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Heart Attack and Stents or Angioplasty

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Post experience with or questions about the use of stents and emergency angioplasty to treat a heart attack (AMI or acute myocardial infarction).

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Current Postings on This Page (158):

• A heart attack results when the blood supply to the heart muscle is abruptly cut off due to a blockage in the arteries that supply blood the heart, and this results in damage to the heart muscle and subsequent disruption in the normal functioning of the heart. A heart attack can be STEMI, NSTEMI, or Unstable Angina which fall under the umbrella of Acute Coronary Syndrome. The primary aim of treatment of a heart attack or myocardial infarction is to restore blood flow to the heart as early as possible to prevent further damage to the heart muscle, and restore its normal functioning. It is observed that the greater the muscle damage, the more likely is the recovery time, and the greater the risk of complications and fatal outcomes. The most commonly done procedure for this treatment when required is an angioplasty which removes the block, in some cases a stent needs to be put in place to prevent the artery from collapsing on itself. In cases where the block cannot be cleared with an angioplasty a CABG or coronary artery bypass grafting procedure is done, especially when there is significant block in 2 or more main arteries, or a complete block of the LAD artery.
Skedoc, Hyderabad, India, August 26, 2022

• Hi all,I had a heart attack in October 2015 whilst working in Fiji. I want to talk about the symptoms I had in the hope that this may help other women. Pre heart attack I experienced heavy burping and a burning pain in the centre of my chest. I had had these symptoms for 3 months off and on and finally went to the doctor. The Dr said I had "heart burn" and proscribed Somac. That night I had the heart attack. Fast forward to October 2021. Again I had a burning pain in my chest when I went 120 beats per minute which stopped when my heart rate went down. Went to the Dr "oh you have heart burn". No I said its something more. Finally got the Dr to refer me to Cardiologist. 2 x 90% blockages and 1 x 85%. Stints done on November 1st. If I hadnt insisted it was more I could have been dead now. Dont take NO for an answer. You know your body!!
Fiona from Australia, Western Australia, December 2, 2021

• For those of you trying to stop smoking. Get the book by Allen Carr called "easy ways to stop smoking". It works!!!!I smoked 40 a day for 41years. I had one heart attack in 2015, still couldnt quit. Had 3 stents put in in October2021 after dr found 2 x 90% blockages and 1 x 85% blockage. I had already started reading the book. Finished the book and walked away from smoking.
Fiona from Australia, Western Australia, December 2, 2021

• Vascepa is a miracle drug proven to reduce cv events in those taking statins.
Newbee, Cardio, Canada, March 20, 2021

• My husband presented to the emergency department with a heart attack, but due to the "on Call" Cardiologist being unavailable, at a ball game...he had to wait hours to get treatment ordered. How can I determine and document the impact of that delay of treatment? His Nurse was appalled by the physician's response, and literally had to threaten him to get him to come in...and, again, that resulted in hours of delay of treatment...and my concern is that my husband experienced additional damage to his heart due to that delay. Is there any test or labs that can show the added damage due to delay of treatment?
Dawn, New Jersey, USA, January 28, 2021

• Sir my brother got heart attack 10day before 90% lad no thrumbus distal artery good size and his age is 30 year doctor advice ring please help me what can we do?
ascc, sgfss, INDIA, February 26, 2015

• My 59yr old husband had a quadruple bypass and had a pigs valve put in in Feb 2014. He recovered from surgery within weeks, but he said he didn't feel any better than before the surgery. He didn't have any chest pains b4 or after the surgery. He died 8 months later from occlusion of two remote coronary artery bypass grafts hypertensive cardiovascular disease. That is what death certificate says. He did not have high blood pressure, or diabetes. He was a smoker but quit for two months after surgery then was smoking 1/2pk day. I had him on a cardiac diet and he was getting lots of exercise from his job. Is this normal?
Ms. Dawn, Mississippi, USA, February 12, 2015

• An 83 year old male patient with no medical history had a sudden silent acute anterior wall myocardial infarction. There was no signs of MI. On a routine ESG it was diagnosed. After 3 days of admission in icu there was no relevant finding of recurrance n so patient discharged. Is there need of angioplasty?
Swati Maheshwari, private hospital, Udaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA, February 7, 2015

• I have to talk to someone about my 65-year-old, non-smoking, non-drinking brother's heart attack seven weeks ago. He is still alive and In the hospital but his progress is so slow and it is impossible to help him. He has had numerous complications from the heart attack, then stent of the left main descending artery. His kidneys failed and he is on dialysis. His anxiety is being treated with strong anti-psychotics and now he cannot communicate. Feeding tube now being tried but he won't tolerate it. How long can he live? What else is there to do for him, we wonder.
Maryb, Michigan, USA, November 26, 2014

• Concerned Son in Pakistan - All the vital signs you've noted sound good but, as we state on every page, "The Forum is not an "ask-a-doctor" service; we do not dispense medical advice about a patient's specific situation." You should discuss your father's clinical picture with his cardiologist so that you understand his status, what he needs to do, etc. Especially with your knowledge of the body, we're sure you can be a major help to him in his recovery.

Also, a note to many of the posters on this topic. Please read the above. We cannot answer patient-specific questions. Most often these need to be asked of your cardiologist. If you aren't getting good answers, try getting a second opinion from another MD. The purpose of these Forums is for patients and others to share information with each other, not for us to dispense medical advice in place of a medical doctor. Thanks.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, August 23, 2014

• I want to discuss my father case in detail with you is there any way for this? 6 months back he had extensive anterior wall STEMI got PCI to LAD (Bio resorbable stent) and now feeling normal with EF 45 % and BP is 125/80 but PCI done after 5 days and thrombolytic therapy occurred with in 2 hours of his severe pain and best medical treatment has given to him. I want to discuss his ECG and echo with you and doctors opinion. I would be thankful for your this cooperation. I also want to discuss about scarring of heart muscle which I hear a lot and worried about that? And is meant by that doctor said there is marked clinical improvement in his heart and ECG also improved markedly I am physiotherapist so you can easily discuss with me in medical terms Best Regards
Concerned Son, Pakistan, August 23, 2014

• My mother had an heart attack in 2009 and stunts were set up ..now EF of the heart is 35% and diabetic but blood pressure is normal these days...however it is affecting kidneys and creatine level is 3.5 now and recently blood was infected and as per doctor it is urine infection but she is unable to eat anything and vomiting whole day. Chest x ray has been done nothing is dere..what should we do now ???
Varun C., Women and Child Ministry, Delhi, India , July 29, 2014

• I am 67 year old man living in Southport. It appears that I had a heart attack in Sept. 2013, Southport hospital treated me for a chest infection. Went back to A&E 3 times I could only sleep sitting up. Had an echo scan eventually on the 2nd Jan. 2014.Sent to Liverpool Heart hospital, had an angio and a MRI scan, and then was told I had a blocked artery to the left ventricle,They said it was not possible to perform a by-pass to restore the blood supply. I have not been given a medical reason for this. As I have heard that a by-pass months after a heart attack has caused the heart muscle to regenerate in some cases. I would like to hear your views on this
D Mulholland, Retired Engineer, Southport, Merseyside, England, July 24, 2014

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reducing steps of heart attack, education, Karnataka, India, June 30, 2014

• I'm a 61 year old female. I had one stent placed Tuesday last week, another Thursday. The first to open 100% blockage, the second 92% block. I experienced an anxiety attack during both. I didn't feel nervous starting out. I even tried to watch the monitor to see what was happening. Then I panicked and couldn't keep my legs still. I was holding one foot on top of the other and being told to stay still, but I couldn't. When I felt like my arms were going to start flaying I told him to stop and give me something. I was given morphine. The next time I kept my eyes closed hoping that would help. Near the end I panicked again, and felt like I was having a bigger heart attack. It was too close to the end for them to give me anything, but it scared me and I pray no damage was done to my heart. Has anyone experienced this?
Jollyjw, Jersey City, New Jersey, USA, June 30, 2014

• Hey, I'm Sejol , my bro expired a few days ago due to MI (heart attack). It was a 1 stroke attack. He was 22 years old , one day at around 11 o clock he had a minor chest pain but he drank a glass of water a had a walk a felt better but on same day again at 3 o clock he had again chest pain and he went to hospital and while the doctors were taking his ECG he expired . He had no blockages but still he had an attack , he just had a bad habit of smoking. What exactly might have happened, what may be the reason of MI? Please ans. asap please?
Sejol, India, June 11, 2014

• My dad had a heart stroke because of blockage in LCX territory (96%). Main artery is around 60% block. His EF % was 48% after attack. Doctors said no need to go for any operation as LCX territory only provides blood to a smaller portion. I want to know is this true. Are there any chances of getting attack again. Doctor said that this will not be life threatening. Please help me out with your advice. he is 52 year old with no other disease. He quit smoking after the attack.
Sunny, Punjab, India, June 11, 2014

• Sam in India and Sarika in Australia - see our Forum Topic, "Not Feeling Well After Stenting."
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 10, 2014

• My husband is 38 and had heart attack 7 months ago, followed by 1 stent placed in 70% blocked LAD. Now he is on his medication but he still gets heart burn feeling or pain in chest. Though frequency of pain reduced significantly after he started having anti depression medication as cardiologists assumed it was anxiety attack instead. But minimum twice a week , he still suffers chest pain which gets worse if he is upset or sad. Please advise
Sarika, Australia, June 5, 2014

• I am 34 Done with Angioplasty. 3 months ago . I feel some pain some time in my chest But it become normal after some time .Do i need to worry. I do regular walk and take medicines Is the pain normal?
Sam, abb, Pune, India, May 27, 2014

• Chetan - Very sorry for your loss. Certainly not possible for anyone to comment intelligently on your question without complete medical records. Sounds like a complicated situation. Was there any discussion of aortic valve insufficiency? If her valve was not functioning properly (and the low pulse rate might have been a signal) a sudden influx of blood flow could overwhelm the valve.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 27, 2014

• Dear sir i am from India. My grandmother (75 years old) died of heart attack after angioplasty and stenting procedure. hospital charged huge bill and doctor explained that procedure failed because pulse rate was very low around 20 and due to acidolysis. yr grandmother could not withstand sudden flow of blood after stenting. Before performing stenting and doctor said she would be fine after stenting procedure but within 20-30 minutes our consent to perform stenting procedure, doctor said it is difficult to save her. and after 2 hrs of efforts in vain doctor declared her dead. i suspect doctor advised us wrongly and implanted stent wrongly even he knew that she would not survive just to give us inflated bill. My question is whether angioplasty and stenting be performed when pulse rate is very low around 20 and under the condition of acidolysis for elderly person.
Chetan, India, May 26, 2014

