I'll ask you guys. I am still confused.

[annaaurora]

I'll try this forum, because I'm not just a valve chick anymore, and I'm not quite a transplant person yet, however I am going to a Transplant and Heart Failure Center. I had my Mitral Valve repaired, which was originally to be replaced, when he was in there he found he could spare me from Cumidin (sp?). I was doing well. Working out with my little old men at the hospital. I should say I was and am a round, 48 year old woman who seems to be dealing with the possibilities of death, or other stuff by buying cha cha shoes, and clothes, all the while complaining about money. Negative until I was called on it the other day. My husband, one of my friends, and one of my Dr's.

Back to story... the Mitral Valve began to regurgitate again. When I had emergency surgery it was 4+ I guess. It's now back to moderate. This is what gets confusing. My Cardio is no dumb cluck, and of course the team is not either. The team says there's some stenosis going on, where as my cardio thinks not so much and that I'm regurgitating more than what they are seeing. I am in no way saying one is better than the other. Quite the opposite, I don't know if you guys ever feel this but I wanted to fire everyone a couple a weeks ago. So in reality I don't know how sick I am. I know that I'm exhausted all the time. Some days worse than others. Tests take longer than ever. My Heart MRI 1 hr and :40. Also, what kind of drugs you all on? I am currently taking 16 pills a day. About 5 yrs ago I had a mental breakdown, I was finally diagnosed so I counted those drugs to. I am really good about keeping under 2000 salt. Alcohol is hard, way way better. My Cardio took me out of work for the rest of my life. Not my choice at all. I loved my job. Worked there for 17yrs, was going to retire there. So maybe they're seeing something they're not telling me. Tell me your thoughts. Does this process make you crazy?

[Flycaster305]

Why not talk to the social workers at the hospital where you had your procedures?  Given the new National Health Care as well as most hospital's help for those who need it, I'd think you would find a way to continue to exercise.  
I was the poster boy for poor cardiac health 15 years ago when I had my first heart attack, but weight loss, cardiac diet and exercise have kept me going.  I'm struggling again, my new issue is a bad valve, so I've been where you are.
Do me a favor, talk to your 'your guys'.  They probably would like your friendship, and you would benefit of being of service to someone.  That is a heart-healthy activity.
Keep us posted.  

[annaaurora]

Thanks for writing, I have no aversion to my guys. Just right now I can't afford the work outs, working on that. Just switching to COBRA etc. On some level when I was finally given the word about work.... I guess, never mind.

I'll check on the 1,000mg. Were you a big foodie before all of this? The nice thing about my heart is that I'm not clogged at all. My valves are very brittle said the surgeon. I painted pottery for 15 yrs. which used as a base ground glass. Trust me when I say this I am  messy artist. I on some level just need to talk. I'm keepin' on, but man o man. Have a good day.

[Flycaster305]

Ouch.  Your aversion to working out with old men and worried about clothes is something I'll try and ignore.
2000mg salt is way too much, in my opinion.  Health and diet professionals ask those with heart issues to limit salt to under 1000mg.  
Have you asked for a BNP test to determine your heart failure rate?  If not, I suggest you do.  
I'm sorry you must end your work and career, that is very difficult.  You might find a way to volunteer, it certainly was a bridge for me.  I still work part time, and have a 4+ mitral valve leak.  I'm also 73 years old, one of your old guys who went to rehab.  Never give up, just keep in the game.