Words of advice please

[atomic74]

Hi, I have had AF for 12 years, my aortic valve resituated, and then last November I was helicoptered to Southmead hospital after heart failure, and a stent fitted. Now I am having difficulty in inhaling deeply, no pain, or infection. Am waiting for another scan, but am told by Docs that the heart has probably been damaged by the seizure. So I am asking for a few words as to how long is a damaged heart that is not working as it should be expected to last before it decides it has had enough of working too hard? I celebrated my 80th on 18th Feb,and had a family party which was wonderful!

[CDreamer]

Hi - it sounds like you are asking for some reassurance and are having difficulty living with the uncertainties, which is natural enough as you have obviously been through such a lot.

Unfortunately I feel unqualified to give words of assurance and certaintity and I rather doubt anyone else can either.

The benefit of living in the moment is to truly experience and enjoy that moment - and I think that is all anyone can do as we cannot predict what will happen in the next moment.

So glad you enjoyed your party, lovely memories.

Very best wishes CD,

[Hidden]

I don’t think anyone could add to CD’s reply. Savour every moment and let’s hope you get many more moments of joy in the future.....best wishes......

[doodle68]

Hello Atomic you say....

''So I am asking for a few words as to how long is a damaged heart that is not working as it should be expected to last before it decides it has had enough of working too hard? ''

It is surprising how tough and resilient bodies can be so don't be too pessimistic.

If you are having trouble inhaling deeply maybe some breathing exercises may help and possibly an inhaler of some kind.

I would have a chat with your Doctor to see if they can suggest anything and start making plans for your 90th party

[Hidden]

Hello atomic74

I think you probably know already that only your doctors have the information necessary to answer your question about how long your heart will last. Why do you want or need to have the answer, what would be a good or good enough answer for you?

I can't give you evidence, but I am fairly sure your heart will last a lot longer if you are determined that it will. By your own standards, do you feel you have a good quality of life?

Wishing you well

Oyster

[MtLSteven]

How long has your heart left before it "..decides it has had enough of working too hard.." Today. Tomorrow. Next week. Next month. Next year. Next decade.

[Buffafly]

Hi, when I had trouble breathing deeply the reason was fluid in the lungs but I expect your doctor has checked that? A visit to the BHF site is cheering if you read the stories of people living with heart failure. Some of them seem to be more energetic than I am!