -- although you should discuss
this with your cardiologist BEFORE the cath lab, if possible. It's possible
your existing stent is closing up (in-stent restenosis) --
something which can be addressed by redilating it with a balloon, or
possibly another
stent
inside of the existing one. Or perhaps there is a blockage in another
part of the LAD or even another artery. These days bypass surgery is
pretty much reserved only for patients with very severe diffuse multivessel
disease. There is also the possibility that nothing has changed and the
angina is not related to a blockage -- women experience coronary artery
disease differently from men. Good luck and please let the Forum know
how you fare.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 16, 2009
Hi everyone, I am new to this site. I was doing
some surfing since my latest nuclear chemical stress test and very
scared and looking for answers. I had a stent inserted in my LAD in July
of
2008. I haven't' had any heart related issues since the stent was put
in, until recently. I had one day of mild chest pains on and off through
out the day. I reported this to my interventional cardiologist that
had me come in for an ekg and a subsequent nuclear chemical stress test.
OMG that was the most horrible test. The drugs make me feel like my
lungs
were collapsing and on fire. I had an immediate headache and became
nauseated and throwing up less than 2 minutes into the test. The nurse
that day
told me everything looked fine. The next day Friday at 5 pm I got a
call from his office telling me some ischemia was noted in the test that
they
want me to go in for another angiogram. The test indicated some further
blockage but that my heart was pumping well. That's literally all she
could tell me. Now I'm terrified. I don't know anything other than
the blockage is on the left side again. So could it be my LAD? do I need
yet another stent in that area? Could I be looking at having heart
by
pass now? I wasn't able to speak to my Dr. 5:00 on a Friday of course
he was unreachable. I'm 44 years old. I never expected to be dealing
with all of this at my age. My family does have significant instance
of heart disease though. My Dad had bypass surgery at the age of 46.
Until reading this site I didn't even know it was possible to put more
than one stent in the same vessel like the LAD. Maybe that's what they
will do? I guess I wont have any answers till after Monday's angiogram.
I'm just really scared.
Rhonda, Marble Falls, Texas, USA, May 16, 2009
Saeed and others feeling pains after stenting
-- take note of Natalia's post below from May 13 (thank you Natalia!!)
and also read my post
from March 21.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 16, 2009
i am 35 year old an Had a stent placed in L coronary (85% blockage) 2
months ago. After the blockage was discovered thanks to a persistent PCP, and
the stent inserted, now some time I am feeling chest pain. i have tested the
blood and treadmill walk, the result seemed fair but still i am feeling pain
in my
chest some time can you please explain?
Saeed, Abu Dhabi, UAE, May 14, 2009
THIS MIGHT HELP -- My mother, 74 y/o. prior
to stenting she experienced chest pain once every 3 ms radiating to
the jaw. She was recently stented. After the 1st stent, she developed
severe
chest pain several times a day. Her cardiologist did another angiogram
and put another stent in. The chest pain subsided for a week and came
back with the same severity radiating to the left arm and jaw and back.
She went back for another angio which showed 10% occlusion which is
minimal. Her cardiologist explained that the heart is having spasms and
they need
to come up with the right cocktail of meds to relieve those spasms.
They have tried many different medications for 4 months. The pain is
basically
gone now. She is taking: Lopressor 25mg twice a day;Norvasc 5mg twice
a day;Plavix 75mg once a day; Aspirin 325mg once a day;Nitro patch
0.4mg 8a.m-8p.m.; Zocor 20 mg at night. Also, try to take some Xanax
.25 at
night it calms everything down. Once in a while she gets some numbness
in the tongue and jaw and some residual chest pain but not as sever
as before She takes nitro spray for that and she gets instant relief.
I
hope this helps. Good luck to all of you.
Natalia, New York, USA, May 13, 2009
I had a stent placed
in April 2008 for a 96% blockage. At that time 2 smaller blockages of 45%
and 50% were also present, but
the doctors assured me
that they would at least remain the same with medication, diets and exercises.
