Palpatations after MVR

[Patty29]

Hello! I've got a question for ya'll.

I had a MVR 8/15/2001 for Severe Mitral Regurgitation. My cadiologist also mentioned an insuffient Aortic Valve. (I suppose not bad enough for replacement.)

Recently, I've had pretty severe palpatatios after any kind of exertion. I get a heavy feeling in my chest, SOB, severe sweating and an irregular heart beat - it feels like it is slowing down to the point of stopping! My cardiologist did a Holter test and said it looked fine. The only thing he did was increase my BP meds because it was elevated. These palpations are now increasing in frequency. Should I demand more testing? Echo? Stress test?

Any advice would be appreciated!!!

 

[wlaldridge]

Not a doctor!! But, sure sounds to me like some classic symptoms that should get any cardio's attention. He, at least, should explain why they don't mean anything. I would want a definative answer, if he won't or can't give it to you--seek another opinion.

Good luck

 

[wlaldridge]

Oh, welcome to this wonderful site. I know you will bet support and many useful answers here.

Best of Luck,

Bill

 

[JimL]

Welcome Patty, another Illinoisan! I grew up there a few years ago, on the south side.
Palpitations are rather common after surgery. You should definitely talk to the doctor, since some are serious. Most aren't, but do be aware of them. I had some while driving, and felt like I was going to pass out -- not the appropriate time for that.
There are drugs available to regulate the heart beat, but some of them have very serious side effects.
Some of us get along well with taking magnesium supplements. I take a little over 500 mg per day.

 

[Nancy]

Hi Patty-

Welcome to this fantastic site. There is so much info here from those who have walked the walk or watched a loved one do the same.

While irregular heart beats happen after surgery and are expected, I think I would really push your cardiologist to examine them further. Here's how you described them, they happen after "any kind of exertion. I get a heavy feeling in my chest, SOB, severe sweating and an irregular heart beat - it feels like it is slowing down to the point of stopping!"

How about asking for an event monitor? Holters are usually on for fairly brief periods of time, but event monitors, at least with my husband have been on for a month, giving a much better opportunity to catch those spells.

My husband has had 3 valve surgeries, and if he were exhibiting these symptoms, he would be on the doctor's doorstep for a diagnosis.

Hopefully it'll just mean an adjustment in your meds. But, please do press the issue.

 

[Ross]

Howdy Neighbor:

It seems that Cardiologists are becoming more lazy as time progresses. I agree with the others. Get a second opinion ASAP. This particular Dr. may not have your best interest in mind.

 

[Creed3]

Totally agree with the others. You definately need to get a second opinion. Everyone deserves a doc who will answer any and all of their questions. Good Luck!

Creed3

 

[RonP]

Irrregular Rhythm

Irrregular Rhythm

Patty:

After I had my aortic valve replaced, I too had bad rhythm to such an extent I had cardiac arrests and had to get both a pacemaker and a defibrillator. I was told after surgery that many times scar tissues form that interrupt or redirect the electrical signals in the heart and this causes the arrhythmias.

It would be worth getting checked out for a cardiologist should be able to answer these questions for you.

RON P.