Well, I'm back. I was just going over my calendar & my doctor visits for the year! WOW!
Of course, I am still managing my heart health! But, at age 65, there are some other issues!
Family Doctor
Heart Doctor (Cardiologist)
Heart Doctor (Electrical)
Liver Doctor (Gastroenterologist)
Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor (Slight hearing loss & Tennitus)
Skin Doctor (Dermatologist)
Eye Doctor
Eye Doctor (Cataracts)
Dentist
One of the reasons, for my blog originally, was to keep my focus after open-heart surgery! That worked! I had a great recovery & I learned a great deal! Plus, I learned to ask, "Good Questions" when meeting my doctors!
Family Doctor - our family is very fortunate. For the past 40 years we have had the same family doctor group. They know us, they helped us keep our children healthy & fix those bumps & bruises! They assisted my wife & I battle health issues! From the meds they suggested, to surgeies, pointing us to specialists & just listening! We have been VERY lucky!
Eye Doctor
My first cataract surgery! What a difference!!! My left eye was finished & a year or two away for the right eye!!!
And, Dentist!
Filings, bridges, and other work inside the old mouth!!!
More detail to come! One of the battles, keeping teack of calendar & insurance!!!!
Heart Doctor - I put these people next because, this was my most intensive surgery!!! A little over 8 years ago, my surgeon performed a quintuple by-pass surgery! This basically allowed me to see both of my sons get married, 4 grand children born, and 8 more years with my lovely wife!!
LUCKY GUY!
Heart Doctor (Electrical issues) - After surgery, PVC's! (Premature Ventricular Contractions)
My first heart rehab was VERY short. After about 10 minutes of exercise, stopped, my rehab nurses kicked me out & after 8 years still have PVC's! The electrical specialists would like to do an ablation, but I have decided to not. More to come on this!
Liver Doctor (Gastroenterologist)
A blood test was the catalyst to a visit to the Gastroenterologist! In the Blood Test my AST(or SGOT-aspartate aminotransferase) & ALT (SGPT - alanine aminotransferase) were high! End result -
Fatty Liver Disease!
Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat Doctor
Tennitues - ring of the ears brought me into this office! No cure for this one! A Pain! And, my first hearing test, slightly below normal! Could be looking at hearing aids in my future!
Skin Doctor (Dermatologist)
Already have had 2 - Basal Cells & 1 Squamous cell cut out! A check-up every year!!!
Saturday, February 16, 2019
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Heart Issues Still Persist With PVC's
I have not posted in some time, so here we go. I have been busy being a Grand Pa, family, my golf game, and of course, VISITING MY DOCTORS!! A Senior Citizen Tradition!!!
Here is my current schedule:
April 3 - Endoscopy
April 4 - pick up my 24 hour heart monitor
April 13 - Visit my Heart Specialist to go over my results from the 24 monitor - PVC's
May 17 - Eye Appointment - planning future Cataract surgery
May 23 - Dentist - 6 month check up
June 6 - Dermatologist Yearly Check up for Skin Cancer
You see I have been busy! I will still focus on my heart issues, but will also get into other
health concerns as we all age gracefully!!!!
Just to review:
Heart open heart surgery - December 13, 2010 - Quintuple By-pass
During rehab, discovered PVC's during first cardiac rehab
So, for the past 7 1/2 years have been experimenting with different medications. But, still do my exercise(mostly walking now, a little jogging mixed in). Light free weight lifting. Golf & other outdoor activities.
For the past few months, I still get many people viewing my blog - thank you! The largest interest seem to be running after open-heart surgery. Many great comments! My coaching advice, just be VERY careful and smart! Especially, talk to your doctors & be proactive!
My focus now will be my PVC's!
What are they?
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that begin in one of your heart's two lower pumping chambers (ventricles). These extra beats disrupt your regular heart rhythm, sometimes causing you to feel a fluttering or a skipped beat in your chest.
So, the battle continues!
Here is my current schedule:
April 3 - Endoscopy
April 4 - pick up my 24 hour heart monitor
April 13 - Visit my Heart Specialist to go over my results from the 24 monitor - PVC's
May 17 - Eye Appointment - planning future Cataract surgery
May 23 - Dentist - 6 month check up
June 6 - Dermatologist Yearly Check up for Skin Cancer
You see I have been busy! I will still focus on my heart issues, but will also get into other
health concerns as we all age gracefully!!!!
