Author: Belinda (---.dsl.rcsntx.swbell.net)
Date: 02-17-06 22:52
Author: Carole (cache-ntc-ac07.proxy.aol.com)
Date: 01-23-06 19:26
Hello, Jeremy--
I can relate to the so-called "panic attacks" that you have been unfortunately experiencing. I, too, was plagued by an awakening after usually the first 15-20 minutes into a night's sleep or an occasional nap. The position of my body had no relevance--whether I was sitting or lying down. I would also be awakened anytime during the night with extreme anxiety from the tachycardia or PVCs. In later years my pulse would be fairly normal (as I tried to maintain a calmer demeanor), but the palpitations in my chest would mimic the bell ringing at the daily closing of the New York Stock Exchange.
As time passed my concerns remained, but I was told that it was an "electrical" problem, and I appeared to be fine. I was even told that it was "normal" for me to have an "abnormal" EKG, even though my cardiologist had once inquired if "sudden death" ran in my family.
I was diagnosed nearly 30 years ago with a minimal mitral valve prolapse. I have had numerous monitors (holter and event), echos, treadmill tests, EKGs, etc., showing that there was nothing to worry about. I was prescribed a beta blocker about 17 years ago, which controlled the beats per minute, but not the episodes.
My first episodes began at least 23 years ago and continued until I began the MP. They were very scary, which sent me to the ER on many occasions. Since the chronic inflammation made my blood pressure rise to dangerous levels, I now have left ventricular hypertrophy. I am told this will diminish as time passes.
The good news is that the MP has fixed the cardiac dilemma as far as arrhythmia issues. I may have an occasional attack as a herx, but nothing to compare with what I had experienced pre-MP.
Good luck in your recovery! Carole
PWC 50+; 20+: CFS, FM, Pituitary, Thyroid, IBS, Cardiac, OA, Migraines; +ANA; Osteoporosis; 2/04 Mediastinoscopy~Sarc; (1/04,7/04,1/05,7/05,1/06) 1,25:85(wks w/no D),50,25,40,34; 25-D:41, 33.48,22.56,20.48,14.4; ACE:68,45,37,43,43; Resolved Chest CT
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