Post-Partum Cardiomyopathy

[madnikki]

I am a 26 yr. old woman who just gave birth to twins. I returned to the hospital 3 days later because I was having trouble breathing. I was diagnosed with post partum cardiomyopathy. My lungs had fluid in them so I was given diuretics while there to remove excess fluid. The doctors that treated me in the hospital didn't give me a whole lot of information and I am scared to death as a result. I do know that my heart function is at 40%. I have been put on Coreg and Captopril, with instructions to see my primary doc in 2 weeks and a cardiologist in 3-4 weeks. I was released from the hospital yesterday after spending 4 days there. I am still feeling pretty crappy and get kind of dizzy when I stand too long. I don't know if this is normal. I am very scared that I won't be around to raise my children. Should the docs have done more for me? Should I seek a second opinion? Any clarification on this condition would be much appreciated.

[often]

I don't have PPCM, but I do know that Coreg will make you feel worse before you feel better.  As anacyde says, 40 is pretty good.

Make sure you really limit your sodium intake..that is a key factor in getting better.  Read those labels and try and keep your sodium under 2000mg per day...

[anacyde]

I'm bumping this thread up.

[anacyde]

Hi there!  I'm a PPCM survivor too, I understand the fear and I want to tell you a couple of things that I hope will offer some comfort.  One, an EF of 40% with PPCM is pretty good this early in the game.  It actually improves your odds of a full recovery. Two, Coreg is an excellent medication, and despite the dizziness and fatigue, you will probably begin feeling better soon.  Three, please please visit a website called A Mother's Heart.  It is a support network just for women with PPCM!  You'll be welcomed with open arms, and there is a world of information available to ease your mind.  The women are just wonderful there.

Congrats on the birth of your new little ones!  How exciting to have twins :)  You'll also find a good bunch of twin mommies at A Mother's Heart ;)