Just to review:
Heart open heart surgery - December 13, 2010 - Quintuple By-pass
During rehab, discovered PVC's during first cardiac rehab
So, for the past 7 1/2 years have been experimenting with different medications. But, still do my exercise(mostly walking now, a little jogging mixed in). Light free weight lifting. Golf & other outdoor activities.
For the past few months, I still get many people viewing my blog - thank you! The largest interest seem to be running after open-heart surgery. Many great comments! My coaching advice, just be VERY careful and smart! Especially, talk to your doctors & be proactive!
My focus now will be my PVC's!
What are they?
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are extra heartbeats that begin in one of your heart's two lower pumping chambers (ventricles). These extra beats disrupt your regular heart rhythm, sometimes causing you to feel a fluttering or a skipped beat in your chest.
So, the battle continues!
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Stress Echocardiography
Here we go. Six years and nine months after open heart surgery. During my last annual check up, I discussed my exercise routine and told my doctor that hills & stairs seem to be more of an issue. So,
Stress Echocardiography
A stress echocardiography, also called an echocardiography stress test or stress echo, is a procedure that determines how well your heart and blood vessels are working.
During a stress echocardiography, you’ll exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while your doctor monitors your blood pressure and heart rhythm. When your heart rate reaches peak levels, your doctor will take ultrasound images of your heart to determine whether your heart muscles are getting enough blood and oxygen while you exercise.
Your doctor may order a stress echocardiography test if you have chest pain that they think is due to coronary artery disease or a myocardial infarction, which is a heart attack. This test also determines how much exercise you can safely tolerate if you’re in cardiac rehabilitation. The test can also tell your doctor how well treatments such as bypass grafting, angioplasty, and anti-anginal or antiarrhythmic medications are working.
What does this mean? Stay tuned!
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Yearly Cadio Appointment - 2017
OK, it has been a little over 6 1/2 years since my open-heart surgery! And, here is the latest:
1 - Overall, at age 64, I'm feeling pretty good. I seem to be able to do what a grand pa should do!
2 - My visit to the cardiologist was good, liked the blood work, blood pressure good, and in pretty good shape at 5'9" and 183 pounds (trying to get down to 175!)
3 - Told the doctor, the only concern I had was walking up hills or a lot of steps. So, the doctor suggested a Echo Stress Test, which is:
How does Stress Echo work? Patients with coronary artery blockages may have minimal or no symptoms during rest. However, symptoms and signs of heart disease may be unmasked by exposing the heart to the stress of exercise. During exercise, healthy coronary arteries dilate (develop a more open channel) than an artery with a blockage. This unequal dilation causes more blood to be delivered to heart muscle supplied by the normal artery. In contrast, narrowed arteries end up supplying reduced flow to it's area of distribution. This reduced flow causes the involved muscle to "starve" during exercise. The "starvation" may produce symptoms (like chest discomfort or inappropriate shortness of breath), EKG abnormalities and reduced movement of the heart muscle. The latter can be recognized by examining the movement of the walls of the left ventricle (the major pumping chamber of the heart) by Echocardiography.
This will be interesting. After 6 1/2 years, this should let me know how I am doing. So, as any test, the name itself, "Echo Stress Test" is STRESS! I still think that any test you take should NOT have the word STESS in it!
More to come!
1 - Overall, at age 64, I'm feeling pretty good. I seem to be able to do what a grand pa should do!
2 - My visit to the cardiologist was good, liked the blood work, blood pressure good, and in pretty good shape at 5'9" and 183 pounds (trying to get down to 175!)
3 - Told the doctor, the only concern I had was walking up hills or a lot of steps. So, the doctor suggested a Echo Stress Test, which is:
How does Stress Echo work? Patients with coronary artery blockages may have minimal or no symptoms during rest. However, symptoms and signs of heart disease may be unmasked by exposing the heart to the stress of exercise. During exercise, healthy coronary arteries dilate (develop a more open channel) than an artery with a blockage. This unequal dilation causes more blood to be delivered to heart muscle supplied by the normal artery. In contrast, narrowed arteries end up supplying reduced flow to it's area of distribution. This reduced flow causes the involved muscle to "starve" during exercise. The "starvation" may produce symptoms (like chest discomfort or inappropriate shortness of breath), EKG abnormalities and reduced movement of the heart muscle. The latter can be recognized by examining the movement of the walls of the left ventricle (the major pumping chamber of the heart) by Echocardiography.
