Groups explained
Groups are mini communities on topics of special interest such as a local fundraising branch or an international trek, You can suggest a new group at the bottom of the group home page.
mitral valve replacement
Hi Everyone,
I have had mitral stenosis since I was 14 yrs old, I am now 64. At 23yrs I had my valve "stretched" Although this was a success I was told I would eventually need a valve replacement. The time has finally come when my cardiologist is advising surgery. Although I am still reasonable active my lifestyle has become more restricted and I am having to pace myself with plenty of rest time. For those of you who have had a valve replacement my question is," will a new valve actually give me more energy? How are you feeling with your new valve? Is the benefit worth having the opperation." My concern is that I may actually feel worse with an artificiall valve, although I know I shall have to have cardiac surgery eventually should I wait?
To hear your views and experiences would be a great help. Thank you, Tessa.
Hi there Helen
I had a mitral valve repair in May 2008 at the age of 24. For a year before I went down very fast - breathleness my main problem. I could barely walk across the living room at times. I showed no other outward symptoms. My leak was severe and my heart was struggling.
After the operation there was a marked improvment in my condition. I had warm feet for the first time in my live! Recovery was slow due to complication. Joining a cardiac rehab group was great - Exercise and support with education at the local hospital. I then went on the a phrase 4 cardiac rehab, which improved my fitness and was a made some good friends. Some of the guys had been there for many years, to enjoy the social aspect and improve their fitness.
My quality of life has been much improved, although my recovery was hampered by complications - fluid on my heart and delevopment of AF.
My father also had the same operation and waited a further 5 years before first being suggested. As a result his operation was more risky than if he had it earlier.
You are the only one that can decide on weather to wait or go ahead. I am glad that I had my surgery went did. Hope it goes well for you.
Amy