After having two beautiful girls, we finally had a handsome baby boy on October 11, 2013. He had to be delivered by c-section because he was breech. The OBGYN doctor was unable to turn him prior to delivery. At 40 years old, I really was feeling great until I returned to work eight weeks later. I began having shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat. Reluctantly, I made an appointment with my primary doctor on December 16, 2013 and he sent me to the hospital for a chest x-ray the same day. It was discovered my heart enlarged from the pregnancy and I followed up with the heart doctor the next day. I was put on Metoprolol and Forsemide because my EF was 10% to 15% after an echo was done. These two medications did not work for me and I ended up in the hospital with fluid retention and a clot on February 10, 2014. However, if it wasn’t for my acupuncture friend who insisted and drove me to the hospital, I may not be writing this today. I am very fortunate, grateful, thankful and blessed. I am not sure how I did it, but I’ve always remained positive even though I was scared of dying. I even continued working full time. My medications were changed to Carvedilol, Coumadin, Lisinopril, Spironolactone and Torsemide. I also take supplements, CoQ10, Fish Oil, Flax Seed, Potassium, Protein Shakes and Vitamins as well as completely changed my diet. I try to exercise moderately.
On March 13, 2014, the heart doctor and I were amazed that my clot had already diminished. He told me, it should have taken several months due to its size. He has been great with me treating this condition.
On April 23, 2014, I got the echo with contrast done to officially confirm the clot was indeed gone. Also, my EF has gone up to 27% and I’m hoping by the end of the year it will be at 35% or more so that I won’t need an ICD to be inserted. I will do what I need to do to keep on ticking. My prayers have been answered and I hope it will continue because I have my children and dogs who I love and need me very much.
On August 22, 2014, I had another echo done and I am happy to report, my EF has gone up to 40% and my heart has returned to normal size. My next goal is for my EF to be between 50 & 60%.
On February 12, 2015, I had another echo done and I am happy to report, my EF has gone up to 55%. I'm hoping when I get my next echo done in August 2015, I will be at 60%.
On August 4, 2015, my EF is at normal range of 55% and I'm doing well. I am no longer taking Coumadin, Lisinopril, and Spironolactone. I've been working with a Nutritionist and changed my supplements to INNATE Vitamin D3 5000 and Women Over 40 One Daily. Also, Acetyl-L Carnitine, Juice Plus+ Orchard + Garden and Vineyard Blend.
My Details
- Date Diagnosed: 18/12/2013
- Child: 3
- Initial EF: 10% - 15%
- Current EF: 55%
Story By Robin Lazar