Feel like things are getting worse …

[Skelligman]

I posted a few days ago about my post LAD stent issues (performed 24th October). Until about 2 weeks ago I was feeling like things were improving and I could start doing longer walks, but then I started to get really short of breath. I discussed changing from Ticagrelor to Clopidogrel with GP and this was agreed with cardiology. However before this happened I went to A&E as SOB and chest pain was much worse. All bloods normal no raised troponin A&E consultant advised likely some residual angina, or possible microvascular variant following LAD stent. As a result she prescribed nicorandil in addition to the ranolazine I’m already on - is this normal?

I’ve now started this (2 x 10ml), I’ve done the switch to clopidogrel with an 300mg loading dose and I’m feeling absolutely awful - headaches, fatigued, still some chest pain and tight around the ribcage). I’m aware of advice not to take a PPI with clopidogrel (I was taking 2 x 20mg esomeprazole when on the Ticagrelor), so was thinking of switching to famotidine. But I’m concerned that this could make things even worse. I was really hoping to be able to take fewer medications rather than more.

Anyone have any ideas or similar experiences? I’m feeling really debilitated and depressed and not looking forward to Christmas. Thanks in advance

[Czech_Mate]

My heart issues are very different from yours, but wanted to comment on the "not feeling like facing Christmas" issue. I find I need to try to tell people that I'm not trying to spoil their fun, but I sometimes need some time to myself. I'll join in at my level as I see fit.

Of course if you have serious issues, seek medical help.

I wish you a gentle, peaceful time and strong nerves. CM

[iansHealth1]

In the early days after my HA and stents, I was in a terrible state - couldn’t even drink water without it coming back up - so the medics were trying different drugs to try and help.

Eventually after an extended stay in hospital - this time two years ago - and lots of different drugs, they got it right and I’ve been on most of them since.

One thing I have learned is that a lot of the drugs they put us on, take a while to work. So you have to give them time.

Good luck with it.

[purpleleah]

So sorry to hear that, especially at this holiday time. My issues don't seem as bad as you but i really resonate with the disappointment of not feeling 'bionic' after having a stent fitted! Also the frustration of working out what different drugs are actually doing to my body and whether they are causing me to feel rubbish. I think we need to turn inwards to fully experience compassion for our own bodies during these tough times and that is counter the jollity of Christmas. I encourage you to do what feels right for you. Easier said than done, I know!

Wishing everyone all the best for this festive season.

[DoctorZchivago in reply to purpleleah]

Hi! So sorry to hear you are still feeling unwell!

I had a heart attack Nov 23 , which was really only picked up on by my triponin levels, had an angiogram after much discussion, and stent fitted there and then! My LAD was 90% blocked. Got on the road to recovery then like you had issues walking, short of breath after just a short distance. Back to doctors in June 23, referral back to consultant, advice it didn’t sound as if it needed looking at! Symptons continued, got worse , chased appt told one year wait on nhs for urgent appt! Long story short-paid for private consultant who then put me back on nhs for an immediate angiogram. My LAD 100% blocked- my stent had either failed or I cannot tolerate stents- I was discussed at a hospital MDT meeting and advice was try controlling with meds if not it would be an operation/ heart bypass. Meds didn’t improve it, nor gave me confidence to be able to”live” the rest of my life. I made this decision within just a few weeks! My cardiologist referred me to heart surgeon who then advised me & had me in for a single heart bypass within a week. So from going from no further action required, medication can control it -to immediate surgery?!

Now one month post op, yes it’s been very scary, and of course doubts over what the future may hold, but I am dong everything I have been told to do and on the road to recovery. I shall question drugs I am on in my 6 week check up, and try and make the most of everyday. With family & friends with us on our journeys, and now I have found this group for support and everyone sharing experiences and feelings/ you are not alone! Reach out & ask questions ! Good luck.

Merry Christmas My Friends.

[Davey77]

I've never been given any advice about PPIs with Clopidogrel. My dose of Lanzoprazol was doubled after a recent operation on a bladder tumour and I was told to resume Clopidogrel, which had to be stopped a week before the op.

The only issue I can definitely put on Clopidogrel is bruising. Any pressure on the skin, even with a finger will usually cause a bruise.

Although this was sent to me because I have previously mentioned Clopidogrel, I would suspect some of the other cocktail of drugs you are on are more likely culprits. I thought the collection I was given of Clopidogrel, Bisoprolol and Rivaroxaban was the standard.

I can say the worry that any effects seeming to relate to the chest are more heart problems doesn't really go away. You just start to become more aware of the causes being things like back problems. At least your GP is taking some notice. I have to rely on the nurse from my Cardiac Rehab class for any advice.