Life after stents

[fairgo45]

A few months ago I had to have 2 stents inserted into almost blocked arteries.

Does anyone know how likely other arteries are likely to do the same and what I can do to prevent it happening again.

I'm on 80mg statin so far no side affects so cholesterol numbers are great but I'm worried about another blockage happening as mine were only diagnosed by chance after an echocardiogram.

Any advice welcome

Ps I also have atrial fibrillation

[firstlight40]

Hello, I can understand your worry and concern. When the angioplasty was done it's likely that the other main arteries in your heart would have been checked using xrays and dye contrast to see their condition. This should have been documented in your discharge letter you would have been given. If you are unsure I suggest you contact your GP or cardiologist.

Statins will help slow down the progression of heart disease along with the other recommendations of regular exercise, a good diet, no smoking and limited alcohol. But everyone is different and I'm sure it would be helpful for you to know if all is OK with your heart arteries.

[fairgo45 in reply to firstlight40]

Thanks for the reassuring advice I was a bit concerned because the surgeon said when he put the balloon with stent in the LAD the plaque crumbled and he had to work fast to get the stent in place

I saw the cardio nurse a few days ago and she had a diagram of my heart and where the blockages had been she said it looked good but that's not the same as seeing it for myself.

[fairgo45]

Mine is family orientated as well my 4 siblings all have heart issues 2 have had triple bypasses one died age 49 that's what worries meI want to do everything I can to make sure it will be ok but I'm scared as I also have atrial fibrillation thanks for your advice though I'm reassured a bit

[Sprinst]

Hi I have lived with 2 stents for over 8 years now and like many take the usual meds. They have been checked via angiography twice with no issue. I rarely use my GTN spray and recognise that I cannot do what I used to. I think sometimes you can really worry and too much info doesn't help. For me recognise that things are different and adapt accordingly and you will enjoy most things. Exercise helps and is important more so as I have arthritis for me. Good conversations with the medical teams also helps but you need to ask rather than wait for them to tell you. For example asking what to expect 🤔 its easy to get dragged down but if you consider what would have happened 20 yrs ago it puts it in context. Its not a great position having stents but it keeps you going and potentially for a long time if you manage the situation recognising your limitations if you don't it will define who you are...I don't accept that I can't do some things I used to but there is a lot I can and still do and actually few know I have stents fitted. Take care smile and enjoy everything...

[fairgo45]

Ah thanks that's so encouraging I suppose because it's relatively new for me I feel vulnerable I'm still on anti platelet drugs for a few more months and warfarin for atrial fibrillation and I have a few drugs to treat that as well.I thought after the stents I would be able to breathe more easily but not so.

We recently moved to a house with 4 acres so I want to be more energetic perhaps I should be more patient but I will bring up the questions that have been mentioned when did you have your angiogram post stents?

[Stentrunner]

I had stents put in the LAD 18 months ago. The consultant said two other arteries might need doing later if they got worse. I’ve also developed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in the last six months, but this seems well-controlled by Tildiem. I followed rehab assiduously and now run 5k three times a week. I’ve had no recurrence of angina whatsoever so I’m hoping the other arteries are ok. So it’s certainly possible to resume an active lifestyle. Listen to your body; follow professional advice. Enjoy it.

[fairgo45]

Thanks for that information very helpful good luck with the A/fib

[Fynndog]

Too many people dont t talk themselves into muscle wastage caused by statins. Many many people would love the security of taking that statin in the hope it would be life saving.