vasospastic angina and heart catheterization

[Andy5S]

I am wondering how often those with this condition get a heart cath. done? I had one when first diagnosed couple years back.

Do others have one periodically done as a checkup or not? It seems here you only get another if something wildly different happens to you in terms of symptoms. Is it diagnosed and then assume everything you experience is attributed to that condition. It sounds silly to say..

[fishonabike]

Heart catheterization is what is refered to as an invasive procedure and it carries a small risk, so it is only carried out when there is a need for this specific procedure - there are other investigations which can be done to show most things an angiogram would reveal so these are often preferred

[Andy5S in reply to fishonabike]

I agree , you are right thanks! Sometimes you just need to hear others say it as odd as that sounds.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

I have had 2 invasive angiograms.The second was a functional angiogram using acetylcholine in 2014.

I had spontaneous and acetylcholine induced coronary vasospasms and my diagnosis of vasospastic angina was confirmed.

My vasospastic angina is monitored non invasively by echocardiograms, blood tests and regular clinic appointments.

When I had a perfusion MRI, the increase in my heartrate caused by the adenosine, triggered my coronary vasospasms.

I ended up in A&E as a result.

My very experienced interventional Cardiologist and I have no desire for me to have another interventional angiogram unless absolutely necessary.

Vasospastic angina often waxes and wanes. I am always more symptomatic during the colder winter months.

After 13 years I know this is the way it goes for me.

[Andy5S in reply to Milkfairy]

Yes , I think I struggle with the acceptance bit occasionally and can get paranoid. Since I have some other health issues besides my heart it causes me to go through these phases of being edgy. My cardiologist says the exact same thing you are relaying here. He leans towards echo and other non-invasive tests.

I am learning that when things ramp up in terms of symptoms I can get a little panicky which is why I have always said there is an emotional component to this condition that also needs to be contended with. Thanks for reminding me of this!

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to Andy5S]

I found attending a Pain Management Programme helpful. One of the strategies we were taught was Mindfulness Meditation.

I learned to respond emotionally in a different way to my pain.

We have no control over our pain however, we can learn to respond in a non judgemental way.

Maybe have a look at Vidyamala Burch's book,

'Living Well With Pain And Illness'

[Eeee13]

hi Andy5S

I’ve had 2 cardio versions which failed to get my heart back into rhythm. So far I’ve had 2 cardio ablations which were successful but for limited time. I’m waiting for a 3rd imminently. Using new tech Optrell mapping catheters my London hospital has ordered them in specially to treat me so I will be their first.. It can be done several times if required. As no meds work for me and so surgery hasn’t been really successful I’m now classed as a complex case. Rest assured you’re not on your own. There is still help available.