• I'm being told my husband needs angioplasty as well as a bypass for blockage. Why both?
Misty, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, May 23, 2014

• Didi in South Africa - Have you consulted a cardiologist? There are other more specific tests that ought to be done. ECG and X-rays are not very specific for coronary artery disease, especially if the ECG is being done when you're not having these symptoms. As you may have guessed, first recommendation, after making an appointment, is to stop smoking. It's hard to do, but maybe your doctor can help you with this. Smoking is a very definite risk factor for heart disease.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 14, 2014

• Hi I may or may not have had an heart attack,but as I am not a doctor I want to ask you guys if this sounds kinda familiar...In my family (genetics) my father got a lot of heart attacks and died of a serious one this is one of the reasons why I am unsure. I stay with my mum and aunt (Last person also has heart problems)I am under a lot of stress lately. And I am a smoker. A week back I had heart palpitations and cramps in the middle of my chest. My aunt gave me 2 pills which helps her and after an half hour it stopped. Now this weekend Friday I had these same symptoms but worse it was also above and next to my left breast and in my left arm well me thinking those 2 pills will help again asked for it and took it and lied down on my right-hand side but after an hour it did not stop but besides I would try and sleep. Half past one I woke up I was terribly thirsty so I tried standing up only to find my left arm unusable- like sleeping and sore next to my left breast under my underarm. the next 3days I still have the same symptoms including fatigue. And trouble falling asleep. I have gone 4 a ECG and x-ray of my chest but the doctor says I am fine. Question is what's up then with the pain. I would be glad to hear your point of view.
Didi, personal, parys, Freestate, South Africa, May 6, 2014

• BO in Australia - genetic diagnostics is becoming a very big and important field. Dr. Eric Topol, who we've interviewed, is one of the leading cardiologists in this area.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 2, 2014

• Two brothers, both fit and regularly exercising, low cholesterol, good blood pressure, no known family history. 45 year old CHD mild heart attack three years ago. Younger brother 46 CHD severe heart attack (recovered after 20 minutes) a few days ago. What are the chances? Anyone out there doing gene checking?
BO, Brisbane, Australia, April 22, 2014

• Shivam - one of the big "pros" for bioabsorbable stents is that after a certain time, the patient doesn't need to take the antiplatelet medicine to prevent clots inside the stent, usually clopidogrel. But there are other medications that treat heart disease, blood pressure, etc. that are part of dealing with this chronic condition. You should consult with your doctor and learn what each medicine does and why it's important to take it.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 14, 2014

• hi i m 31 year old i m suffering from high blood pressure since 5-6 years but usually i didn't take any medicine , this 15 march 2014 i got heart attack they told acute MI, and 100% blockage they put two stent ,i think bioabsorbable stent,unlike permanent stents, they begin to gradually disappear as the artery wall absorbs them. so i wanna know do i still need to take medicine for entire life ? or i can discontinue after a certain period of time
Shivam, Delhi, India, April 6, 2014

• We'd have to comment on the post below about Danshen. While it is being looked at in a preliminary trial, it is most definitely NOT FDA-approved for the treatment of heart disease, or any disease that we know of. As for healing heart damage, we wish that were true, but there's nothing we know of that can reverse the damage done to heart muscle. What is very important for patients to know is that you need to let your doctor know if you are taking herbal supplements or nutraceuticals, because they can react with medications that are being prescribed.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 2, 2014

• For anyone with hard to treat heart conditions & past or at risk stroke, sharing this natural healing medicine. Its as sensible as the benefits of apple a day & a well balanced diet. I was concerned at first, but realized how many times it saved my life and improved heart functioning. Its a root called Fu fang dan shen. FDA approved!! Helps acute chest pain, shortness of breathe as a natural nitroglycerin. It has aided in healing and recovery from heart damage so much that myself and others have been able stop using walker and get through short of breathe because it does assist circulation. http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-931-DANSHEN.aspx?activeIngredientId=931&activeIngredientName=DANSHEN Danshen appears to thin the blood by preventing platelet and blood clotting. It also causes blood vessels to widen, and this can improve circulation. Take care.
Blood flow improvement heart muscle, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA, March 26, 2014

• i thought i had bad heart burn or indigestion went to ER. My EKG was good & my blood was good. they decided to keep me for observation room in 3 hrs my enzymes started to go up & next day 90% blockage 5 stents. I was scheduled to fly out 2 days later. If on a plane i would not be telling this story.
Barbara, Gainesville, Florida, USA, March 25, 2014

• Hi ..My mother age 57 got heart attack on Jan 2014 and she was hospitalized at right time. from doctor we came to know it was 95% block and very next day we did angio and fixed 1 stent as per doctor advise .after this surgery she got vomiting for 2 weeks and she could take her food properly and she consulted same doctor and later she was fine. two weeks latter she got dry cough for 1 week and we consulted a specialist cardio doctor at multicare hospital with all ECG and other test and they have provide syrup for dry cough.4 days back she felt some thing wrong and we rushed to a hospital. her pulse got low and she passed away on the way.:(.still we didn't know the exact reason for her problem
Vijai, Madurai, TN, India, March 21, 2014

• My father had his first heart attack 8 years ago n had 3 stunts because of blockage. Yesterday afternoon he had a severe heart attack and we rushed him to hospital and the doctors gave him life saving injection and cleared the clot. Doc will have biopsy on Sunday 23rd March 14 I need your urgent help that in his case what can be the best option if there is blockage in the old stents, or what could be the other situation and what is the best solution. Is it to put a stent Again or heart surgery. Please evaluate the possibilities and solutions. Please help
Ali-DxB, individual, Dubai, March 21, 2014

• Ms. Dixie - Diabetics are at increased risk of heart disease, which your borther definitely has. With two totally blocked arteries, post-surgery (we assume you're talking about bypass grafts?) he is at even more risk, since the disease process has continued. Whether or not stenting can provide benefit is something his cardiologist would need to discuss with him. Maybe if you go with him to an appointment, you can help him understand better what his options are and what will happen if he doesn't take some actions.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 1, 2014

• My brother age 71 has had 3 heart surgeries. Has type 2 diabetes. Does not take his meds for his diabetes and found out his arteries are blocked. One is 100 percent and another 98 percent. His options are try a stent, probably will die on table or get his diabetes under control, which he will not do. Will he have a major heart attack when the other artery closes. Don't know how to talk to him about what to do
Ms. Dixie, sister, Burson, California, USA, February 26, 2014

• My father suffered several heart attack in 2005 and angiogram revealed 99% blocked LAD. 2 stents were placed in his heart. The doctors told us that attack has caused severe loss of heart muscles resulting in reduced pumping capacity. The EF last reported in ECHO was 27%. we went to the doctor recently and he told us that the pumping rate has reduced substantially. Please advise what are our options, what medical treatments are suggested for such cases- I am not sure Pacemakers or bypass (doc told this is not an option).
Nitin D., Delhi, India, February 10, 2014

• Apara48 - The troponin levels in the blood can indicate whether or not there has been an infarction. It's possible for a small infarction to have occurred and not have done much damage to the heart, so the patient may feel fine. The chest pains may also have been angina, but no infarct (heart attack) has yet occurred. Of course, the pains could be from something else. Your father's doctors should be able to tell if there are cardiac issues and make appropriate recommendations
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 17, 2014

• My father complained of chest pain last evening and admitted to hospital last night. He is kept in ICU. He is diabetic from last more than 20 years. However, we annually do full body checkup and last one we did was in August 2013. Nothing related cardiac was found positive. He is nonsmoker, slim, occasional drinker. He is generally very particular about what he eats and the quantity and maintains a good health at the age 72. Today, he says he is feeling absolutely fine. However, doctors say it can be heart attack. They are doing some tests and nothing is concluded as of now. Is it possible for a person who had heart attack yesterday can feel fine next day morning?
Apara48, India, January 14, 2014

• Amit, Hi! You've posted to a topic about heart attack. Did your mother suffer a heart attack? In any case, the heart muscle needs oxygen to pump correctly. Narrowed arteries restrict blood flow, which reduces oxygen to the heart. But tuberculosis also causes less oxygen to be made avaiilable, so yes. TB can affect the heart's efficiency (i.e. ejection fraction or EF). But this is a complicated medical situation and needs the best opinion of her doctors.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 19, 2013

• hi I'm Amit. 4 months back, my mother has been caught by severe pneumonia, which is cured by doctors. Now my mother has been detected with low EF i.e. 35%. she has also detected with TB. Is any relation between all these three diseases. how the medical treatment should be go on. will doctor should first cure TB. and then low EF. or both treatment should go simultaneously. doctor has told me that TB has effected the heart of my mother. that's why she has low EF. and EF could be improved if TB will be cured.
Guffy, Pathankot, Punjab, India, July 19, 2013

• Victoria in New Jersey - Sorry for your loss. Sometimes angina and the symptoms of a heart attack can feel like a severe stomach upset or pain, so that's definitely a possibility. By the way, did you father get any stents? We also would point out for the benefit of all reading this that smoking is a very clear undisputed risk factor for coronary artery disease, especially in someone who has already suffered a heart attack; stopping smoking should be the very first thing that patients do when they make lifestyle changes to lower their risk for heart disease. We wish more cardiologists would provide sufficient help and therapy (medical and otherwise) for their patients to aid them in smoking cessation.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 1, 2013

• My father had a minor heart attack I would say around 7 years ago. The doctors said he had to have stents put in his heart to prevent future heart attacks. They told him he needed to lose weight and try to quit smoking. Beings he had 4 children, he wanted to be around for a long time. He also had type 2 diabetes. He lost about 50-60 lbs. and was feeling better than ever! In 2009, he was still smoking but looked and felt better than ever! Unfortunately and unexpectedly, my dad passed away in November of 2009. Doctors did not perform an autopsy due to his prior heart attack. Friends say he complained of severe stomach pain all day, but showed no signs of a heart attack. Did my father pass from a cardiac arrest, like doctors think? Or could something else have happened?
Victoria, New Jersey, USA, July 1, 2013

