Worried so much about an aaa

[Starbuck]

So I know I’m being totally stupid here but I just can’t stop worrying.

I’ve been having a few problems with very high heart rate (usually always 130+ when standing and around 90-100 at rest) so I’ve been referred to cardiology for that as I’ve been worrying but dr doesn’t seem to bothered about it, I had blood tests and the only thing showing was slightly over the normal size red blood cells which we are keeping and eye on.

I went to the doctors Monday about a lump I’ve become aware of in my tummy, it’s around about my c-section scar so I was thinking it might be scar tissue or something but thought I’d see dr as it’s quite hard.

The doctor looked it over and agreed it was something there, however she seemed more concerned with my stomach. She said I have a very prominent heartbeat around my belly button, and said don’t worry but you may have an abdominal aortic aneurysm, so is going to send me for an urgent ultrasound which will check the aorta and the lump.

So obviously now I am worried, I know I shouldn’t be and google says lots of people can feel the heartbeat in their stomach, and I’m a 39 yr old woman so shouldn’t get this, but this was the doctor saying it not me so I just can’t help thinking she must know the difference and now I’m just waiting for an appointment which due to covid will probably take ages. Sorry to go on but I’m just really worried

[Page12]

Hi, I'm sorry to hear regarding your situation and first please don't get diagnose by Dr Google as half the time a little knock on the knee can be something serious by DR Google. Please don't stress or worry you have been referred and hopefully tests will be done and you know what's going on, in the meantime keep positive mind as worrying will only make your heart beat go even high. Best of luck

[Starbuck in reply to Page12]

Thank you I know I’m being irrational but I’m just a born worrier

[Blackcatsooty]

Exactly 12 months ago i had severe aortic stenosis, given a few months to live. But all hospitals were closing and i assumed i would not survive. Now my point..the nhs picked up those in severe need and we were dealt with, covid and all. Things are much easier now and if urgent you will be processed. So if serious you will be seen and if its not urgent then you have nothing to worry about.I know you will probably worry for England anyway, but i am living proof that things are in hand.

Best wishes

Colin

[Starbuck in reply to Blackcatsooty]

Thank you and glad to hear you are doing well

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello. I suspect the delay for an ultrasound scan will not be too long. I have had a scan of the aorta and it only took about 10 minutes. The only time it takes longer is if there is something untoward when they will check in more detail. Sometimes severe obesity can make imaging more difficult.

Unfortunately heart disease of all kinds can strike at any age. The popular image is that it is the reserve of obese couch potatoes that smoke and get drunk in front of the TV. Sadly not. It is not worth the energy thinking "Why me". It sounds like you have an excellent GP. If you do not get an appointment through in say two weeks chase it up - as I said it is a quick simple test.

[Starbuck in reply to MichaelJH]

Thanks very much, I only went Monday but will try and get back in touch with them if I haven’t heard in 2 weeks as she said I should get in touch if I didn’t hear from them. I’ve actually lost a lot of weight recently so I suppose that’s good as they should be able to get a good image for once, dr did actually say this I something they could have missed as I’ve always been pretty overweight.