Breathlessness?: Just thought I’d ask... - British Heart Fou...

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Breathlessness?

Fluffybee profile image
71 Replies

Just thought I’d ask?

With MVA and artery spasms, I know I get breathless when I’ve been walking, or doing things but does anyone get it so you’re sort of out of breath for a short time just doing normal day to day things, as in several out of breath breaths then back to normal.

Think I’ve made a bit of a pigs ear of this question but hope someone may know what I mean 🥴

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Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee
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71 Replies
Sunshinebrew profile image
Sunshinebrew

Yes I can get breathless doing very little just getting up and having a shower can make me breathless and tired when I'm having a bad day

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star

I get breathless too walking up the stairs when I am going through a bad patch.

I can get breathless doing the washing up sometimes....or during a long conversation. Not just with exertion!

Becksagogo profile image
Becksagogo

I'm afraid so. Hoovering can take forever and don't get me started on changing the quilt cover. I have to do these simple things in "chunks" so that I don't wear myself out. The only thing I seem to be able to do is stand and iron and I wonder if that is because I am completely upright.

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toBecksagogo

Understand completely, I try and plan ahead to a point.

I’ve had to stop a lot of work because of it which has a knock on effect.

If I’ve got things to do I plan, like you say ‘chunks’ of things.

I find going upstairs a real challenge most of the time, soooo annoying if I’ve forgotten something and need to go back up, need to take it really slowly.

Changing the bed....... 🙄 is one of the worst. My beautiful dog is getting very old now so only needs a short walk but that can be hard work.

Agree with Mint teaplease that long conversations can also make me breathless.

I needed to put some plants in the garden yesterday, I did one at a time, digging really isn’t a good idea so used hand tools which took forever but at least it’s getting done 😃

Becksagogo profile image
Becksagogo in reply toFluffybee

Oh Fluffybee I do sympathise. I have a hydrangea at the bottom of the garden waiting to be potted but the compost is at the top of the garden so I am having to build myself up to moving them close together! My poor neighbour offered her husbands services and I bet he wishes she hadn't. I try not to use him unless I really can't manage myself. I must admit I didn't expect impending retirement to be like this!

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toBecksagogo

Tell you what, I could help by standing one end of your garden with the compost and you with the hydrangea and gradually meet to wherever you want it, may take a while but bit by bit will speed up the process 🥴!!

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

😊 xxx

in reply toFluffybee

I agree, I get really annoyed with myself if I’ve forgotten something and have to go back upstairs...feels like I’ve used one of my daily “stair credits” for no reason!!! 😤

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply to

I thought we were all counting spoons😊🥄

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply to

That’s a good way of looking at it 😂😂 credits for different tasks, and it is, what a complete waste of credits, I get a pile of things to go either up or downstairs and take them in one go, sadly I drop something on the way up, it seems to be shampoo or something that rolls all the way back to the bottom !!!! Maybe soul destroying credits should be included considering what it takes to get those jobs done !!

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

😂 Lovely to keep a sense of humour! xxxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee

Oh apologies, spoons it is, maybe silver ( not that I have any) for really big achievements and plastic for smaller achievements 🤔

2stents profile image
2stents

Yes that’s me

DeepFriedMarsBar profile image
DeepFriedMarsBar

It's a +1 from me.

McFox68 profile image
McFox68

Yeah, I get out of breath going upstairs and just sitting at my desk if I've been speaking to someone to long.

When I take my washing upstairs and a pair of socks roll off, I tend to swear a lot and just leave them until the next time I have to go up 😂

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toMcFox68

😂 xxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee

I leave whatever I’ve dropped, then throw it upstairs when I’m halfway down, I’m a bad shot so hit the lightbulb once and even gone upwards and straight back on my head !!!!!!!! Whatever next, maybe a backpack would help 🥴

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

😂 Nightmare having to change the light bulb broken in the throwing exercise!!! xxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

It really is 😂😂😂😂 I cannot reach to change the lightbulb so need the stool..... then I need to go back downstairs to get the lightbulb, back up again, by which time I’m exhausted and breathless, finally put the bulb in, all that because I’m trying to save on journeys going up stairs !!!