• Krissyana -- Very sorry to hear about your father. Clearly you have the risk factor of family history. But that's just one risk factor. We wouldn't panic (stress is definitely a risk factor in itself), but we would recommend seeing a cardiologist to learn about your current clinical status, your important numbers, like blood pressure, cholesterol, lipids, etc. Then work together with your cardiologist to lower all modifiable risk factors that you can (diet, exercise, smoking, etc.) and take whatever medications he/she may prescribe. Also educate yourself about coronary artery disease and its symptoms. You may not have it, but you can also be assured that treatment of this disease has come a long way, both medical treatment and, if you have more serious disease, interventional treatment with angioplasty and stents. And be aware that in the case of a heart attack, very early treatment with angioplasty (within 90 minutes of symptoms) can stop the event in its tracks.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 20, 2013

• Am I going to die? Hi... I'm really scared right now on the 15th of Feb. this year.. my 59 year old father died from a massive heart attack...he was on meds, he gave up his car, bought a bike and rode everywhere for exercise, didn't drink or smoke and ate healthy foods and it didn't help at all. My father's granddad died from a heart attack at 49; my father's father died from a heart attack in his early 50's; my fathers sister suffered a massive heart attack 5 years ago and survived...and now my father has had one and died. I feel like i have been given a death sentence. I am a single mom with 2 daughters.. i don't want to die. Am i going to?
krissyana, Los Angeles, California, USA, April 18, 2013

• Mohamed in Kenya -- The role of stress in heart disease is the topic of several studies. More attention is being paid to the physiological influences of the brain and nervous system. One example, U.S.-based Dr. Dean Ornish, who has fashioned a well-known diet, also includes meditation and interaction with a community of friends as an integral part of therapy for coronary artery disease.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 30, 2013

• Just got a DES on Feb 3rd, 2013 after a major heart attack where, my doctor says, I lost 85% use of my heart, apparently, from the first echo-cardiogram. Feel like a twelve year-old suddenly in terms of feeling fresh in comparison to the broadly debilitating symptoms running up to the attack (I'm 57). I believe my attack (LAD) came from environmental and personal stress. My question: When I get suddenly angry (which I have been doing) I get a pain in the chest. Does that cause stress that can it lead to restenosis because pressure causes the stent to scar the artery again? Could be hypochondria but just making sure.
Mohamed, Self-employed, Nairobi, Kenya, March 12, 2013

• Thank you for your condolences. My husband had high blood pressure, which was medicated and under control but no other symptoms. He was re-assured by his doctor that everything was fine with his heart and there was no requirement for further tests. He had no other symptoms or cause for concern and went back to full training. How far should you go for re-assurance that your heart is fine, if the tests you have been referred for by your doctor are clear? When do you stop looking? And should we not be able to trust the tests we are sent for?
Heart broken, Perth, Australia, February 15, 2013

• Heart broken in Australia -- We are truly sorry for your loss. While stress echocardiograms can reveal problems and are pretty good first level tests, they are known to give both false positives and false negatives, especially regarding coronary artery disease (narrowing of the arteries). Tim Russert, the American newscaster who hosted "Meet The Press, also passed a stress echo only months before he died of a massive heart attack. But put together with the 0% calcium score (and Russert's was not low) a doctor might reasonably tend not to probe further, unless there were other concerns or risk factors such as symptoms, strong family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc. One question is why was your husband having these tests to begin with? Was he having symptoms of any sort? One non-invasive test that might have shown more would have been a Cardiac CT. This is different from a CT scan-all (we assume that this is a name for a "full body CT scan" which isn't really that useful in targeting coronary artery disease). A Cardiac CT specially images the heart and arteries in great detail; it also requires the use of a contrast dye IV injection -- which is why it is able to visualize narrowings in the artery. Studies have shown Cardiac CT to be 98-99% negative predictive, meaning that if it doesn't show a problem, there is none. And it would be hard to imagine that a Cardiac CT would miss a 90% blockage. The only other test would be an invasive angiogram, done via catheterization. A final thought is that a heart attack can be caused by an eruption of lipid-rich "vulnerable" plaque; this is where there is a thin-capped atheroma inside the wall lining of the artery. When the cap ruptures, this material is flushed into the bloodstream and begins rapidly to form a clot or thrombus, causing a complete blockage of the artery and heart attack. "Vulnerable" plaque is difficult to image, even with an invasive angiogram, because it is usually not obstructive. We hope this helps. Again, our sympathies to you and your family.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 15, 2013

• My husband who was 49 died four weeks ago from a massive heart attack, he was incredibly fit and slim, did not smoke or drink. He did have slightly high blood pressure. Nine months ago he had a Stress Echo cardiogram and a CT scan-all tests were negative, with a 0% calcium score. The autopsy showed 90% narrowing of the LAD and 50% of the other. How could the tests not have shown this and what more could he have done?
Heart broken, Perth, Australia, February 14, 2013

• Jewell in Texas -- The symptoms you have reported are pretty classic symptoms of a possible heart attack or unstable angina. We would recommend calling your doctor ASAP and telling him/her these symptoms. Let them know it's urgent. Or go to the emergency room. There's more info in our article, "Surviving Heart Attack: Get Me To The Door On Time!"
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 11, 2013

• I am a 42 yr old woman with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, I take 3 blood pressure meds to keep my blood pressure under control. At 3am this morning was awoke from sleep with pain in the right shoulder arm and breast, nausea and some shortness of breath lasted about 5 mins and then went away, but as come back several times and the pain is bad. I am adopted and so have no family history to relate to. I am concerned that I might be having a heart attack.
Jewell, Amarillo, Texas, USA, February 11, 2013

• Vaibhav -- it's really not possible to give this type of advice long distance. The questions are how much damage did your father's heart suffer (what is his ejection fraction) and is he stable? The question of opening up the second blockage is one best decided on by his cardiologist.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 17, 2013

• Hi, I am Vaibhav from India..I am in a tensed situation here..my father may be around 52-54 years of age had a silent heart attack yesterday night (he is diabetic and doctors and medical websites say diabetic patients usually suffer from silent heart attacks)..he became conscious after a few minutes and himself went to the hospital..he was diagnosed with a major heart attack with around 100% blockage in 1 of the arteries,and 80-85% blockage in another artery..the doctor did angioplasty in the 100% blocked artery and says he will be made stable after 3 days..actually in India it's all about money..we bought a package of 1 artery and another one would be of the same costs which will be done after 2 or 3 days or after has condition is made stable.I just want you to ask that if we discharge him and take it to the another hospital after his condition gets stable, will there be a risk of another heart attack during the shifting time..I am in a very pathetic situation..pls tell me your opinion ASAP
Vaibhavj96, Ghaziabad, U.P., India, January 11, 2013

• As in India -- We seen reports of more than 20. But this is not normal and there are definite issues when a patients gets what's been referred to as a "full metal jacket."

And Chest Pain in Bangladesh -- your mother should see her cardiologist about these symptoms. They may be related to medications, or stress -- but you'd also want to rule out a reclosure.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, December 22, 2012

• How many stents can be put in a patient?
As, Delhi, India, December 21, 2012

• hi,my mother had gone through PTCA,stent on the LAD having 99% blockage 3 weeks back. She is taking medications as per doc advice,having Atorvastatin, clopidogrel, nidocard rtd 2.6 mg, disprin, Ramipril. Recently she is having slight chest pain and sometimes heavy breathing. I want to know, is it normal? What should i do now? Pls suggest me. I am tensed for this. Thanks
chest pain after stenting, Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 4, 2012

• Heart disease is on my mother's side of the family,three of her brothers died from heart disease before the age of 50. I suffered a massive heart attack myself at the age of 45, luckily for me and my family I managed to survive that trauma. My brother Paddy who is a year younger than me has had a heart attack also,luckily he is still with us. We have done a lot of research into heart disease and the causes , we have discovered an amino acid called L-Arginine which is critical to the blood flow in your arteries. Myself and my two brothers have been taking a product called cardio for life~(it helps produce nitric oxide) for three years now. What has happened is our arteries are now clear of plaque and biologically younger than our actual ages. This is all thanks to Dr Ignarro a scientist who was awarded the Nobel laurate in 1998 for his discovery that L-Arginine produces nitric oxide which is the engine that drives the blood around our arteries. We do get nitric oxide from our foods,however as we age our bodies can't produce as much nitric oxide. This will lead to hardened arteries and perhaps a heart or stroke. For more info http://mycardioforlife.com/fd57
finty57, fintan duggan, Rosslare, Ireland, November 18, 2012

• Bella in Australia -- See if his doctor can prescribe a smoking cessation program and/or nicotine patch or other medication. Smoking is a high risk factor for heart disease (and many other diseases, as well). It is also an addiction and people trying to stop really need help and assistance to do so successfully.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, October 20, 2012

• My husband had 6 stents put in about 6 years ago during/post hard attack. He didn't do cardio rehab, has ITP and recently MGUS. He still smokes and doesn't exercise much. I'm trying to locate stats on life expectancy - around likelihood of 2nd heart attack / average life expectancy post stenting - principally to give myself something tangible to resolve my anxiety / encourage healthier behaviour. Can you assist?
Bella, Australia, October 10, 2012

• I have an heart attack 4 years ago , and two stent were place now my cholesterol level is total 136 / LDL 71 / HDL 49 / trichelates 77 , I am taking x- plended 2.5 mg and lowplat plus 75 mg , how long i have to take medicine.
heart attack, Karachi, Pakistan, September 13, 2012

• Shekhar in India -- Whether or not a stent is necessary is a highly debated topic, but there are specific guidelines established. Was your mother given a nuclear stress test prior to the angiogram to verify if she was suffering from ischemia (lack of oxygen to heart muscle due to narrowing in the artery)? An 80% blockage is significant, especially in the LAD. Often patients experience various pains for a short while after angioplasty (see "Not Feeling Well After Angioplasty") but that tends to go away.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, September 8, 2012

• My Mother suffered a Heart Attack on 02-08-2012. Successful Thrombolysis was done and doctors say that the attack was reverted and their is no damage to the heart. Angiogram was performed on 31st August, 2012 and 80% blockage was found in LAD. Doctors suggested for angioplasty and one stent was placed. However, immediately after coming out of cath lab my mother complained about the chest pain. Immediately they performed the angiogram and informed that everything is alright. I doubt whether angioplasty was necessary at all? Whether the chest pain was another attack? What i should do now?
Shekhar, India, September 2, 2012

• 49 yr old male. NO SYMPTOMS of heart disease. Mild variation in Treadmill test made doctor schedule Angiogram. Angio found 3 critical(above 90%) blocks in LAD, CX and another artery. CABG followed immediately. It was surprising that this happened to my father who had no problems with cholesterol, diabetes or any diet-related issues. Prior to the Angiogram, there was nothing to indicate that he had heart disease. Are there other cases like this? I would like to know how often the disease is asymptomatic. P. S. My father is a vegetarian. He was on a low oil diet for almost a year. He does not smoke or drink alcohol.
keyree10, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, August 8, 2012