I followed that regime to a T, but again in Oct 2008 felt the same symptoms of
an attack. Angiogram revealed that the minor blockages had escalated to 96% and
98%, which necessitated in implanting two more stents. Now I feel fine and fit,
with walking of about 5 miles a day, strict diet control, but sometimes
feel a slight
pain in the chest, which is NOT activity related. My questions are
1.Can another
blockage develop within 6 months?
2.Can I increase my exercises to include swimming
too?
Nilakantan G., Pune, India, May 10, 2009
I had a stent placed on 4/24/09 in my LAD.
It's a week later and I'm experiencing chest pressure and it feels
more difficult to breath. For the past 6 hours I've been feeling what
can
only be described as stabbing pains in my back. They are like spasms,
that come 5 or 6 in a row and subside for a while and come back an
hour or so later. I still feel winded climbing stairs, but my heart isn't
racing like it used to when I'd get to the top. I don't feel much different
than before the procedure (I had one artery blocked over 70%.) How
long
do the pressure and breathing difficulties go on for? Also, has anyone
ever experienced this stabbing pain. It feels like a knife being stuck
in my back.
Sherry, Burlington, Wisconsin, USA, May 3, 2009
It's been 4 weeks since I had a stent placed
in my left ccm. Prior to my heart attack, I was feeling great and never
was sick a day in my 57 years.
Since I had a stent put in, I been having weird chest sensations, it feels
like my heart to moving and I constantly seem to be taking deep breaths.
I went back
to my doctor and he told me that everything was fine. I wonder how long these
sensation will last, I am awoken most nights out of my sleep with heart sensations.
Larry, Naples, Florida, USA, April 23, 2009
Hi There my name is Sean and I am 32 years
of age.On the 16/01/2009 I experienced severe central chest pain and
shortness of breath which lasted an hour or so, it got to the point
I went to the hospital. I was diagnosed with a spontaneous right coronary
artery dissection and required a bare metal stent. A month later I
started
to get the pain again but not as bad but in the same place, all my
other arteries are clear, I have no blockages and a fasting Cholesterol
of
3.3. I went straight to the hospital where they decided to do another
angiogram just to make sure all was ok with the stent, it had started
to heal well and there were no obvious problems. Since then and it's
now april I have been in and out of hospital with the same pain, I
have had every test under the sun and nothing! So they send me home with
anti-inflammatories
and panadiene.This is driving me crazy, is this just stent pain? I
thought stent pain only went on for a week or two after insertion? Does
anyone
have any ideas,I have seen 3 cardiologists who cannot explain the pain
which makes it all the worse. Regards.
Sean Clark, Australia, April 5, 2009
Update from my 10/2/08 AMI and stent in my circumflex: After a visit to
the emergency room on 3/19, I went in on 3/27 for Ad Hoc Angioplasty. Two Medtronic
DES stents were placed in my LAD to correct a 90% and 80% blockage. I feel great,
better than I have in years, except for the headaches. I hope they will subside
soon as my body adjusts to the increased blood flow.
Eve, Petaluma, California, USA, April 5, 2009
GR -- many on this Forum topic have noted feeling
"abnormal" for a week or more after a procedure (balloon or stent)
but different patients have different experiences. New drug regimens
also
can have effects, especially on the elderly. Sometimes dose adjustments
or changes in meds are done. (But don't stop taking anything, especially
Plavix, without consulting your doctor.) Specifically fatigue is listed
as an uncommon but possible side-effect of statins. Fatigue can also
come from feelings of depression which are not uncommon -- pretty normal
actually. But don't take any of this as medical
advice -- that's something only your cardiologist can
give. If
you
are having
a communications
problem with your doctor, perhaps a second opinion would be a good
idea.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 4, 2009
I had a DES and ballooning in RCA last month,
placed on aspirin, Plavix, statin and metoprolol. Have not had a day
where I feel my "normal" self since. Went back this week and saw the
case manager at the cardiologist's office who sternly assured me that
none of my meds could be causing my fatigue. She ran an EKG and did thyroid,
which I knew would show nothing. My EKGs were normal even with the blockages.