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

A Stannah stair lift and candles springs to mind 😂! Mind you, if you're anything like me, you'll set fire to the house!!! Keep smiling xxxx

Healthyheart1 profile image
Healthyheart1

Hi Fluffybee, I too am breathless when walking up hill up stairs and there are lots of steps where I work. Good job it's only 2 days. To be quite honest I'm sick of it. Xxx regards and good luck with everything x Sheena x

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHealthyheart1

I know I am, I’m with you on that one big tome, all it takes is a shower and that’s it, my chest feels heavy and achy, makes you feel like not doing anything.

I just do things in stages now, trying to find out how my body reacts to things.

Changed my life completely,

😢

What did you say you have? 🤗🤗

Tindy2 profile image
Tindy2 in reply toFluffybee

I feel the same Fluffybee, I think I just have to find my limitations. I thought things would be better after the stent, but I am so tired most of the time. It’s early days (6weeks ). They say it’s the medication and things will improve with time... I hope so.

Healthyheart1 profile image
Healthyheart1 in reply toFluffybee

Sorry for the late reply, vasospastic angina. X Sheena x

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHealthyheart1

Hi Healthyheart1

How have you been coping with this heat?

Stairs really are something else aren’t they, not brilliant when it’s at work.

Did you have the MRI stress test to diagnose you ?

Keep cool 🤗

Healthyheart1 profile image
Healthyheart1 in reply toFluffybee

Hi, sorry for the late reply. Yes I had a mri stress test.The heat is something else this year. My husband was saying we shouldn't go away abroad if you don't like the heat. Ive told him there's lots of air conditioning on a cruise. We would have been starting our holiday on Thursday this week in Barcelona for 3 nights then on our 7 day Mediterranean cruise oh how life has changed for everyone. Keep safe and cool. X Sheena x

Sunnie2day profile image
Sunnie2day

Mine seems to happen if it is over 21C with humidity higher than 50% - in or out of doors. I have a temp and hygrometer device in the house I carry from room to room, and one on the patio outdoors (in a spot always shaded, the sun never hits it) and if I start to feel short of breath, I look at the device and it's always over my 'limit'. The more over my limit, the more breathless I am.

Sadly the shortness of breath and chest pain seem to go hand in hand - GTN spray has definitely been needed especially the past few weeks:(

Tindy2 profile image
Tindy2 in reply toSunnie2day

Yes Sunnie2day, I have always enjoyed my holidays abroad, but I did notice the last couple of years I’ve struggled with the heat ( should have been a warning maybe ) . My husband loves the heat, but it will be a parasol in the shade for me now .

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toSunnie2day

I love the warmth and heat as do my blood vessels.

I am enjoying the heat as I am having fewer vasospasms so less pain.

It's due to be 34oC again in the South East of England tomorrow....I am going to jump in the paddling pool with our puppy.

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toMilkfairy

Certainly is wonderful in the south east, even hotter tomorrow.

Oh my goodness, a puppy !!!!!!!! What sort have you got ??

I’ve got my Gp ringing tonight as a follow up from my cardiology appointment. 😊

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toFluffybee

That’s a phone consultation in about an hour !!!!!! Get so nervous 🥴

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toFluffybee

Write down your questions.

Take a deep breath before you start!

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toFluffybee

Millie is a Black labrador

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toMilkfairy

Oh my goodness I absolutely love labs 🥰🥰 I’m thinking about having one at some point fairly soon. There’s something sooooo special about a puppy, so inquisitive and their smell!!!!!! You k is what I mean ?

Sunnie2day profile image
Sunnie2day in reply toMilkfairy

A puppy and people splash in the paddling pool sounds the perfect way to enjoy a hot day, excellent way to cool off for both of you!