• I'm 28 and had a massive heart attack a year ago today. I had fours stents placed. One in my LAD and three in my RCA. My main concern I have is recurring palpitations that are sometimes followed by pain or occur with pain involved. They come and go and there frequency varies quite a bit. Any insight into this or suggestion would be greatly appreciated.
JFinKY, Maysville, Kentucky, USA, August 2, 2012

• My father was diagnosed with congenital heart failure and was told he only has 19% of his heart working. Surgery in the Philippines is very expensive and the doctor was not sure how many stents they might have to put in. Is it worth having the stents on? Will that really help to keep him alive? Or is it just as risky? He has all the vices too that's why i am not sure if the treatment will be worth it. But I just don't want to watch him drift away. Is there anything else we can try doing? Should he get a 2nd opinion? Thank you very much.
Heart Attack, New York, New York, USA, August 1, 2012

• Ia in Tbilisi -- Without specific information on where the blockage was, precisely how it was treated, etc. it's hard to say what exactly happened. But we'd encourage you to discuss this with the cardiologist(s) who did the procedures, so you have a better idea of the status of your mother's health. Rarely, a heart attack can occur during a diagnostic cath. Why it occurred is the question. It may be that a blood clot formed. Antiplatelet/antithrombotic drugs are normally given to prevent this, but a person who has just had a heart attack tends to be more "thrombogenic" -- more prone to clotting. Four stents at a time in the same artery is a lot, but the blockage may have been very long. Multiple and/or overlapping stents in an artery is a risk factor for restenosis and/or thrombosis, so make sure your mother stays compliant with her medications, especially the antiplatelet meds (aspirin, Plavix, Effient, or similar) and does whatever else she can to slow down the progression of disease (stop smoking, stay active, lose weight if necessary, etc.)
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 20, 2012

• Hello, my mum had a heart attack in June, her symptoms were a very strong pain in the chest and then she lost feelings in her left arm, sweating and she fainted, she was taken in a hospital after one hour and half and after all she was feeling very well the second day her doctor was going to send her at home but before they decided to make a coronarographie to check what was damaged after the heart attack and while they were doing the coronarographie she suddenly had another heart attack so the doctors had to do stent and on her left main artery they put four stents at a time. I am wondering was her first "heart attack" actually a heart attack because she was feeling absolutely perfect on following day and have you ever heard bout a heart attack during the coronarographie? and how often does it happen to have a four stent at a time in one artery. Is it possible that they have done the coronarography too soon after the first "heart attack"? how high is her chance to happen it again? thank you very much
Ia, Tbilisi, Georgia, July 20, 2012

• Went to hospital in Kelowna B.C.. Suffering from heart attack, after routine ECG while on stretcher in hall, rushed to ER cubicle and 14 minutes later was in cath lab and received angioplasty and stent. In CICU for 2 nights then regular cardiac unit many tests released from hospital with virtually no heart damage. Had a 100% blockage of my left aorta. Life saving priceless. Bill zero.
Lynn, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, July 18, 2012

• Norma in Zimbabwe -- No insurance is always a problem, since these tests and procedures are expensive items. Has your husband had a perfusion stress test (sometimes called Thallium or nuclear stress test) to see if there is a deficit in the amount of blood/oxygen reaching the heart muscle? This is non-invasive and would give more evidence that there are blockages in the coronary arteries. The next step would be an angiogram/possible angioplasty to relieve these symptoms, if they are being cuased by a blockage.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 17, 2012

• My husband had mild attack 3 years ago he is on various heart medications, his health continues to get worse days where he is extremely weak, always has shortness of breath cannot work, sleeps a lot is always tired. Our Dr has recommended we go to South Africa for an angiogram etc. He refuses because we have no medical aid and cannot afford the costs. What is his long term prognosis. He was also diagnosed 18 months ago jaundice like symptoms tumor on head of the pancreas had a bypass. Tumor is cancer but seems to be doing well. Any response would be much appreciated.
Norma, Harare, Zimbabwe, July 13, 2012

• Andrew - London. Many thanks to you for your reply. I can confirm that I had not experienced chest pain and angina never established. I have since had my Angiogram and looks good. Diagnostic Angio + LV gram no PCI. Minor irregularities only, LVEDP 14mm HG. I had a vasovagal episode on return to ward and placed on IV fluids. Discharged with palpable haematoma in RFA and advised to keep an eye on and return if problem. So seemingly the above is all cool. thank you
Andrew - London, London UK, July 10, 2012

• Andrew in London -- Your post below is a bit off-topic, since you have not had a heart attack. That being said, we're curious if you are experiencing any symptoms of angina? We'd suggest that you read over our section on Fractional Flow Reserve, another way to measure whether or not a lesion is actually limiting the blood flow (and oxygen) to your heart. While the perfusion testing showed mild ischemia, it's possible that the blockage is not really problematic (and, if it isn't, should be left alone). On the other hand, if the plaque seen on the CT angiogram IS limiting blood flow, it may be therapeutic to do the angioplasty. BTW, at the top of this page, you'll see a picture of Adolph Bachmann, the first angioplasty patient, who was 37 when he had the procedure in 1977. He's been active and productive ever since!
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 4, 2012

• hi 41 year old ex smoker for ten years, very fit, slim but with high blood pressure medication for 15 years. Recent result from Stress test - Mild reversible perfusion abnormality of the mid anterior wall, likely due to mild inducible ischaemia of limited extent. Further mild reversible perfusion abnormality of mid and basa inferolateral walls. Mild anterior ischaemia was suggested on perfusion scan, which corresponds to territory in which eccentric plaque was visualised on earlier CT coronary angiogram. Live in London and just returned from Royal Brompton Hospital who wish me to be admitted next week for Angiogram. Was told that taking the above into account 50% chance of requiring Angioplasty...... Seems ridiculous that as a 41 year old that I have to go through this procedure, and of course worried that my lifespan in general has now been dramatically shortened.... is this factual or is it possible with the above mentioned to plod on another 50 years with all the lifestyle changes required. thanking you - worried Englishman.
Andrew, London, UK, July 2, 2012

• Sajid in Malawi -- don't smoke, don't eat saturated fats, lose weight if you need to, exercise and comply with medications prescribed. But your cardiologist should be able to give you recommendations that are specific to you.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, July 1, 2012

• I HAD A HEART ATTACK AND WAS PUT ONE STENT IN SOUTH AFRICA ON THE 10TH JUNE 2012. HOW SHOULD I CONTROL MY LIFE STYLE AND DIET?
SAJID, LIMBE, MALAWI, June 25, 2012

• Dee in Oregon -- Certainly have the tests done and discuss these issues with your cardiologist.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 22, 2012

• I had a heart attack 2 months ago and 3 stents were inserted during the emergency. i have seen my doctor for a follow-up once and he wants to have some test performed (stress test, echo transthoracic, etc.) at the end of this month. My question though is: is it normal to still have tingling in the left arm after the heart attack and stents implanted? Thank you.
Dee, Klamath Falls, Oregon, USA, June 19, 2012

• My father is 46 yrs old n he just gone through angioplasty on 3/4/2012 so which precautions should be taken 4 him..he just love outgoings & all..its very difficult 2 tell him 2 stay at home...he had 95% blockage of LAD. So stenting was done..he is very conscious regarding his food,exercises but i don't know somehow it happened..so give proper guidlines...thank u
@@@, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, June 12, 2012

• Hvnbown in Denver -- You're on Plavix AND Effient?? Usually you're on one or the other. Taking both together would heighten your risk for bleeding complications.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, June 11, 2012

• 54 years old...went in for back pain to the ER. I thought I had a bad disc. Now I have 3 stents in the LAD widowmaker...2 balloon treatments add well. Had to put the stents in over lapping..ever heard of this. Now I'm on Effient, Plavix, aspirin, pravastatin, metoprolol.....mosquitos bite me and explode. I bleed, I bruise...my blood sticks to everything but the stents. The stents were placed right at the V..thus over lapping. But I'm alive.
Hvnbown, Denver, Colorado, USA, May 17, 2012

• Suzan in Ventura -- Step 1 and most important is to stop smoking. Easy to say; hard to do. We know this! But, while people are aware that cigarette smoking causes lung cancer and related respiratory problems, many don't realize its profound negative effect on the heart. It's the most important modifiable risk factor for coronary artery disease. So try stopping on your own (hard), or join a group, or ask your physician for help (counseling, nicotine-replacement therapy, etc.). Exercise is a great way to change also. Doesn't need to be strenuous. Walking every day a mile or more can be a start. It helps tone the body and also is critical in losing weight which, of course, you should also do. Get tested for cholesterol, lipids, blood sugar, etc. Even if they are high, try modifying your lifestyle and do another test in a few months to see how you have done. You may be surprised at your progress. Finally, if you can't modify your risk factors enough, there are medications that can lower cholesterol (statins), blood pressure, etc. Good luck to you.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, May 8, 2012

• My mother had a mild heart attack 6 years ago for which she received a stent. She had chest pains the other day, doctor tried putting in another stent today and found 95% blockage in two arteries. She is scheduled for a triple bypass tomorrow morning. I am 40 years old. I smoke, drink occasionally, and am about 20 pounds over weight. What is the likelihood of my going down the same road as my Mom? I plan to make smart changes. I hope it's enough. Be well, everyone.
Suzan from Calif., Ventura, California, USA, May 7, 2012

• I am a 47 year old female who had 98% blockage LAD and 1 stent in Jan 2012 due to plaque rupture. I was told there was a "weak area" on the bottom apex of my heart. I am a non-smoker, average to thinner weight, not bad cholesterol and a 3x a week gym rat and tennis player, despite some night chest angina and twinges in inside left arm and armpit i was fine and attending cardio rehab 3x a week. 3 1/2 months later Apr. 16, I had another massive attack in the circumflex and lower LAD, 3 more stents put in and am back to square one. WHY IS THIS Happening?? I faithfully take my Plavix, 40 of Lipitor, 6.5 mg of carvedilol, aspirin, diovan. Now my right ankle veins are bulging and aching at night when I lie down and all I want to do is sleep day and night. I've also experienced bad dreams which wake me in a huge state of anxiety... 2 Heart attacks in 3 months, long-term good diet... help! Now I'm scared of every ache and twinge, and starting to feel depressed.
2attackgirl, Chicago, Illinois, USA, May 3, 2012

