Having first visit with a cardiologist tomorrow

Marie5656

Marie5656

SF VIP
Location
Batavia, NY
When I went to my primary doctor a couple weeks ago, I mentioned I easily get out of breath with exertion...like walking, bringing in groceries, stuff like that. I have high BP. She did an EKG in her office, and it was fine. But she suggested I see a cardiologist, and referred me. She told me he will probably want to do a stress test.

I am a but nervous, but I know stuff like this can be a part of getting older. Heart issues were prevalent on my dad's side of the family, but only with the men.
 

Stay calm if you can Marie....it'll make the results look better, he he.....kidding aside just do your best if the treadmill test is included....
will be thinking of you and keep us informed 👍💗
 

Remember, surgery is a money maker: Always, always get 2nd opinion for another
cardiologist before any surgery. Always, always, always...
Cardiologist should recommend, diet, exercise, Rx...before surgery is even mentioned.
 
@Marie5656
Usually they would give just a general intake check-up, with lots of questions...on that first visit;

And they usually would schedule separately for a later date, anything they might decide on, such as the stress test,
or sometimes, an ultrasound, which is not bad to have and gives loads of info.
 
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@Pepper I have never heard of a chemical stress test. I will look it up this evening.

I did eat a more heart healthy diet when my husband was still alive, as he needed. Still eating healthier, but not as strict as before. Never add salt to cooking..but we all know how much hidden salt we eat.

I am hoping that for now, just diet and exercise will help. Do not really want more meds.
 
The cardiologist might decide you do not need a stress test, Marie.

If they want one, then they decide which way they think is best for you. The 'chemical' one is when they give you just that one time med, to get your heart rate up, while they test it, instead of having you run on the treadmill till it's high enough.

We'll be thinking of you.
 
Don't worry, Marie. We are lucky to have access to such good medical care. As some have said, the first exam will probably be questions, another ecg and an ultrasound. If a stress test is needed, the treadmill is not too bad. The aim is to get your heart rate up and to monitor it while it is working hard.

The chemical stress test sounds easier but it gives you a monster headache afterwards. There is an antidote on offer that cancels the headache and if that is on offer I suggest you take it. I tried to act tough and declined the offer but once the headache hit me I understood what the phrase "Kill me now" was all about and I meekly asked for the antidote.

You may also be sent for some sort of nuclear medicine imaging which can be a bit tedious but remember that all of these tests are to give the doctors a clear indication of the condition of your heart and arteries. Because, like you, there has been family members with cardio vascular conditions in my background, I have been looked after by a cardiologist for some years now but all I have needed has been some BP and cholesterol meds. The cardiologist last time I saw him he told me that I was about average for my age and that I needn't come back unless there is a problem. However, before any surgeries I have had to get a clearance from a cardiologist to make sure I can handle the anesthesia.
 
I've had all the cardio tests known to man, Marie. They aren't all that bad, considering. Also, I don't know if there is a reason why surgery was mentioned, but unless you have blockage or a valve issue, it probably won't be considered. Do you know if you have COPD? That also will contribute to shortness of breath. A simple test can determine that. At any rate, good luck and think positive.
 
Lewkat said:
I've had all the cardio tests known to man, Marie. They aren't all that bad, considering. Also, I don't know if there is a reason why surgery was mentioned, but unless you have blockage or a valve issue, it probably won't be considered. Do you know if you have COPD? That also will contribute to shortness of breath. A simple test can determine that. At any rate, good luck and think positive.
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I am like Lewkat, every cardio test known to man, and have had them several times. I see two different cardio docs. I refused heart surgery and am still alive 😂. I have three sons that have had heart surgery-different types of surgery for each one.

I know you are nervous, Marie, but you will be fine.
 
Lewkat said:
I've had all the cardio tests known to man, Marie. They aren't all that bad, considering. Also, I don't know if there is a reason why surgery was mentioned, but unless you have blockage or a valve issue, it probably won't be considered. Do you know if you have COPD? That also will contribute to shortness of breath. A simple test can determine that. At any rate, good luck and think positive.
Click to expand...
I brought up the question of surgeries. I was referring to knee replacements and the like. Hope that clears things up. I didn't mean to cause alarm.
 
Thanks. I do not think surgery would be n the table. My BP is stable with the meds. I do not keep a perfect diet, but I keep a good one. My ekgs have always been OK. I have no chest pains to speak of. Just the breathing.
I have never been diagnosed with COPD. Never had issues like this before last few months. I know I will have to significantly change my diet, and lose more weight. THAT is a given.

My appt is first thing in morning...so you will hear from me in afternoon. Baring something unforseen, I am taking advantage of the fact that the grocery store is down the street. Doing some shopping afterward.

@Warrigal my only major surgery has been a hip replacement in 2008
 
Don't be nervous, Marie. The first visit will be a lot of listening to your heart, taking BP, etc. At my annual physical last January, my PCP noticed an irregularity in my heartbeat, some kind of extra beat and is intermittent (called a "PVC"). I got referred to a cardiologist for the usual tests... EKG, echo, a treadmill stress test, and came home wearing a heart monitor for a week. They found everything normal except for the occasional extra heartbeats, which my cardiologist says is fairly common and no cause for alarm.

If you are able to walk fairly fast on a treadmill, I'd recommend doing the stress test that way instead of the chemical injection. Hopefully you won't even need further testing. Good luck!
 
My Mom's side they all had heart problems later in life and passed on from attacks and strokes so, like you Marie, I've been expecting to get the same but so far so good in that area.....been to the ER three times over the last ten years with all the symptoms of a heart attack and nothing....all my issues always stem from my gut and esophagus issues that mimic heart problems.....I get the shortness of breath just doing little physical things, get the pain in my chest and down the left arm too, every once in a while but its alway related to my gut....
You're not alone in this.....just keep thinking of us decrepid forum friends that experience your stuff and more, oh joy.
 

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