She all but dismissed me as a whining little ole lady. Trust me, I am
not. I located this forum to see if it were just me or if others had
the same problem. I'm afraid of going off this stuff now that I have
read about the possibilities. I'm becoming very despondent over the whole
situation.
GR, Florida, USA, April 3, 2009
I am a 57 yof I had a stent placed in my RCA
in Aug of 2008 I never felt good after the stent. I work in a hosp
as a Resp therapist and work 12 hr shifts on my feet most of the day.
I
started having SOB and extreme exhaustion. I came home on a Sun night
at 8 PM and slept until Tues morning. I went to my cardiologist and
had a positive stress test I had to have another stent put in the LAD
for
blockage in Mar of 2009. Now I am worried this is going to be an ongoing
thing, stent every 6 months. Everyone I talk to too in the Drs. office
has multiple
stents, lil scarey.
Jill Asaro, Houston, Texas, USA, March 21, 2009
To posters who are concerned that something
is wrong, what we read from a large number of you is that there is a
tightness or heaviness in the chest immediately post-stenting. This has
been reported before and may be an adjustment to the stenting, and the
increased blood flow. It may also be a symptom of anxiety, which naturally
follows any type of significant medical issue. But we always urge patients
to listen to their own body and, if they feel something is not right,
not to hesitate calling their cardiologists, preferably the interventional
cardiologist who did the stenting procedure -- he/she is trained to spot
potential problems post-procedure. As for
tests to see if everything is ok, you should discuss these with your
doctor,
and
also
read our section
on Patient
Guide to Heart Tests.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 21, 2009
my father had heart pain since few days and
doctors advised to have tmt test and it was +ve and doctors did angiogram
and they put stent 5 days back
, but after putting stent he is feeling discomfort like he has pain in between
heart and shoulder and he is depressed and tense. We consulted several doctors
for second opinion and they took ECG and say it might be muscular pain as they
find ECG doesn't show any problem. What could be causing this or are than any
suggestions on what our next step should be?
Suniath, Dallas, Texas, USA, March 18, 2009
I am 50yrs old and had 2 stents done in my
heart artery in Jan 2007. To date, I feel worse than before the stent.
My heart
feels very tight and pain. I experienced missed heart beat. I have breathless
days. My shoulder and heart area feels very tight and as though I cant
breathe enough oxygen. Went back to the Doctor and went through more
test but the result the doctor said is " I am ok. Everything
is fine" I
still feel the stress in my heart. What should I do?
Phil, Singapore, March 12, 2009
It has been approx. 2 months that I have had
2 stents inserted with a blockage of 70 - 90%, am currently on Plavix
and Lipitor, symptoms include not as energetic, my left arm, from
my forearm and down, I feel as if someone is applying pressure, A little
tingly, my chest doesn't hurt but I do feel some pressure in middle
of chest. I will be scheduling appointment with Dr. i want to schedule
as
a precaution. Is this normal or should I worry?
Manuel P., San Antonio, Texas, USA, March 11, 2009
Eve -- sorry to hear of your story. Our Forum
Topic, Complications from Catheterization, Angiogram or Angioplasty,
contains stories of others who have experienced femoral access site
complications (currently reported as around 3%) some with extensive bleeding,
such
as yourself. (You might be interested in reading about the alternative
of using the wrist or transradial access site, which has radically reduced
bleeding complications.) Let us know how you fare with the new stents.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 11, 2009
On 10/2/08 I thought I had a bad case of indigestion.
