Lucinda at the start of this journey

[PinkySophie]

My name is Lucinda. My husband died last year from a glioblastoma brain tumour. I have been feeling ill for quite some time and all of a sudden last Thursday it all came on really badly. The intense weakness is overwhelming with heart fluttering and something that is squeezing behind my right eye which makes me feel dizzy frequently and makes my vision strange and distorted . I feel as though I am misfiring like a short circuit and I feel as though my whole body is in tremor. I was in an and e on Saturday and the doctor said she could hear a heart murmur and is querying either atrial fibrillation or aortic stenosis. I am walking my cocker spaniels once a day but I can only walk very slowly because I feel so weak. I have an echocardiogram and 24 hour heart monitor next week and the consultant in October. I know it sounds silly but I feel so frightened. I am trying to stay as calm as I can but it is so hard with this coming so suddenly. I don’t want to die before I get treatment - there is so much living to do. It is just me and my cocker spaniels since Alan died. Is anyone there for some support/advice please? Thank you SO much. Lucinda

[080311]

Hello, and welcome to the forum. I am so sorry to read your post, but know you are in the right place for help and support.

Having undiagnosed conditions is a very scary place to be, but know that you are now on their radar and things will be put into place to get you well again.

At the age of 68 I suddenly became very ill never had an illness before ( apart from the everyday things) never been in hospital ( apart from giving birth) I had all the tests and ended up having open heart surgery for a replacement aortic valve and a bypass. 8 years on I am still here! Grateful every day for being given a second chance.

An echocardiogram will show them how well your heart is functioning and the monitor will back this up. When you see your cardiologist he will be able to see if you need any other tests. You might be sent for an Angiogram which is what they call the gold standard, and this test will show even more of what is going on.

We are here to answer your questions and give you a shoulder to lean on if that’s what you need. We have been where you are now, scary I know but remember there is life after something like this, you will be in good hands with your medical team.

I send you very best wishes

Pauline

[PinkySophie in reply to 080311]

thank you so much for your kind, supportive reply. It is comforting knowing there are people who care🪷. Lucinda

[meadfoot]

Dealing with health concerns is not an easy thing to contend with as those of us with various conditions know only too well. You have lost your husband and having to cope with a whole new way of life. That alone is a big ask and now your current health issues add to the stress.

The heart tests you are having will show what is going on. If in the interim you feel ill then go back to a and e or your GP. Dont suffer in silence and worry yourself to distraction. If you can afford it you could pay to see a heart specialist sooner if you feel October is too long.

Remember you know your body the best and if you feel things arent right you need to speak to a relevant medic sooner rather than later. Its not easy in todays medical climate but put yourself first and push if needed. Stress wont be helping you so please seek medical advice rather than worry and exacerbate your symptoms. Once you have a diagnosis you can work with medics to sort things out for you. This not knowing is awful. Best wishes.

[PinkySophie in reply to meadfoot]

thank you so much for your reply. The fact that you care means so much. I am trying my very best. Lucinda

[Happyrosie]

I’m so sorry you are going through it. A strain whilst you are undiagnosed - but, there are things you can do for yourself and for your pet. Both your spaniel and you are missing a loved one, so plenty of gentle walkies, preferably in the countryside or a park so that you can both experience the pleasures of nature.

Then, make sure you look after yourself as far as diet is concerned. You probably feel you don’t want to cook because you used to cook for two and now it’s one. But you still need good nutrition so make an effort to eat healthily with plenty of vegetables to support your body, and drink plenty of water.

Do keep coming back here and keep us I formed so we can offer our support if needed.

[PinkySophie in reply to Happyrosie]

I promise i am trying really hard. Since sll this started last thursday i have thrown my butter away and no more chocolate/sugary things and i am not adding any salt tomy meals. It has scared me so much that i can't face this type if food now. Why is it necessary to drink plenty of water with s heart condition please? Lucinda

[PinkySophie in reply to Happyrosie]

I tried to reply but I don’t think it worked . Thank you so much for your words. They are so understanding and supportive……thank you💐. Lucinda