As some of you know, I've struggled with arrhythmia problems, rapid heart beat, and dizzy spells for a number of years now. I've worn a holter monitor multiple times since I was in my 40's. I've worn a 30 day event monitor more times than I can count. I don't want to begin to calculate how many visits to the ER I've made. Then, there have been all the other cardiac tests that have been inconclusive. We know I have arrhythmia problems, and supra ventricular tachycardia (rapid heart beat), and we know that at times my blood pressure drops way too low, but so far, nothing has helped my heart spells.
Finally, I was referred to a specialist at the University of Colorado Hospital in Denver. Tomorrow, he will insert a heart catheter into my heart to do an electrical study. If he finds it necessary, he will do a heart ablation. He also plans on inserting a looping monitor implant under the skin over the heart area. I've never heard of such a device before meeting Dr. S, and I certainly can't explain to you what it does. I did provide a link if you are interested. I am hopeful that we will get to the bottom of my re-occurring problems and find answers for that which has compromised my quality of life for too long.
I am grateful to have been referred to this doctor. I am also grateful that he seems to think that we can get things fixed up for me. The facility itself is huge, but we are learning our way around the place, and know how to get where we are going early tomorrow morning. I know I will be in good hands.
If an ablation is done, I will be hospitalized overnight. Otherwise, I will be released after I recover from the catheterization. We plan on spending Friday night in Denver even if I am not hospitalized. Neither of us want to fight holiday traffic after a day at the hospital.
Now, I must get to bed. I am getting just a bit nervous, but thankfully I know what to expect since I had a catheterization a year ago. 5:00 a.m. comes early. We are staying just across the street from the main facility. That will give us a short commute. So, off to bed I go. I'll update you as soon as I can.
I'll be thinking of you tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteYou should be on your way to the hospital right about now. It's 7:30 here, so I think that means 5:30 where you are. I know the procedures will go well, and I hope you get answers, finally. Thinking of you today!
ReplyDeletebest wishes for answers and better health!
ReplyDeleteSerious stuff, but hopeful, too.
ReplyDeleteI wish you safe travels and a positive resolution to your long journey of the heart.
Love and prayers coming your way now!
ReplyDeleteThinking of you this morning...be well, my friend.
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ReplyDeleteA friend had an ablation for afib and it really helped. You are in my prayers for a successful test and resolution of your problems.Please let us know.
Sending you all the positive energy I can gather up in my arms and wend across the blogosphere. Hugs, too, dear Sally. :-)
ReplyDeleteHope it has all turned out well and that this procedure will help you feel better. It's hard to not know what is wrong and what will make it better.
ReplyDeleteThis comes with an after-the-fact prayer as I have just now begun a session with my computer. Your doctor sounds most competent, experienced and up on the latest. I am eagerly waiting for and praying for that positive update.
ReplyDeleteOh, by now you have made it through! I hope the results prove to be helpful in discovering the cause of your heart problems. After all these years wouldn't a fix be wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI hope by now you have heard some positive news and know all will be well.
ReplyDeleteI've come late to this because of being away, Sally, and do hope it all went well for you.
ReplyDeleteOh yes, I always get nervous before being put under too. I'm relieved to know that all did go well.
ReplyDeleteVisiting you late, Sally - I'm still on blog break. (We sold the Denver house and are preparing for the move and closing end of Sept.) I'm so happy your procedure went well. I know that chilly room and the skinny table! Let us know how your diet is progressing - we're cheering for you and your good health.
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