• Dc in India -- Your doctor is probably thinking that the 25% blockage has advanced. Your treadmill test showed ischemia (was it a nuclear test?) but we were wondering if you have symptoms: angina, shortness of breath, etc. that would indicate a need for possible treatment. Has a low dose CT angiogram been considered? It's non-invasive and would show a blockage if there was one. But, if your doctor feels you have a blocked artery, then an invasive angiogram with possible angioplasty might be the best route. However, nothing on this Forum Topic should be looked upon as medical advice to be used in place of that from a healthcare professional.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 30, 2012

• I am a 65 years old female with heart failure. I had a primary angioplasty (1 stent) 3 years back. During the procedure, the doctor said I had 25% blockage in another artery. Last week I did a TMT, and report shows ischemia. The doctor prescribed to go through an angiography. Please advise what to do.
Dc, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, April 23, 2012

• Beenthere in Georgia -- From you and your doctor's description, it sounds like the angioplasty did what it was supposed to. It stopped the heart attack from damaging (permanently) your heart muscle. So now the path forward is to reduce your risk factors. Again, from what you say, your major risk factor was smoking, which you have now stopped. Congratulations on that! It isn't easy...interestingly people are aware that smoking can cause lung problems (emphysema or cancer), but many are not aware of how much smoking can cause coronary blockages. Your early menopause may also have impacted you, since the "protective" hormones have been reduced. But changing your lifestyle, eating healthy, exercising, etc. and staying compliant with your meds all can lead you to lead a full and active life. The man in the photo at the top of this is Adolph Bachmann. He was the very first angioplasty patient, which he had at 37 years of age (he beat you by almost a decade). He's now 72 and has led a very normal life -- well, actually, a bit more than normal, since he is a bit "famous." Best of luck, and check in with The Forum from time to time.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 22, 2012

• Hello all, I am 44 years old female had a heart attack 5 days ago. Stent was placed during heart attack as emergency. From my house to hospital to surgery and to CCU room about two and half hours. Went home next day. My stent was put in right coronary artery. Doctor said there was very little damage. He said none that he could see. I was put on blood thinner and aspirin, a beta blocker and Zantac. At the time of heart attack my cholesterol was low, blood pressure was low/normal, no family history, just happened but i was a smoker and doctor said that's what it was. Good news I quit that day. Now what I want to know is what is my outcome? They said no more caffeine..I'm scared to do anything for fear of another. I have had panic attacks for years, Heart attack felt like one. I need some feedback for I'm only 44 and want to live like it.. ? What are my chances of having another? Oh yeah also I was on Simvastatin for cholesterol because a year ago it was extremely high but I was able to bring it back to a below normal through diet =) I went through early menopause at 39/40. I am not overweight. I have been underweight my whole life. I am 5'4" and 113lb. I am not a drinker or drug abuser, just a small woman.
beenthere, Nahunta, Georgia, USA, April 22, 2012

• Hi I am Hatti. I had a heart attack on 13th Aug. 2009 at 11.30a.m.Initially I never knew it was an attack only the constant chest pain with no other symptoms like sweating, arm ache etc associated with heart attacks. I felt it was not anything with attack as i am off from drinking, smoking and non-veg also. So I decided and went to a heart foundation. It was 5.30 p.m. After ecg it was confirmed as heart attack and the very next day they performed angioplasty with 2 stenting done. Doctor informed as i went late by almost 5hrs after the attack 40% of my heart muscle is damaged and it will be there throughout my life. Post operation i lost 22kgs down from 84kgs to 62kgs, and even now my weight is steadily the same. It took almost 2 years for me to say i am doing much better than earlier. Now i walk 40mins daily (but slow speed) do pranayama and taking digoxin and aldostix regularly. Now my EF is 34. I take Lasix half tablet daily to avoid water retention and diet very strict. oats, no oil foods and junk foods etc. Further advice me on how I can improve my life style? Is anything else to be done?. I am always a positive minded person. thanks and regards.
Hatti, Bengaluru, India, April 13, 2012

• Dear Do Everything Right in Utah -- You certainly seem to adhere to your name -- your diet and exercise regimen are optimal; and it seems your risk factors are low. Wish we had an answer for you, as to why you have coronary artery disease, but we don't. Has your cardiologist offered any thoughts? Assuming your blood pressure is good, triglycerides, etc. your Framingham Risk Score is probably < 5% -- you have unfortunately fallen into that 5%. But "why" is one of the mysteries of this disease. Doctors and scientists have identified risk factors, devised successful treatments, invented miraculous imaging techniques, but the cause (or causes) of why some people have blockages and others don't is still, as per your example, somewhat of an unknown. Perhaps future research in genomics will aid this effort, but for now, stay compliant with your meds (especially Plavix and aspirin to avoid a blood clot complication in the stents) and keep up your lifestyle.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 10, 2012

• Why? I just had a heart attack, 2 stints [stents] placed, 1st artery 100% block and 2nd 75% block. I have no family history, 56 years old, exercise all my life, routine is 1 ½ hours every other day burning 1500+ calories, eat right (oat meal, nuts, juice, green tea, honey, fish, flax oil, lean meat, chicken, turkey, low carbs, etc.), not an ounce over weight, not stressed, low blood pressure, bad cholesterol low, good cholesterol high, non smoker, very active, hike at high altitudes, mountain bike, walk, etc. It does not add up, so why? What do I do different besides medicines now?
Do everything right?, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, April 9, 2012

• Coal India -- Was the angioplasty and stenting done within a short time after you were at the hospital -- if so, the damage to your heart my have been lessened. Your cardiologist can tell you what your ejection fraction (EF) is, which is a measure of how well your heart is pumping. Also, some of this function may return over time. You should discuss your medication, exercise and diet regimen with your cardiologist in terms of recovery, but angioplasty, if done in time, can stop a heart attack in its tracks, allowing a full recovery in a very short time.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 7, 2012

• i just had a heart attack, with 100% blockage in my left coronary artery, then coronary angioplasty and stenting was done...so i wanna know in how much risk my life is in, is all this has caused damage to my heart? what precautions had to be taken?
coal india, nagpur, India, April 6, 2012

• Supriya in New York -- What you are describing sounds like heart failure, caused most likely by the damage to your mother's heart muscle that occurred during her heart attack. Did the heart attack go its full course? Or was it interrupted with clot-dissolving medications or, better yet, angioplasty? We are assuming that the bypass surgery was done some time after the heart attack, presumably to increase blood flow to the heart, although this doesn't have much effect on the part of the heart muscle that is no longer viable (damaged during heart attack). Since she had a bypass less than 4 months ago, it is unlikely that it has closed up. Angioplasty and stents are used as an alternative to bypass, or sometimes to re-open a bypass or native vessel when the bypass graft fails over time (this happened to President Clinton a couple years ago). We would assume that if your mother had any significant blockages, these all would have been bypassed during her recent surgery. So the question is whether or not she currently has any blocked coronary arteries, in which case a stent might help. As for her damaged heart muscle, there are ways of treating heart failure (detailed in the NIH link above). These are complex clinical situations and, as always, we recommend that patients (and their families) discuss specific prognosis and treatment with their cardiologists.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 5, 2012

• Hi, my mom in 75 years old, had a major heart attack 4 months ago and needed a bypass...she was doing better until recently.. as a result of the heart attack, her heart pumping capacity is down to 25% ( her heart muscles are really weak) ... because of this its unable to pump the water out of the heart and now the water is accumulating in her heart and causing problems.. we had to hospitalize her again and get the water out..now the question is that we have been meaning to put stents in for her heart ever since her bypass but kept delaying it for diff reasons....given her weak heart condition, would a stent help and would it be advisable to insert one now?
Supriya, New York, USA, April 4, 2012

• Dan in New Mexico -- Blood clot (a.k.a. thrombus) has a fibrous, almost jelly-like consistency. So stents, which are meant to push hard plaque against the artery wall, aren't great with clotted material, because the clot just oozes through the stent struts (think pushing jelly against a coarse screen -- it goes right through!). But interventional cardiologists have several tools to deal with this situation. One is potent antithrombotic drugs, like bivalirudin, clopidogrel, heparin, IIb/IIIa inhibitors, etc. which can be delivered during the procedure and can dissolve the thrombus. Another tool is an aspiration catheter device that literally vacuums out the thrombus. Several recent studies have shown these to be beneficial. We assume that the hospital did not have such devices. In any case, is your doctor saying the stents have failed? We assume, now that the thrombus is gone, the stents are holding open the previously blocked artery and helping prevent this from occurring again.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 1, 2012

• Recent MI. Doctor said lower venal cavity completely occluded with blood clot material. Had multiple angioplasties with three stents inserted. Each stent was said to fail due to blockage being blood clot and not hardened artery or plaque. Sent me home after several days monitoring with full spectrum of blood thinners, beta blockers, etc. Why wouldn't stents hold clear clot material? Appreciate any info...
DanSummersNM, Clovis, New Mexico, USA, April 1, 2012

• John from Australia -- Your question is really one of "appropriateness." One technology we have tried to promote here on Angioplasty.Org is Fractional Flow Reserve, a measurement done during the angiogram that can resolve questions of "should a stent be placed?" For more information, you can read our feature, "FFR: Why Isn't Everyone Using It?" These articles also discuss why the angiogram is not necessarily the most accurate measurement for this decision -- it must be viewed in light of clinical symptoms, etc. Also read our Editor's blog post, "To Stent or Not to Stent: That is the Question!" which discusses legal action against a cardiologist in the U.S. for unnecessary stenting -- a matter not yet completely resolved -- much controversy that the second-guessing of this doctor's decisions was flawed. We can't really refer you to a center that would give you a second opinion, but look around at interventional cardiology centers, possibly closer to you (New Zealand) or California or Southeast Asia (Thailand, Singapore -- all have excellent interventional cardiology centers).
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 1, 2012

• Hi. No heart attack, good blood pressure, no history of chest pain and not overweight. Non smoker and 2 glasses of wine per week. Very fit and healthy until stents fitted, adverse reaction to statins i.e. 40mg of Crestor for slightly elevated cholesterol. I need the CD of angiogram analyzed outside Australia for obvious reasons. The hospital i attended will not show me the artery blockage in zoom mode in cath lab, they say no zoom available. my age is 68. just celebrated my fathers 100th birthday. Cheers.
John Langdon, Queensland, Australia, April 1, 2012