I quickly did some research on the web and determined it was either indigestion
or a heart attack. I drove myself to the nearest emergency, got hooked
up to the monitors and it was determined that I was having a myocardial
infarction. Emergency intervention and an ambulance ride to a different
hospital found me in the cath lab undergoing the stent procedure on a
99% blocked circumflex artery. During the procedure they perforated my
femoral artery and I lost 5 pints of blood. 4 days in ICU - 1 day in
a regular room and I was released from the hospital. I found out that
my LAD also had two blockages (80 & 90% respectively) which were not
addressed at the time of my heart attack. On now what I call "heart bean
soup" I
take numerous medications daily. Recently I underwent the Thallium stress
test since I have been having some difficulty exercising and dealing
with normal every day activities. The stress test showed now abnormalities
with my heart muscle but the EKG was positive for ischemia. My cardiologist
had me get a copy of my CD rom from the procedure in the hospital and
we looked at it together. NOTE: I have never had chest pains, pain radiating
down my arm, etc. - just the horrible indigestion I felt when I had the
heart attack. I have been diagnosed with "silent ischemia" and am now
scheduled to have two additional stents on 4/2/09.
Eve, Petaluma, California, March 10, 2009
SK -- stress can play a large part -- anxiety,
shortness of breath are all related. This is not to say there's no
other problem, but if he has had caths that show the artery open, then
it's
probably not the stent. As for allergic reactions, could possibly
be to the drugs. Is he allergic to metals of any sort? Some studies have
shown the polymer coating on first generation drug-eluting stents
to cause inflammatory responses, but the Endeavor stent actually
has
a very
biocompatible
polymer.
Has
he gotten a second
opinion,
specifically from another interventional cardiologist??
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 3, 2009
My husband had an 80% blockage to LAD. An Endeavor
stent was placed. Since then he has been having shortness of breath and
chest pains. He was sent for
a second opinion. He has had all together 4 caths since Nov 24. The shortness
of breath gets worse. The physicians say that the heart looks fine and we saw
a pulmonologist that says that all pulmonary functions look ok. He is on Plavix
and Lipitor. He tells me that he is dying slowly. I don't know what to do. No
one will listen to us. He is very sick and has been to at least 5 doctors. Any
suggestions?
SK, Canton, Georgia, USA, March 2, 2009
Bill -- see the "stent study" at the top of
the right hand column. Also read our 2005 story, "Drug-Eluting
Stents May Cause Allergic Reactions".
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 27, 2009
In December of 2007 I had a Taxus Express 2
Paclitaxel-Eluting Coronary Stents implanted (2). For the past year
I have developed a severe rash on my entire body and large dark red blotches
on my arms. I am suffering from severe itching and burning. I was taken
off Plavix and Hydrochlorothiazide as a possible cause but to date
have
had no relief. After reading similar postings, I feel that all these
problems are related to the stent implant. My cardiologist disagrees.
I've been to several dermatologists (given creams, cortisone, prednisone)
and am now considering an allergist. The question is what can he do
for me. I'm desperate
for some relief.
Bill, Londonderry, New Hampshire, USA, February 21, 2009
Donna -- everyone reacts differently -- on this
Forum hears mostly from people who are having problems -- remember the
vast majority of patient don't. Sounds like you've suddenly got to make
significant lifestyle changes (diet and heavy smoking) as well as adjusting
to new medications -- not to mention the anxiety of discovering you have
CAD, which is normal. That's a lot to deal with, but get help from friends
and medical professionals (e.g. smoking cessation -- which is VERY important,
but you know that). The stent itself is probably not the cause of these
symptoms. Luckily you did not progress to a heart attack, which means
your heart is working ok, so use this chance to move forward and make
those changes that ultimately will make you feel better. If you continue
to have symptoms, definitely see your cardiologist. You might need to
have your medications adjusted.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 10, 2009
Hello, I underwent a cardiac cath 3 days ago
that resulting in the placement of one drug-eluting stent placed in a
previously 80% blocked artery. I have two
other "minor" blockages that will only be treated via my new medication regimen,
my new diet and the fact that I MUST give up a rather heavy smoking habit. For
the record, I am a 51 year old female. Since the procedure, I am experiencing
mild chest pain on a regular basis that I can only describe as "twinges of pain
and a fluttering-like feeling". I also am experiencing some pain and discomfort
in my left upper arm, shoulder and neck. There has also been some twitching or
spasm on the underside of my forearm about mid-way between the bend of my elbow
and my wrist. I have also had mild headaches, dizziness, some mild nausea and
a few episodes of breaking into a cold, clammy sweat. This is my first stent,
I realize that on am also adjusting to new medications: Plavix, aspirin, Crestor,
Coreg CR, Digoxin....the problem is that I DO NOT KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT TO FEEL,
NOR FOR HOW LONG!! Is the normal, when will it subside???? I do not wish to not
react if I should be reacting, nor do I wish to over-react! Can anyone help out
a fellow panicky person who
is adjusting to CAD??? Much appreciation!