This will be interesting. After 6 1/2 years, this should let me know how I am doing. So, as any test, the name itself, "Echo Stress Test" is STRESS! I still think that any test you take should NOT have the word STESS in it!
More to come!
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
It's Been Awhile!
It's Been Awhile!
Amazing how you get started on something, get side tracked, and,... you know.
It has been 6 1/2 years since my open heart surgery! And, in that time:
Both of my sons were married!
My wife & I have 3 grandchildren & another due in September!
I had my 40th & 45th high school reunion.
My wife & I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary!
I had a "hole-in-one"!
And, my Green Bay Packers won a Super Bowl!
Yes, I would have missed this!! ALL THIS!!
So, FIRST! If you do not feel well, in anyway, SEE YOUR DOCTOR!
Warning signs of heart issues?
1. Chest Discomfort. It’s the most common sign of heart danger. If you have a blocked artery or are having a heart attack, you may feel pain, tightness, or pressure in your chest. “Everyone has a different word for that feeling,” Chambers says. “Some people say it’s like an elephant is sitting on them. Other people say it’s like a pinching or burning.”
2. Nausea, Indigestion, Heartburn, or Stomach Pain. Some people have these symptoms during a heart attack. They may even vomit, Chambers says. Women are more likely to report this type of symptom than men are. Of course, you can have an upset stomach for many reasons that have nothing to do with your heart. It could just be something you ate, after all. But you need to be aware that it can also happen during a heart attack.
3. Pain that Spreads to the Arm. Another classic heart attack symptom is pain that radiates down the left side of the body. “It almost always starts from the chest and moves outward,” Chambers says. “But I have had some patients who have mainly arm pain that turned out to be heart attacks.”
4. You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded. A lot of things can make you lose your balance or feel faint for a moment. Maybe you didn’t have enough to eat or drink, or you stood up too fast. But if you suddenly feel unsteady and you also have chest discomfort or shortness of breath, call a doctor right away.
5. Throat or Jaw Pain. By itself, throat or jaw pain probably isn’t heart related. More likely, it’s caused by a muscular issue, a cold, or a sinus problem.
So, take control of your health! And, see your doctors regularly, especially after age 50!
Amazing how you get started on something, get side tracked, and,... you know.
It has been 6 1/2 years since my open heart surgery! And, in that time:
Both of my sons were married!
My wife & I have 3 grandchildren & another due in September!
I had my 40th & 45th high school reunion.
My wife & I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary!
I had a "hole-in-one"!
And, my Green Bay Packers won a Super Bowl!
Yes, I would have missed this!! ALL THIS!!
So, FIRST! If you do not feel well, in anyway, SEE YOUR DOCTOR!
Warning signs of heart issues?
1. Chest Discomfort. It’s the most common sign of heart danger. If you have a blocked artery or are having a heart attack, you may feel pain, tightness, or pressure in your chest. “Everyone has a different word for that feeling,” Chambers says. “Some people say it’s like an elephant is sitting on them. Other people say it’s like a pinching or burning.”
2. Nausea, Indigestion, Heartburn, or Stomach Pain. Some people have these symptoms during a heart attack. They may even vomit, Chambers says. Women are more likely to report this type of symptom than men are. Of course, you can have an upset stomach for many reasons that have nothing to do with your heart. It could just be something you ate, after all. But you need to be aware that it can also happen during a heart attack.
3. Pain that Spreads to the Arm. Another classic heart attack symptom is pain that radiates down the left side of the body. “It almost always starts from the chest and moves outward,” Chambers says. “But I have had some patients who have mainly arm pain that turned out to be heart attacks.”
4. You Feel Dizzy or Lightheaded. A lot of things can make you lose your balance or feel faint for a moment. Maybe you didn’t have enough to eat or drink, or you stood up too fast. But if you suddenly feel unsteady and you also have chest discomfort or shortness of breath, call a doctor right away.
5. Throat or Jaw Pain. By itself, throat or jaw pain probably isn’t heart related. More likely, it’s caused by a muscular issue, a cold, or a sinus problem.
So, take control of your health! And, see your doctors regularly, especially after age 50!
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Five Years Ago, My Heart Voyage Begins
Everybody has a story! As as review, here is mine!
This week, five years ago, I decided to see a doctor! Why?
