Not sure what my letter means

[Shado-Straker]

Hi! I’m a 36 year old male with a family history of heart disease. Normally fit and well. I have just had a transthoracic echo. The cardiologist was happy with the scan. However in the letter he wrote “He has normal bi-ventricular systolic function with no significant valvular disease”. Does this mean I have some valvular disease or am I over thinking this? My grandad died at 58 after a 2nd heart attack. Thanks.

[Hidden]

Hi, good that you're normally fit and well, so why the echo?

[Shado-Straker in reply to Hidden]

I started with ectopic beats at Christmas time. Most likely linked to stress, it was a very rough few months personally. I went to a&e as they lasted for more than a week, who then referred me to the cardiologist. I do have postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, but this is well under control.

[Hidden in reply to Shado-Straker]

Makes sense to me now. You did the right thing going to A&E, my Cardiologist has always told me that should be my first option and don't bother with the GP.

I wouldn't mind coming away from an echo, with no significant valvular disease....😃

[Tessie28 in reply to Hidden]

yup blowed if I would go to my GP first. Much as I like him he had no clue with the valve disease and operation. I reported back to him a few weeks after OHS that my heart surgeon wants my BP below 140. " oh we would all like that, ho ho" ...Yes but most of us haven't got a new heart valve.

[Shado-Straker]

Thanks for replying. That makes sense. I’m sure if there was anything untoward I’d know about it! 🙂

[MountainGoat52]

This very much sounds like "consultant speak". They cannot give any of us a 100% completely clear bill of health because we live in a litigious society and they won't leave themselves open to legal action. I've found positive news given to me face to face in a consultation has been watered down when put in writing.

[Shado-Straker in reply to MountainGoat52]

That's very interesting! It's almost like they have to part Dr part lawyer these days.

[Tessie28]

Sounds okay to me..... Following my valve replacement in hospital I had a few issues. They had to do two brain scans. when they reported back to me they said "nothing of significance " . I laughed...okay not too much as my scar was new. cheers Tessie

[Shado-Straker in reply to Tessie28]

Haha! They could have worded that better..