What to ask cardiologist this afternoon?

[dee1013]

I’m seeing the cardiologist later on after my angiogram a few weeks ago showed narrowing in 3 arteries.

What should I be asking him?

Thanks.

[Bassman65]

A few things come to mind but most importantly write your questions down and write their answers to them

1. What exactly do they mean by narrowing?

2. Is it treatable with medication?

2a. If yes, is it long term or can it be decreased over time (I.e. will the arteries improve or just be prevented from worsening)

2b. If no, what treatment is available and are there any alternatives (less aggressive options than surgery)

3. If surgical intervention is necessary:

3a. how long will you be in hospital for?

3b. How long is the recovery?

3c. Does someone need to be with you when you get home and if so how long for?

3d. Is there a rehabilitation plan?

I sure others her can offer thee advice as well, this is just what came to mind....

[dee1013 in reply to Bassman65]

Great thanks.

When I had the angiogram I was told quite bluntly that I may need to consider bypass. Total shock. I only went to gp with a “funny tight feeling”. Not even pain!

[Bassman65 in reply to dee1013]

My experience was a little different but the same thing applies, if you don’t have questions there and then you often can’t get answers, as the shock of what you’re being told kind of dampens the questioning part of your mind...

[Prada47]

Hi dee1013,

My wife tells me to Listen and not to go off down the wrong track ! which is surprisingly easy when your being ( maybe ) told some scary information. If at all possible take someone else with you, 2 people listening tend to retain and be able to recall what was said, Good Luck hope it all goes well.

regards