Chest Discomfort After PCI

[Richie34]

Hi everyone,

Just wondering if it's normal to have left sided chest discomfort following a PCI which I had 10days ago, it doesn't feel 'cardiac' pain as such more a disconcerting ache around my left pectoral muscl extending to my left armpit.

I was expecting to feel rejuvenated but instead have felt achy and anxious following the procedure and expecting everyday to feel better but that's not the case, some forums saying any pain should ease within 48 hours but that's not my experience.

In addition I did have and was treated for flu prior to my procedure.

Any thoughts greatly appreciated

[Casualvisitor]

Hi Richie,

yes it's totally normal my chest discomfort lasted around 3 weeks, even after that when I coughed it bought on a mild but noticeable pain/twinge.

By month 2 it was totally gone.

hope that helps

[Richie34 in reply to Casualvisitor]

Thank you for your reply,yes that is a comfort

[abbottdavid494]

Hi RichieI had PCI with rotablation and 2 stents on 12 Nov last year. Similar to you had localised pain in left side of chest. This is perfectly normal.

I am now pain free and back in the gym lifting weights as though nothing has happened. Feel amazing.

David (aged 52)

[Richie34 in reply to abbottdavid494]

Thanks for your reply David, sounds like a real success. Odd the pre ample doesn't warn you that there can be some after effects from the PCI and because it's your heart can be disconcerting. If I'd have had knee surgery for example I would totally expect the area to be sore afterwards and not think any worried thoughts. Thank again 👊💪

[janeykinsjt81]

It does take a while to go. I had my 2nd HA and 3 furter stents...5 in total and I still het pains. It is scary but I think you are going through stage 1 of what actually happened. I am sure you will be ok. Have you started Cardio rehab yet?

[Richie34 in reply to janeykinsjt81]

Thank you for your message. No, I'm waiting to start rehab, waiting for the cardiac rehab team to send me a letter,not sure what that entails IE times/week or how many weeks but keen to get started and push myself a little to see how I respond. I do find the little spasms disconcerting but I have noticed since the ballon angioplasty my BP is markedly lower,pre op it was in the region of 138/80 now it's in the region of 116/70. I'm due a follow up echocardiogram next week. Hope you continue to recover 🙏

[janeykinsjt81 in reply to janeykinsjt81]

Cardiac rehab is for a period of 8 weeks 2 times a week. They discuss any issues or concerns, wire you to a treadmill to assess your breathing, pain level and if you cannot stand it. I couldn't and the Cnurse stopped it for me. We made a plan and exercised gradually. I got a puppy so I went out walking everyday which I preferrsd as I think fresh air seems better and I enjoy it more. I think after 3 -6 months they should do a stress test to see if your stent is functioning to capacity. If you want info on what this entails let me know nearer the time. PS. Watch out for cold air or extreme heat it can seriously affect our heart so cover your mouth in the cold. Also if you get any pain, fatigue, breathlessness and you think you might br having another HA uae your GTN spray 20 mins apart twice. If this does not allieviate symptoms call 999 and ask for an ambulance. It is a good job I did or I would not be here as I had a 2nd HA and now have 5 stents. Good luck

[Richie34]

Thanks for the heads up on CR, the cardiac nurse came and spoke to me about an hour after my procedure and to be honest I couldn't take it all in plus she was wearing a mask and the ward was very noisy so couldn't hear her properly. Yes went out for a walk today albeit with a scarf wrapped around my mouth and nose, and I'm not sure I was imaging it but my left sided chest pain felt quite bad today but it was a longer walk (2miles) and may have been a little too far on reflection. Good advice about taking my GTN, stupidly I haven't done so so far!🫣Thanks again 🙂