• John from Australia -- Are you saying stents were placed, but you don't think you needed them? Are you saying you did a bike ride (as described) the day before the stenting? Did you have ongoing pain, symptoms of any sort? If you are looking for a second opinion, we'd suggest showing your angiograms to anbother interventional cardiologist, or two. If you are trying to see if the stents were placed needlessly, this is pretty complicated and we really cannot advise you, except to get additional medical opinions. It would be important to get your complete medical records, not just the angiogram. Did your cardiologist explain to you why he/she felt you needed the stents?? Was an FFR performed during the angiogram? By the way, you've posted to a topic on heart attack. Have you had one previously??
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, April 1, 2012

• Hi. I have had stents fitted after one incidence of exertional chest pain, never breathless, but still had slight residue of chest pain after stents, exactly same as before. This minor exertional pain disappeared after further exercise, but lasted about 4 months after angioplasty [muscular?]. The cardiologist did not perform a stress test, although I told him I had completed 35km ride on mountain bike at average speed 24km the day prior to admission for angiogram. I do not think I needed the stents. Where could I send the cd of angiogram to be analyzed for definitive blockage prior to stenting. I am willing to pay for this and require a written analysis.
John Langdon, Queensland, Australia, March 31, 2012

• CharlieT in West Virginia -- First of all, you've posted to a topic about stenting. For surgery, you should look at our topic on Problems After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG). Have you discussed this with your cardiologist? You should find out what your ejection fraction (EF) is because if you had a heart attack, and you heart muscle was damaged, that may be a reason why you don't have the energy you'd like. No, it's not normal, but if your EF is low, that might be a reason.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 31, 2012

• About 20 years ago, I experienced chest pains. They went away and that was the end of it. I'm 63 years old now but at 60 my wife suggested I have a check up although I had no reason to. I went to the hospital, and had 2 good doctors. I figured I would go home that day after the check up, however the Dr had me take some tests. The Dr then advised me that I needed surgery because I had 3 blocked arteries. Surgery was scheduled for the next day. After the surgery, I got to talk to the surgeon who told me that there was not 3 but 5 blockages. I was put on medicines and sent home after a week. The doctor said with major surgery, it take about a year to regain your energy. I had all kinds of energy before my surgery. After 3 years now I still have no energy, not even enough to get off the couch many days. About a year ago, I stopped taking the medicines they had given me thinking it might make a difference, however there has been no change in anything for good or bad. My question is, is this normal? Having zero energy?
CharlieT, Gallipolis Ferry, West Virginia, USA, March 31, 2012

• Semshu -- Sounds like your husband needs his medications adjusted so that his blood pressure is corrected to normal. Is he taking any other medications besides his heart drugs? You both should see his cardiologist to report this and find a solution.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 30, 2012

• hi my husband had a heart attack and had done a angioplasty thereafter. now after even 4 months, he is still feeling weak and because of his low blood pressure he sometimes faints and always in a mood to sleep. when he is in no work he can sleep hours. recently he had done a stress plan and holter 24 hours. both shows good result. please anyone can help me how to gain blood pressure. everyone is worried of high blood pressure, but for me i need to gain blood pressure thanks
Semshu Machak, Pamo, Delhi, India, March 20, 2012

• Manoj -- since your brother only had non-invasive tests, it's not clear that he had no blockage. He may have had a blockage for quite some time. Also the 100% blockage may have been thrombus, or blood clot, which is how a heart attack typically happens -- and this clot can form within a very short time. Smoking is definitely a very big risk factor for coronary artery disease, so we hope he has been able to stop.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 20, 2012

• My brother had minor chest pain (discomforts) in Dec 2011 and he got all the tests (Non-intrusive) cholesterol, sugar, TMT, ECG done and it was all normal. He has been a smoker and slightly alcoholic too. In march 2012 he had severe pain and it was heart attack. Doctor said one artery was 100% blocked and he was put a stent. Now he is fine. I am wondering how can an artery be blocked just in 3 months of the time. He has been active sportsman too. Please let me know soon.
Manoj, Delhi, India, March 17, 2012

• Lacy -- This is a medical/legal issue that we cannot comment on. We suggest you consult an expert in this area.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 17, 2012

• I had a thallium stress test to clear me for hip replacement. Failed the test. The Dr. that ordered the test was not notified of results. After leaving recovery room, had a heart attack. 100% blockage in 7 year old stint [stent]. 2 cardiac arrest before could get to heart cath lab. Anyone ever heard of this before. I found out 2 months later. Think this has been swept under rug. Who do I report this to? Want to make sure this does not happen to another patient.
Lacy, Georgia, USA, March 14, 2012

• Old Ed in Florida -- You have posted to a topic on heart attack. You don't mention that in your post. Did you have one? And, if so, were the stents placed during the heart attack as an emergency procedure?
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 13, 2012

• I had 2 stents put in on Feb. 20, 2012. I felt great for a while. Now I am tired and weak. I am taking my medication as directed. But, I feel like I am doing something wrong. No energy at mid-day.
Old Ed, Lakeland, Florida, USA, March 13, 2012

• Worried Wife in North Carolina -- Diabetes is an independent risk factor for heart disease. Although arteries have been bypassed to improve blood flow, it may be that he has heart function problems, possible muscle damage or possibly valvular problems as well. The symptoms you describe might be related to congestive heart failure (CHF) but this is something his cardiologist needs to look at, diagnose, etc. If you haven't already, we would suggest you and he have a session with his cardiologist to get guidance on these issues. Good luck and let the Forum know what more you find out.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 12, 2012

• my 53 year old husband had coronary bypass surgery 3 months ago. he had no prior cardiac problems, and though he is overweight, he has been able to be active with gardening and yard work. he never had elevated cholesterol but has had diabetes x 8 years. he was diagnosed with a very weak heart and had 2 bypasses, he would have needed a third but there was no viable area to attach vessels to. he did very well after his surgery, but has developed extreme fatigue and sob on minimal exertion. he is taking 80mg of Lasix a day but continues to have a cough and some edema. he felt great until 3 weeks ago. Drs. not giving answers. what would be the next step?
worried wife, Clinton, North Carolina, USA, March 9, 2012

• dg-England -- Do mean "resting heart rate"? 56 is a good number for that. Your blood pressure is a different measurement, something like 120/80 which is your systolic over diastolic pressures.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 9, 2012

• cold sweats and low blood pressure - I had a heart attack 5 weeks ago at 38 and had a stent fitted. When i now exercise by going on long walks i get cold sweats, without being out of breath. My resting blood pressure was 56 is this normal, even with the lowering drugs i am taking.
dg-England, Leeds, England, March 8, 2012

• Feeling Less Hopeless in Phoenix (we like the name change!) -- You probably received a bare metal stent because, until last week, no drug-eluting stent (DES) had been given FDA approval for use in acute myocardial infarction. This is not to say that other drug-eluting stents are not safe, just that they hadn't been put through a clinical trial to test for this specific indication. Yes, DES are more effective in reducing restenosis (reblocking by tissue) but there was concern that they are also more prone to blood-clotting and therefore Plavix and aspirin need to be taken for a year minimum (for bare metal stents, it's 6 months or less). As for clots, your stent won't "release a clot" -- clots can form when blood platelets gather around the exposed metal stent struts. This is why you need to take antiplatlet meds until a layer of cells naturally coats the metal struts. This usually occurs more quickly in bare metal stents. As for being worried about workin out too much, check out our Forum Topic on Exercise After Stenting.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 7, 2012

• Thanks for your response. As a follow-up to my previous question, should I be concerned that I received a bare metal stent instead of a medicated stent? Why aren't all stents medicated and which is more effective? I push myself extremely hard at times when I work out, and I'm always concerned that my stent is going to release a clot. Am I just being paranoid?
Feeling Less Hopeless in Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, March 7, 2012

• Feeling Helpless in Phoenix -- First of all, the fact that the risk factors you can control are under control is good. And the fact that you and your cardiologist agree that you are probably better now than before your heart attack -- also good. Even great. Stay with the prescribed meds and stay healthy, active, etc. and get regular checkups. But don't feel hopeless or doomed. Medical technology, both in pharmaceuticals and in devices (like stents), has progressed incredibly in the past couple decades. And the specter of a heart attack ending one's useful life is no longer valid. Read our blog post (and watch the video too) at "Heart Attack and Angioplasty: A Public Education Challenge".
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 2, 2012

• I am a 44 yr old male who had a major heart attack on 5/5/11 and was implanted with a bare metal stent. Location of stent is LAD, which I believe is the widow maker. I have a major family history of heart disease including early deaths in the family (uncle died at 46 and father had minor heart attack at age 44-has since had quintuple by-pass). My question is what can I do if my risk factors are otherwise normal (low blood pressure, don't smoke, work out, normal LDL and HDL)? I could probably lose some more weight, but I am relatively healthy and feel like the incident never happened. My cardiologist even said I'm probably better now than before the heart attack. Am I doomed? Thanks for your insight.
Feeling Helpless in Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona, USA, March 2, 2012

• NCSQE in India -- This topic is about heart attacks and stents. It doesn't sound as if you have had a heart attack, but for advice on how long to rest, exercise, etc. you should consult your cardiologist. If you received a drug-eluting stent, you should be taking aspirin AND clopidogrel for a year minimum.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, March 1 , 2012

• Sir, i am 48 male after mild chest pain and stress test confirm, i went angina for 23/2/12,it shows 1 valve 85% block in RCA, so doctors advised, PTCA to RCA, i am 8 years diabetic my sugar level in pp 220, i can under went stent fixing on 5/3/12, how many days i need to take rest, now i am taken aspirin tabs, in post operative stage its necessary to do the angina again in future, give me your valuable suggestions. regards.
ncsqe, India, February 28, 2012

• Kate in Tennessee -- Your mother has a very complicated clinical picture, as you're no doubt aware. There's no way to assess her "life expectancy" remotely. Her cardiologists would be the best judges of that. When were her stents placed and has there been any measure of heart function since? When you say she does not follow doctor instructions, what exactly do you mean?
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 27, 2012

• 72 year old mother, with diabetes, now beginning kidney failure, congestive heart failure for 4 years, ejection fraction ranges 15-25%; 4 arteries blocked (2 @ 100%, 1 @ 80% and 4th at 70%). Just recently advised she would need bypass to survive, but viability tests resulted in her having no viable heart muscle to bypass to. The 2 salvageable arteries were stented & this was only option for her. Told prognosis for her is unchanged. She is also 5'6" & weighs 210#, non-ambulatory, and does not follow doctor instructions. She does seem to self-medicate properly & seems to keep her diabetes under control with the pills & insulin shots. Life expectancy?
KATE, Tennessee, USA, February 27, 2012

