Wednesday's Echo-Stress Test was inconclusive - at least when it comes to finding the cause of my symptoms. However, it definitely confirmed something is not as it should be. Walking at a steady pace had me instantly short of breath. By the time I was jogging...well, let me just say the only reason I continued was because I was in a hospital and only feet away from my nurse and the doctors she worked under.The test went as follows: I was hooked up to an EKG machine, then given a Echo-cardiogram [ultrasound of my heart]. Then I stepped onto a treadmill and walked slowly. The rate was increased to a steady pace, then a fast pace, then eventually jogging. Let's just say it was not a pretty sight. The initial Echo-Cardiogram revealed no noticeable problems. The EKG revealed regular heartbeat while standing still as well as while walking and jogging. The Echo-Cardiogram immediately following also revealed no noticeable problems. The Cardiologist said she would recommend a specific type of CT Scan that provides a clearer picture of my heart.
As a result of these most recent test results, my Pulmonologist called (last night) to say she referred me to a Cardiologist. I will see that Cardiologist's Physicians Assistant on Monday morning. My assumption is that the PA is setting me up for tests and not doing diagnostic work. And considering I'm now blogging about Pulmonologists and Cardiologits, I must say I am a little stunned.
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You know, Bert, people like me from all over the country, who will likely never meet you, still keep checking your blog to see how you are doing. I know you would like the blog to end for good, but for someone like me who has no other contact with you and yet says prayers for you retularly, I am glad you are continuing, although sorry about the circumstances.
ReplyDeleteYou certainly do not deserve these developments, but at least remember people are thinking daily of you. I think I am attached to your blog because you are such a valiant and insightful human being.
Best wishes in this latest chapter, and know that you are not alone.
Wendy in Minnesota
Wendy it seems I never replied to your comment. How odd. Thank you SO much for your kind words. I hope you are well.
DeleteI am stunned, too... you are too young for all of this. I don't know what else to say.
ReplyDeleteCancer soooooo pisses me off. I hate what it's done to my body, what treatment for it has done and continues to do to my health and my body. But what I have been through is only a fraction of what you have been through.
I continue to pray that they will figure out what is going on with your heart and have some way to correct the problem so that you can get on with your life soon.
Hang in there. Same goes to Daniella.
Maria
I'm amazed, I have to admit. Seldom do I come across a blog that's equally educative and amusing,
ReplyDeleteand let me tell you, you've hit the nail on the head.
The issue is an issue that too few people are
speaking intelligently about. I'm very happy I came across this in my hunt for something concerning this.