Shell shocked

[Powermuscle]

Just had an angiogram, been listed for stents. Additional medications amlodipine and clopidogrel. I have had GTN spray since December. Feels like I'm waiting for a heart attack. Looks like I will not get stents for another 6 weeks. I'm a bit scared, not seen consultant just his assistant and a letter from consultant following angiogram and gp has not really helped with anything I can do in the interim.

[Nathan53]

I can understand you feeling vulnerable as it would have been a shock. Often stents will be done at the same time as angiogram - maybe they deemed it not urgent. Do you know the extent of blockage and which arteries are involved? The medications prescribed are to lower blood pressure help with chest pain and prevent blood clots. If you don't hear anything within the next 4 weeks ring the Consultants Secretary and ask approximately when you will have your procedure. While you are waiting keep active, eat a low saturate fat diet. Sure you will be ok, but if you have any chest pain which is not relieved by GTN spray get immediate attention and I mean by calling 999. Same applies if you have difficulty breathing. Are you on a statin as they can reduce inflammation in your arteries. You can also get advice from a BHF Nurse Mon - Fri by calling 0300 330 3311. Just ask if you have any further questions.

[Powermuscle in reply to Nathan53]

Two of three arteries blocked. 80% and 70%. Thanks for your help though.

[Clerkenweller in reply to Powermuscle]

Great advice from Nathan53. Do not take vigorous exercise, gentle walking only keeping your GTN spray with you at all times. Avoid stress (if possible!) and cut out alcohol would be my only other comments .

[Boharford in reply to Nathan53]

Hi

I had to pay for a CT angio, mainly because I couldn't get travel insurance while waiting, for assessment following worsening Angina pain . Showed two lesser blocked arteries were now significantly blocked. My cardio guy says I am booked for angiogram with stents. The waiting list was 4 to 8 weeks . I have been on it since February 6th now had a date through for procedure on May 29th. So unless we can pay all we can do is sit tight!

[DavidG1971]

I had to pay to be seen - and then again for the Angiogram and stents. NHS were quoting 8 weeks +. Cost me around £9,000 in the end. Saved a lot of worry.

[Benzman]

It is right what has been said that if they had thought it urgent they would have put the stents in when you had your angiogram or very soon after. I waited 4 months for my stents & have now joined the local heart club for exercise and so far going well. Hope you do too.

You could try ringing the hospital and ask if they have any cancellations.