Does anyone use a peak flow meter

[Davewm]

I’m completely baffled. I had an Echocardiogram 2 weeks ago. Had a Triple Bypass and Mitral Valve Repair 18 months ago. Last September getting more & more breathless and dizzy. Appointment with cardiologist cancelled in January. Collapsed in March. Hospital for 3 days - discharged with Heart Failure diagnosis. Due to have a phone consultation 10 May. The echo results have been sent to GP to pursue respiratory investigations as breathlessness not explained by echo.

I’ve now been given a peak flow meter and an inhaler. (I had pneumonia 3 times as a child and was diagnosed with Bronchiectasis - 50 years ago!) Before surgery I had a lung function test which was considered good as I sing in a choir and did gigs in care homes, not now of course. First 3 readings 550, 600, and another 550.

The echo says “unable to fully exclude ASD/PFO” - what does this mean? I asked the GP if this can cause breathlessness and he said “it can but it’s rare”!

As an aside I don’t know how anyone else gets on with phone consultations but I find them very difficult.

Been waking at 4am as I’m so frustrated and confused.com

Thanks for reading this.

Kind regards

David

[jeanjeannie50]

Hi Dave

This link should explain it for you:

heart.org/en/health-topics/...

[Davewm in reply to jeanjeannie50]

Thanks I’ll have a look.Cheers David

[Mentdent]

ASD, PFO atrial septal defect and patent foramen ovale. Left overs from before birth when our lungs aren’t working yet. Basically holes in the heart and often symptom free unless you’re a diver , which I was until my HA 6 weeks ago. If your peak flow meter says you’re ok you probably are.

I like phone stuff, saves sitting around in waiting rooms, traipsing half way around Shropshire looking for parking spaces. They suit me.

[Davewm in reply to Mentdent]

Thanks for reply.👍