• H in Saudi Arabia -- To answer your questions quickly, you shouldn't be confused about why you had a heart attack: you list virtually every risk factor known. Some you cannot change, like family history, but others you can...and eliminating or lessening these controllable risk factors can help ward off future events. So (1) stop smoking immediately. Smoking is one of the worst things you can do to your heart (not to mention lungs, etc.). Obviously changing your diet, losing weight and increasing physical activity are all important, as is staying on the prescribed medications. All of these things are not easy to do, so perhaps you can enroll in a cardiac rehab program where you can get the support you need. Long term results with the newest generation of drug-eluting stents are excellent, but stents do not "cure" coronary artery disease and if you don't get your risk factors under controls, the disease will progress, and eventually another blockage will appear. Plavix is prescribed for a year to prevent blood clots in the stent. Your cardiologist should guide you as to when you may stop (Plavix is also prescribed for other cardiac reasons). Your EF can increase after your heart muscle recovers from the insult of the MI. Stress is also a factor by itself. The heart and mind are connected, altbhough stress can also drive you to unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, eating, etc. Hope this helps. Oddly, many heart attack patients find that when they change their habits and start living healthier lives, they actually feel better than they did before the MI. Good luck to you.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 26, 2012

• I had an MI on 17Aug11 at the age of 34 & later followed by angioplasty with 2 stents (95% & 90% block). Risk factors Smoking, diet, Obesity, High cholesterol (LDL & Triglycerides) & low HDL since at least 7 years which i know. My father is had heart attack after 55. Below are my queries:
1) I am still confused the real cause of my MI cause i know many people at my age with same risk factors?
2) General prognosis after PTCA?
3) If now LDL is maintained with Statin & diet can i start normal food with Veg oil & occasional high fat food (once a week)?
4) Why stress is a risk factor?
5) What i can do to minimize the risk of plague progression to new places?
6) What is the long term study/results/success of DES?
7) What is the risk to stop Plavix after 1 year?
8) I have 2 conflicting EF from 2 different hospitals one after MI it was less and after 5 days it was improved (is it possible ?) but doctor can still tell from ECG.
9) What symptoms i should keep an eye ? for Angina or MI?
Sorry for many questions but i believe i tried to structure it and this can help lot of readers in this forum hopefully. Thanks.
H, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, February 26, 2012

• heart-attack and stent in Minnesota -- If the blocked arteries are preventing good blood flow to the heart muscle, then opening them should improve things. Sometimes ejection fraction (EF) which is a measure of the heart's ability to pump, can improve over time, especially if rehab (exercise, diet, etc.) are practiced along with proper medical therapy, after stenting. But this is on a case-by-case basis. But there are many patients who are able to return to normal, some even better than normal, after a heart attack -- if they make the necessary changes in lifestyle and if their treatment is optimal. And speaking of diabetes, a new drug-eluting stent, the RESOLUTE Integrity, has just been approved by the FDA for use in diabetic patients.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 25, 2012

• My dad suffered a heart-attack and has a 33% heart damage on the right side. Left side has two blockages - 90% and 70% and is going to have angioplasty. Has diabetes and high blood pressure and used to smoke. After the angioplasty how much can his life return "back to normal"? Can the heart damage be reversed? And how would it limit him?
heart-attack and stent, Minnesota, USA, February 23, 2012

• A&A in Mumbai -- You've posted to a topic on heart attacks. Did your father have one? The question for your father's doctors would be what is the reason to do another angiogram? Has your father shown symptoms, are some of his tests abnormal? While angiography is generally safe, there is risk for any medical procedure and they are not done without reason. As for the chance of further blockages, coronary artery disease (CAD) is a chronic condition. It doesn't exactly get "cured", but its progression can be slowed or even stopped. Patients need to do everything they can (diet, exercise, take the prescribed medications, stop smoking, etc.) and hope they can counter the genetic trends.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 24, 2012

• Hi My Dad underwent an angioplasty in mid 2010. A stent has been inserted then. He has been fine & is taking all the necessary precautions thereafter. Now almost after 1 & 1/2 years he has been asked again to go for angiography to check for blockages. He has been told that if they find blockages then he may again have to go for angioplasty. want to know that 1. Do we need to again do an angiography after 1 & 1/2 years & are there any chances of having further blockages for which an angioplasty is again required to be done. kindly guide me. thanks in anticipation.
angiography & angioplasty, Mumbai, India, February 21, 2012

• Hello All- What a way to be bonded huh? I am a 53 yr old woman. Suffered a heart attack Dec 7 2011. Had a 95% blocked LAD. First month was rough, lots of crying and depression. Dr. Prescribed Wellbutrin but I didn't start taking it until a few weeks ago. I thought I "had this" and didn't want to take so many meds. Plavix, aspirin, Carvedilol and statin meds. Jeez this was a major wake up call. I was a smoker (dumb) but quit cold turkey the day of my heart attack. I am doing a lot better, started cardio rehab. And have faced my mortality like many of us here. I had a stent placed the day after I was admitted. Had to wait for the 3 troponin tests to come back. I wonder if they did not wait, would I be better off. They couldn't see an irregular EKG at first. They thought it was "All in my head". I hate the bastards that always think women are crazy. Whatever, I'm glad to be here. Got a 2nd chance to do better. Good luck to all. I've got more to say but not enough room. Be well
Barbi E., Nashville, Tennessee, USA, February 13, 2012

• I have been diagnosed with heart disease following a minor heart attack a few months ago. I live alone and enjoy my independence, but am worrying about the future. Has anyone got any information on Telehealth, which would help enable me to stay living at home?
RoyJudd, London, England, February 13, 2012

• Nishtha, Bampy and J.A.W. from India -- The prognosis for a patient after a heart attack depends on many things, general state of health, lifestyle changes (if necessary) amount of heart damage sustained, etc. Some general statistics can be quoted, but each patient is really an individual and the best person to give you this information is you or your father's cardiologist. It is possible for the heart's ejection fraction to improve, as Nishtha's father's has. Ideally, if a heart attack victim can get to a hospital that performs angioplasty ASAP, the angioplasty can be done during the MI and heart muscle can be saved. Follow your doctor's advice, get into a rehabilitation program, if one is available. J.A.W., your nuclear stress test should also involve a nuclear ventriculogram which will show the ability of the heart muscle to expand and contract and therefore, where there is viable muscle. Although, a standard ventriculogram is normally done during an angiography procedure to assess the heart's motion. The best advice for all is to look forward, do what is possible to reduce risk factors and increase general health through diet and exercise and the correct medications.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 12, 2012

• THANK YOU FOR THE CLARIFYING ADVISE ! A NUCLEAR SCAN (STRESS THALLIAUM) IS SUGGESTED ! IS THAT GOOD TO DETERMINE IF THE HEART MUSCLE IN THAT PORTION IS COMPROMISED OR NOT ? IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE THAT I COULD DO TO GET RID OF THIS DILEMMA AND TAKE A DECISION !
J.A.W., Kolkata, West Bengal, India, February 12, 2012

• Hi, nishtha from India. My dad suffered from a massive heart attack like a month before. He is 62. Due to d left portion of d heart is damaged and contraction isn't happening, the doctors say that it has expanded. After the attack the EF level went down to 27 but now its 39. What are his chances of living a long healthy life?
nishtha sood, Delhi, India, February 11, 2012

• Hello, My father is 70 yrs old. On 23rd December 2011, he had a massive heart attack because of 90% arteries blockage. He was doing fine but sometimes he experiences shortness of breath at night that keeps him awake at night. What could be the reason? Please help. Thanks
bampy, abc, Pune, India, February 10, 2012

• J.A.W. in India -- Whether or not to open a CTO (Chronic Total Occlusion) if that is what your LAD is, is a topic of debate. The big question is whether that artery is supplying a viable part of the heart muscle. If so, opening it may help your EF. If that part of your heart muscle is already compromised, then increasing the blood flow won't have a great effect. However, reducing all other risk factors, changing lifestyle, staying on the prescribed meds, are all positive routes to recovery.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 9, 2012

• I SUFFER A M.I. ON 13.8.2011 IN KOLKATA, INDIA, ONLY MEDICATION WAS PRESCRIBED BY THE HOSPITAL AND THEN ON 31.8.2011 AN ANGIOGRAM WAS DONE WHICH REVEALED 100% BLOCKED LAD IN THE MID SEGMENT. HOWEVER NO STENT WAS IMPLANTED THEN ! TODAY AFTER APPX 6 MONTHS OF M.I. I AM CONFUSED WITH 2 DIFFERANT OPENION - PLEASE HELP !1. TO UNDERGO AN ANGIOPLASTY NOW, OPEN THE 100% BLOCKED ARTERY, AND IMPLANT A STENT RESULTING IN IMPROVING MY CURRENT "LVEF" FROM 35%2. NOT TO UNDERGO ANY INVASIVE OR NON INVASIVE TREATMENT AT ALL, PERCEIVING THE CELLS TO HAVE DEGENERATED ALREADY, AND ANGIOPLASTY NOT RESULTING IN ANY BENEFIT, ONLY MEDICALLY MANAGE A CHANGED LIFESTYLE RESULTING IN SLOW BUT STEADY DILUSION OF THE CLOT !KINDLY ADVISE WHAT I SHOULD DO ?I AM CURRENTLY UNDER DEPRESSION, DO NOT GET INVOLVED IN MY REGULAR BUSINESS, BUT AM STRICTLY FOLLOWING THE ADVISED MEDICATION & FOOD CHANGES !
J.A.W., Kolkata, West Bengal, India, February 9, 2012

• Thanks for your kind reply and explanation. I will keep the forum informed with the results of my staged PCI. Actually I am quite satisfied with the treatment so far and have been comforted with what I read on this site. Thanks a lot for great work.
Desouza, Chennai, India, February 7, 2012

• Desouza from Chennai -- Your ejection fraction is a bit below normal, which is not at all bad for someone who's just had a heart attack and who has two more major arteries with significant blockages. Having the stents implanted in two more separate procedures is called "staged PCI" and is really a decision best made by the interventional cardiologists who are caring for you. It would be a cautious approach -- the downside is that you have to go through the procedure twice (prep, needle stick, etc.); however, since the two arteries are the LAD and RCA, they would require two different "wires" anyway (one into the right system -- and another into the left system) so your doctors may feel it is best to deal with one issue at a time, let you recover and then do the third. Glad to hear you are doing well. Let the Forum know how things turn out.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 4, 2012

• I have had an AMI two weeks ago and it was detected that I have 100% (circumflex), 95% (RCA and LAD each) blockage in my three arteries. I was given an urgent PCI in Circumflex and I am now doing well. My Ejection fraction was found to be 52%. I have been advised to undertake two more PCI (stenting procedures) as soon as possible (one is scheduled next week). Can you tell me, if it is a good choice to take this treatment and what are the risks in opting out. Also, I was advised to take this procedure one at a time. Is it a good idea?
Desouza, Chennai, India, February 4, 2012

• Mike from England -- Unless you're experiencing a significant hypersensitivity reaction to the stent polymer (assuming it's a drug-eluting stent) your white blood cell count shouldn't be affected by the stent. Even if you had a metal allergy, you'd have had this reaction to the hip implants which contain far more metal.