The reasons I didn't want to believe I might have MVA are my heat-humidity intolerance, and my very high tolerance for cold - I love winter and have got to the point of dreading summer. My cardiologist tells me I'm unique;)

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toSunnie2day

We are all exceptional and unique human beings 😊

NYA2019 profile image
NYA2019 in reply toSunnie2day

You need to move North, Perth is going to be low 20s tomorrow. :)

Sunnie2day profile image
Sunnie2day in reply toNYA2019

I am north of Perth:) I live 'up the glens'.

Dempo profile image
Dempo

I would agree about the temperature and humidity. There is a hill that I can walk up fine on a coolish day, but when it's warmer, ahd especially if it's humid, I am gasping for breath and. have to stop halfway. I tend to only go out for a walk now in the evenings, find it embarrassing to be puffing and panting, and the family get grumpy with me!

And agree about breaking up tasks into chunks, it's the only way for me to avoid the need for a lie down.

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toDempo

I definitely feel it if it’s hot, I thought it was just the cold, I don’t know why that is.

Maybe it’s extremes in temperatures.

I find that people get a bit frustrated with me as I cannot rush around the city like I used to etc. I can understand how they must feel frustrated.

But there’s nothing I or we can do about it which is difficult to deal with 😢

thehypnotist profile image
thehypnotist

I can get breathless for no apparent reason. Sitting watching TV or laying down in bed etc !!

NYA2019 profile image
NYA2019

It sounds like we should all consider moving into bungalows or a flat with a reliable lift if not on the ground floor. :)

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toNYA2019

Sounds absolutely perfect, pharmacy as well and a relaxation room, aaaaahhhhhh

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toFluffybee

A room for our yoga mats 🧘‍♀️

Prada47 profile image
Prada47 in reply toNYA2019

We did that bought a Bungalow and also moved from the North of Scotland to South West England. I still get breathless but it's better being breathless when it seems like you are on Holiday oh and Warm !!

I tend to get breathless after a shower so instead of towelling dry I now just put the towelling dressing gown on, easy way of getting dry !!!

Remember Wash Face Space

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toPrada47

I love the

Wash face space 😊

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toPrada47

Oooooh and a head massage and jacuzzi, getting carried away here, but sure to help us all relax and that on turn is sure to help us all 🤗

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toNYA2019

😂xxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

Just watered the garden and worn out before the day really starts, I have plans of painting the porch, things in the garden, have a clear out of the utility room, etc etc but think that’s a bit ambitious, have chest heaviness already so time to listen to my body and sit down in front of the fan indoors it’s 28 already on the south east 🥵 !!!

Milkfairy profile image
MilkfairyHeart Star in reply toFluffybee

Fluffybee I think you may have used all your spoons up in one go!

Pacing is all about doing activity in small bites rather than all at once!

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toMilkfairy

I do love my spoons but they do go so fast, absolutely brilliant way of monitoring yourself though.

I woke up this morning with that horrible feeling in my stomach that you get when you’re worried about something.

It was the disappointing call from my Gp that made me feel like I’m not really believed!!! 😢

HectorsDad profile image
HectorsDad in reply toFluffybee

What gets me is that one day a particular task uses a spoon, another day it takes three.

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHectorsDad

Agreed, sometimes maybe a ladle is needed, but yes it does seem to be more is needed for some things.

Maybe not to many spoons today, think this spoon idea is brilliant, thanks Milkfairy 😇

Prada47 profile image
Prada47 in reply toFluffybee

Hi Fluffy

When you are finished could you pop round and paint the fence !! it's been looking at me for a while now. I couldn't start because remember the phrase " I have started so I will finish "

I would probably start but not finish.

Remember Wash, Face, Space.

