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Possible Bypass and Pericardiectomy!

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Posted 5/16/2005 4:41 PM (GMT -8)
I am 70 years old, and just had a heart cath and was told I had the thickening around the heart (pericardium).  I go to the Dr Thurs at 1 PM and I know he is going to tell me I have to have a by-pass (they also found two block arteries - one in the back 40% and one in the front 60%).  They usually don't do anything to the blockages as they are low, but since they have to go in to do the pericardium they'll do the two blockages.  I am scared to death.  I read here and most are very young people.  I am also a diabetic and very overweight.  Seems I've been very emotional since Fri when I had the heart cath.  Thanks for listening.  Marlou

(I just edited your title to make it easier for others to know why you are here, Marlou!! :) )

Post Edited By Moderator (Teri16) : 5/16/2005 7:41:23 PM (GMT-6)

Posted 5/16/2005 4:53 PM (GMT -8)
Marlou, welcome to HealingWell!! yeah

 

You've certainly come to the right place for some questions and answers!

 

I can imagine you being worried about age, that's many times a factor in any surgery.  However, sometimes it doesn't seem to matter.  My Grandmother had a bypass when she was in her 80's!  She lived a good many years past that into her 90's and had quality of life.  That's important when making these decisions.

 

We have a complete thread here on Pericardiectomies and if you haven't already read it, please when you get the time, go ahead and read what you can!!  It comes from real people who've been there before and came out ahead!!  We actually have a Pericardiectomy and then Pericardiectomy II thread, since we have numerous members here that have gone through it already, or are planning to go through it soon.

 

As far as them fixing your other arteries when they're in there already, it makes sense to me.  I've already had two stent placements, angioplasties and a triple bypass this past Aug. 2004.

 

I know you are worried, after all, who wouldn't be?  This is a very big step for you or anyone to go through!!  Just know we are here for you and please ask any questions you like, or vent as needed.  Best wishes to you, Marlou!

 

Hugs, Teri tongue

Posted 5/18/2005 10:08 AM (GMT -8)
I do hope I hear from some of you. I am nervous and scared, but I can't go on feeling the way I do. I have such a heavy feeling all across my chest. I read where some of you have this feeling in your throat. I am 70 years old, that is one of the things that scare me. I have 5 small grandchildren that I'd like to see grow up. I really would appreciate hearing from some of you. Thanks Mary Lou
Posted 5/18/2005 1:54 PM (GMT -8)
Hi Marlou and welcome!  I can't offer much in the way of advice since I have not had this kind of a problem but I do want to offer you support and Prayers!  I'm one of the older members of the board, pretty close to you age, and I truly understand how scary any type of surgery is and more scary as we get older.  Just be sure to let your doctor know how scared and nervous you are  and I'm sure he/she will talk with you and even give you meds if needed to help you to keep calmer.   It does help also to have others to chat with that have had similar situations so keep coming back here.  Do you have family that is there for you?  God Bless, Pat  
Posted 5/18/2005 5:36 PM (GMT -8)
I do have family here in Wichita Falls. If I can find out how many surgeries Baylor Hospital in Dallas has done, I think I'll probably go there. I know as a Christain, I need to put all my trust in our Lord, but then I keep taking it back and let the fears dwell in me. I go to the Dr tomorrow at 1PM and my husband, daughter and one daughter-in-law are going with me to the doctor. I think we all have questions. Thanks for e-mailing me, it does make you feel better when you hear from others. May the Lord Best and Keep you. Mary Lou
Posted 5/19/2005 10:34 AM (GMT -8)
Hi Mary~I'm so glad to see you posting!! yeah It's a good thing to have some family members going with you to the Dr. because maybe what you forget to ask, they might remember.  I usually try and bring my husband with me as I always figure 2 sets of ears are better than one! tongue Baylor has a good reputation, but I don't know how many of these surgeries they've done either.  If I find out, I'll let you know.

 

Please take care of yourself, Mary!!

 

Big Hugs, Teri tongue

Posted 5/25/2005 9:13 AM (GMT -8)
Mary, how are you doing?? Hoping you are okay, as okay can be?!

Hugs, Teri :)
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