Donna, Maryland, USA, February 2, 2009
following placement of 2 cardiac stents after
some months of what was thought to be reflux pain I am finding the pain
to be more frequent and severe, a burning ache type pain which can come
on at rest or with exercise, only hoping
time will heal.
TT, Australia, January 25, 2009
Arthur -- check out our related topic, "Complications
from Catheterization, Angiogram or Angioplasty" -- you'll find many
patients who have had similar problems at the femoral (groin) access
site -- and some who have suggestions.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 24, 2009
hello i had a stent inserted due to arterial
blockage... after the operation....July 2008.....i was also diagnosed
with PAD..... the problem is.... in the right leg where the femoral
artery was accessed..... i have developed severe pains from the calf
and below
....... particularly while sleeping....... the right foot gets cold...and
severe sharp pains in the foot awaken me.... also when i walk..i develop
pains and need to rest my leg after walking a couple of hundred feet......
i had none of this before the femoral incision and stent placement...
any help
you can offer me would be greatly appreciated... thank you
Arthur Dinkel, Denville, New Jersey, USA, January 21, 2009
Wow I just found this site...I'm not crazy.
I have complained to my Dr. every year for the last three years at my
yearly exam about weird chest pain but the EKG was negative Then in May
2008 I went to a cardiologist and a hour later I'm in the hospital getting
a stent. Everything written on this site is true ...I have weird pain
in chest Dr.s looks at me like I'm nuts. Shoulder pain at times. Heavy
breathing at times, bleeding from nose, The list goes on and I'm sick
of it. Wife is in her own world and has turned against me and has become
anorexic. Don't eat this Don't eat that. Exercise ....if I get on a machine
the way I feel It will be the last thing I do. Do Dr.s know about this
stuff? and not saying anything. or do they just don't know what's going
on! What do I do?
What do I do? Living in fear. Help.
George L., Clinton Corners, New York, USA, January 19, 2009
I'm a 48-year old male diabetic who suffered
a heart attack early Jan 2009, and had 1 stent inserted. My anxiety is
not as bad as in the first few days after the procedure, but I continue
to experience some chest discomfort in the area of the pectoral muscles
on and off during the day, & a weakness in my left arm. Am on Plavix,
Bilicor, and Ecotrin (aspirin). Also Simvastatin for
cholesterol.
MT, Johannesburg, South Africa, January 14, 2009
5 stents 12 months ago and still have chest
pain. Shortness of breath
everyday. Is it common? I am 47 years old.
Steve, Napa, California, USA, January 11, 2009
Hi, I'm 46 years old female. I had 2 stents
placed 2 days ago (1/09/09) one in the RCA (80%) which already had
4 stents in it and a small stent placed in the Circumflex (90%) Since
then
I'm feeling a new feeling of tightness in the chest almost like if
you were getting a chest cold. Now it's hard to take a deep breath that
heavy
/tight feeling. With no wheezing at this time. I've also have had slight
right jaw pain which is one of the signs that got me in the hospital
to begin with, this started as I was coming up the 6 steps to enter
my house after leaving the hospital and a pain between my shoulder blades
which was there before I had the stents the same pain I'm hoping maybe
it is something else and maybe it is. The heaviness/tightness started
during the night I woke up trying to get my breath. Can anyone relate
to these same signs??
Brenda J. , Maryland, USA, January 11, 2009
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