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toPrada47

Ok that’s fine, I’ll be over shortly 😂😂😂😂 anything else needs doing ??? Windows cleaned, grass cut, oven cleaned ????? But before I start I’d need a lovely cold drink with ice cubes, that may take a few hours to drink, then maybe another, so maybe a handy man/woman so we can sit and drink cold drinks and watch how to do it 😂😂😂😂

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

Good grief!! Slow down!!

This heat plays havoc with my diabetes too! What would we do if we didn't have the weather to complain about xxxx

Handel profile image
Handel

😂😂!! xxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

I’ve slowed 😂😂😂 just after watering the garden first thing this morning.!!!!

It was either to much or the heat or both.

39 degrees here today.

I’ve felt better as the day has gone on so haven’t done much at all, worth it to not have chest pain 😊

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

We're in Birmingham so not quite as hot as where you are! The heat just drags you down doesn't it! Take good care of yourself xxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

Definitely does, it’s going to be a hot night, let’s hope we can all sleep well.

You too xx

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

Ice packs and a fan last night!! Too hot here now! Looking forward to predicted thunderstorms next week but they usually skirt around Birmingham and fly off somewhere else. I live in hope.

Look after yourself xxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

It’s was just so hot last night, I bought an ultra silent fan to have in the bedroom as the last one sounded terrible, this one is sooooo much better,

Actually got some sleep. Thunderstorms are predicted here I think Monday/Tuesday.

Keep cool, look after yourself as well 😃

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

My fan is an old Wilko thing that sounds like a Boeing 747 with a cough!! You keep cool too!!! xxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

😂😂😂😂😂😂 that’s hysterical, that’s my old fan described pretty well, not good during the night or anywhere really. You do make me laugh 😇

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

Well, as we all seem to be falling apart at the seams, (I've got cancer and type 1 diabetes and I'm old! - Hubby has not long had a quad bypass and has 2 hernias that will need sorting out soon!) I find a sense of humour helps!!.

You crack me up too!!! 😂😂

Take care - Jan xxxx

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toHandel

Oh my goodness 🤗🤗🤗 you’re one brave wonderful lady 😊

That is a lot to go through, do you have close friends and family nearby ?

Agreed a sense of humour goes a long way,and despite all of us having medical problems support each other 100% when needed and have a bit of a laugh as well which I really like.

Hug on its way 🤗🤗🤗

Handel profile image
Handel in reply toFluffybee

It's good to have lovely friends on this forum. I was diagnosed with inoperable cancer 13years ago (behind the shoulder blade). Despite moaning to doctors for years, it was only discovered when I had neck surgery to repair a couple of discs. Even then I had to insist that something was wrong with my shoulder - reluctantly they took X rays and scanned and a grapefruit sized tumour popped up!! Chemo shrunk the blasted thing to a walnut size and radiotherapy knocked the thing for six. I still have checks but as there are no symptoms, I get discharged again!!

I've been a type 1 diabetic for 35 years after catching chicken pox off my youngest son!!! Never had it as a kid and it nearly killed me! Hey ho. As long as I can get up in the morning and put one foot in front of the other, I'm doing OK.

I've got a lovely family. My one son and his wife and teenage kids live in the Peak District and my other son, his wife and my two gorgeous little grandchildren live quite local. We see a lot of each other.

I just got the hug - thank you! Sending a virtual hug your way xxxxx

Whatamug1 profile image
Whatamug1

and Handel. Thank you you two for keeping me amused - it was delightful and I didn't feel so alone and now have a smile on my face :))

Fluffybee profile image
Fluffybee in reply toWhatamug1

Ahhh just to put a smile on someone’s face when we’re all in this together is great, hope to keep you smiling, how are you ? 😃

Whatamug1 profile image
Whatamug1

I'm fine (that's what you say :)))) thanks and still breathing. Yup, when it's hot and humid it's definitely not necessary to expect the chores to get done. In fact, learning how not to do them is much more important. Just 'potter' as I do and be aware. Stay Safe x

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