And Barbara -- your story is very interesting, in that it show that FFR found a significant blockage that was missed in the original angiography (see our Intravascular Guidance Center for more information on FFR). As for your breathing problem, it might be anxiety. Have you discussed this with your cardiologist? We would suggest asking him/her to recommend a rehab program where you can start breathing and other exercises, and share your concerns, etc. with others as well: rehab has both physical and emotional benefits.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, February 1, 2012

• I experienced a heart attack a few weeks ago. I had an angioplasty. I had a 95% very proximal LAD stenosis. The large OM1 branch had a 80% proximal stenosis. 2 stents were inserted. I was then given all the necessary medication and was released. However, since the operation, my "breathing cycle" seemed interrupted. I can breath in and out but that deep breath like a "sigh" I am unable to complete....same with a yawn that gives that satisfying feeling of completion. I constantly feel anxious. I returned to the hospital with this complaint and ended up having another angioplasty. An additional stent was inserted since the LAD lesion distal to stent was significant by FFR criteria (0.72). PCI of LAD was performed and 3rd stent inserted. I was then discharged. I STILL CAN'T BREATH properly and feel anxious and incomplete with by breathing. Could this be anxiety, med adjustment required. I worry that they missed something and that something is still wrong. Other than the breathing issue, I am starting to feel better. Thank you.
Barbara, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, February 1, 2012

• Can a stent implant increase the white blood cell count. My reading was 12.1. I also have metal implants in both hips.
Mike, Recovering heart attack patient, England, January 30, 2012

• Macedonia guy -- Lots of questions. We'll try to answer some. Multi-Link stent is a bare metal stent made by Abbott (formerly Guidant). As far as "heart damage" goes, get your Ejection Fraction or EF and see what it was measured at (it's part of the angiogram). An inferior myocardial infarction refers to the inferior wall, as opposed to, for example, the anterior. It means where the infract occured, but the only way to determined the damage to the muscle is to get the EF. And EF can be increased as you recover. But we're confused, as are you, about whether you actually had a heart attack or not. Sounds like you may need to get a second opinion.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 30, 2012

• Hi, I am 36, Please help!I have to understand something please , at the morning of the heart attack, they say it was an inferior MI, the chest pain disappeared after am hour from when it started and never came back again after they gave me pills and aspirin. And an IV , the pain came and left twice and after that I had no chest pain, I never felt like IM going ti pass out, I was awake all the time , now I feel that just I am so scared and depressed cause of what happened to me, and this doctor was so weird, he has a talking problem or something, I asked him twice about the damage to the heart but he just keeps saying everything is perfect, either I'm not getting the message. I too found out that in most cases heart attacks that occur in the inferior wall or the bottom of the heart are minor A cardiologist told me That I did not have a heart attack, just an even that could have became an heart attack, but this guy is a family friend and I suspect that someone told him to tell me that. in the paper it says Infarctus myocardi ac.inferioris; PCI stenting RCA No II. My question is How will I know how much I damaged my heart, please someone tell me what type stent is model Multi link ultra
Macedonia guy, Macedonia , January 27, 2012

• COMING IN SEPTEMBER, 2012: PULSE OF MY HEART On a cold, crisp morning in November, 2004, my wife kissed me goodbye and headed out to her job as an art teacher…and came back with a broken heart. At age 43, Patty suffered a "widowmaker"--a massive heart attack that few survive. Soon after, she developed congestive heart failure so severe she was nearly unable to walk. First listed for a transplant and then unable to get a new heart because of high antibodies, her only hope was to beat the odds and recover. PULSE OF MY HEART is the account of that long road back. As we walk through each delicate step of Patty's journey, we share important lessons learned that may help others trapped in similar nightmares. In a country where one person dies from a heart-related event every minute, we know our story could be anyone's story. Patty's story, PULSE OF MY HEART (http://www.behlerpublications.com/titles-omara-croft.shtml), will be available online and in bookstores this coming September. Please show your support for another heart patient (and her family) by watching for the book and by "liking" our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/pulseofmyheart). We love adding new folks to our fun, hilarious and informative discussions. Please spread the word. Thanks in advance for your support. [Editor's note -- Angioplasty.Org has no connection with this book -- the preceding comments are solely those of the authors.]
pulseofmyheart, Authors, PULSE OF MY HEART, Chicago area, Illinois, USA, January 23, 2012

• CCinHershey -- We don't give medical advice in place of a trained medical professional, but it would seem that, if your LAD bypass is patent, then the bypass is doing its job and you should have good blood flow to your heart. The question about your "eight other blockages that are 70% or greater" is one which can only be answered by your interventional cardiologist. Were they significant? Were fractional flow reserve measurements done to assess if the blockages are significant and causing your symptoms? As for the 100% blockage in your RCA, was that also bypassed? Chronic total occlusions like this one are difficult and complex to open. It can be done, best done by a specialist in this area, but the question is whether that will provide benefit to the patient. We'd appreciate your posting any follow up from the second opinion to this Forum, to help others who may be in similar situations.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 23, 2012

• I had CABGx4 in June 2010 at the age of 37. Very rare case for a female. Since then I've been living a very clean lifestyle. All blood tests are excellent. I'm also diabetic with a HgA1c of 5.5 now. Cholesterol is optimal. I have been complaining of fatigue and pre-syncope spells to my cardiologist for 5 months now and she finally decided to to a stress echo. It showed abnormal heart rhythms and blockages in my LAD. Had a heart cath on Friday. My LAD is 100% blocked but my bypass to that artery is patent. Does this mean I'm okay and out of danger of a heart attack? I didn't get any answers from anyone and I'm looking into another doc for a second opinion. I have 8 other blockages that are 70% or greater. They did stent an 80% blockage they found in my LCX but left another 100% in my RCA alone. Doesn't make sense. Help!!!
ccinhershey, Pennsylvania, USA, January 22, 2012

• Kellygirl -- Read our recent news article, "New Drug-Eluting Stents: Lower Mortality and Less Restenosis". The restenosis rate in the Swedish registry was 3.9% at two years. Do you know what brand/mdel stents you received? But, yes. Reduce your controllable risk factors (smoking, weight, exercise) and stay on the prescribed meds. Sounds like you received emergency angioplasty within a very short time, which is great, because that preserves your heart muscle and to a great extent cancels out the negative effects of a heart attack.Keep us posted on your progress and check out our Forum Topic on "Exercise After Stenting" as well.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 22, 2012

• I am a 45yr old female. I had my first MI on Jan 2/2012. I live within a mile of the hospital, and was on the table in the cath lab within 90 minutes of the start of my heart attack. I had 2 stents placed. I for a 100% blockage of my LAD. Another stent placed for a 70% blockage. They are medicated stents and I am taking Effient. IF I take my meds, correct my diet, what are my odds of a second heart attack. I have chest pain every day still, so I am always worried. 2 yrs ago I had a 64 slice down that showed no blockages, how is this even possible? My stress test two years ago also was fine. I did have a total hysterectomy this summer due to being BRCA2 positive, so I am in full blown menopause. Could this have contributed to my MI and my CAD? I still can't believe that I had a heart attack, so thankful to be alive, I cry all the time (tears of joy)...my poor husband. I am overweight, but that will take time, in the meantime, I am so scared of having another heart attack. What are the chances of medicated stents blocking as long as you take your meds? I could really use some advice and reassurance. Thank you for all of your stories, it helps to know I am not alone.
Kellygirl, Brandon, Florida, USA, January 21, 2012

• Not really possible to say without knowing his clinical situation, test results, records, etc. You should ask his cardiologist these questions, to find out the specifics, which you can use to help your dad cope with the situation and guide him through recovery. Certainly he should be doing whatever he can to reduce his risk factors: diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and taking the prescribed medications.
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 19, 2012

• My dad has never had any heart problems in the past. He just recently has experienced minor heart attacks and even a couple major ones. I guess my question would be, why is he all of a sudden having them? Like what could be the cause of these sudden heart problems?
A concerned daughter, Indiana, USA, January 19, 2012

Ted, I 43yr female and had a heart attack too. They blamed it all on smoking. I have bad heart burn and tightness too. They say it could be acid reflux. I have ulcers also. This is being treated. But I still have all the heart burn and tightness anyway.
Kim, Douglas County Building Department, Douglasville, Georgia, USA, January 12, 2012

• Christi in Kentucky -- Your question is a complicated one, because there are a number of variables. For example, even though two of your arteries are occluded, were they dominant arteries (the "widow maker", a.k.a. LAD or left anterior descending artery, may not be dominant in your anatomy -- some people are right artery dominant)? Also, were the occluded arteries supplying the part of your heart that was damaged, and therefore re-opening them wouldn't really add that much. Another issue is whether collaterals have developed around the blocked arteries, forming a "natural bypass". As we said, whether or not to try and reopen a chronic old total occluded artery is a complex decision. So the answer to your question is very specific to your particular clinical situation. What did the cardiologist who did your stenting think? You might want to consult an interventional cardiologist who specializes in CTOs (Chronic Total Occlusions).
Angioplasty.Org Staff, Angioplasty.Org, January 2, 2012

• I am a 53 year old female with heart failure. In Oct. 2010, I had an emergency double By-pass surgery for blockage. Two weeks after the procedure I experienced symptoms and they inserted a stint [stent]. Two weeks after that, all grafts occluded causing a heart attack and subsequent heart failure. It has been a little over a year, and I have improved greatly. My EF is now 45% and I have returned to work. My "widow maker" is occluded. Of my two remaining arteries-one is 60% blocked. I know that my most important arteries were by-passed and those bypasses failed. My question is this- How likely is it that someone with only 2 arteries can survive long term?
Christi, Murray, Kentucky, USA, January 2, 2012

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