For the previous three to four months, I was feeling tired. This was going to be my last year of my career in education! Year #35! Maybe I was doing too much! At age 57, I was still the first one at school. Starting my day at 5:30 AM, and getting to school around 6:10 AM every morning! Drinking my coffee, eating a Tastycake for breakfast(I know, stupid!) My first symptom, I felt tired!!!
Then, for the past 3 months, I had trouble exercising! Usually I would walk, maybe a little jog. Now, I was only able to walk. And, the the past month, EVEN THAT was difficult! Uh-Oh! In fact, the last week in October of 2010, I had trouble taking my early morning lap around the school! Stairs were difficult! And, at that moment, I new what it was! I have heart issues!!!!
But, I could finish the year! It was my last year! I do not have time for heart issues! And, we have a teacher training the first week of November! I need to get through that first, I have teacher trying to do!! My job, as technology specialist is to assist teachers with new computers and software! Help the teachers integrate technology in the classroom! OK, I made it through the week! Now what?
So, the final test! I will to a lap around my neighborhood! One of my normal workouts! Guess what? I could not make it up the hill to my house! I stopped, caught my breath and made it home!
Time to tell my wife! Time to call a doctor! And the rest is history!!!
So, if you are feeling tired! If you cannot walk up stairs - get checked! More about my journey coming!!
This week, five years ago, I decided to see a doctor! Why?
For the previous three to four months, I was feeling tired. This was going to be my last year of my career in education! Year #35! Maybe I was doing too much! At age 57, I was still the first one at school. Starting my day at 5:30 AM, and getting to school around 6:10 AM every morning! Drinking my coffee, eating a Tastycake for breakfast(I know, stupid!) My first symptom, I felt tired!!!
Then, for the past 3 months, I had trouble exercising! Usually I would walk, maybe a little jog. Now, I was only able to walk. And, the the past month, EVEN THAT was difficult! Uh-Oh! In fact, the last week in October of 2010, I had trouble taking my early morning lap around the school! Stairs were difficult! And, at that moment, I new what it was! I have heart issues!!!!
But, I could finish the year! It was my last year! I do not have time for heart issues! And, we have a teacher training the first week of November! I need to get through that first, I have teacher trying to do!! My job, as technology specialist is to assist teachers with new computers and software! Help the teachers integrate technology in the classroom! OK, I made it through the week! Now what?
So, the final test! I will to a lap around my neighborhood! One of my normal workouts! Guess what? I could not make it up the hill to my house! I stopped, caught my breath and made it home!
Time to tell my wife! Time to call a doctor! And the rest is history!!!
So, if you are feeling tired! If you cannot walk up stairs - get checked! More about my journey coming!!
Monday, July 6, 2015
Latest Health Report
Have been working on my other Blogs & need to get back to health!!! (Sorry, Green Bay Packer Blog is more fun!)
Heart Report:
It has been 4 years & 7 months since my surgery! And, I am able to do things in retirement that I dreamed about!
Travel - been to Korea, Scotland, (Green Bay games - 21 of them!), and next trip is Hawaii!)
Physical - playing golf twice a week, played over 60 softball & playing with grand kids! Still
tempted to try more running!
Mental - As I said when I was going through my heart issues, THIS IS IMPORTANT!!! And,
as you age, I'm 62 now, it is REALLY important! Stay positive, stay busy, & enjoy EVERY
day!!!
Faith - VERY VERY VERY IMPORTANT. Again, going through surgery, and dealing with adversity
I do not know how people do it without faith. If you read this blog, and have no commitment to faith,
give it a chance!!!
So, I will begin to enter more of my health concerns & thoughts. Every day I learn more about
my health!
Heart Report:
It has been 4 years & 7 months since my surgery! And, I am able to do things in retirement that I dreamed about!
Travel - been to Korea, Scotland, (Green Bay games - 21 of them!), and next trip is Hawaii!)
Physical - playing golf twice a week, played over 60 softball & playing with grand kids! Still
tempted to try more running!
Mental - As I said when I was going through my heart issues, THIS IS IMPORTANT!!! And,
as you age, I'm 62 now, it is REALLY important! Stay positive, stay busy, & enjoy EVERY
day!!!
Faith - VERY VERY VERY IMPORTANT. Again, going through surgery, and dealing with adversity
I do not know how people do it without faith. If you read this blog, and have no commitment to faith,
give it a chance!!!
So, I will begin to enter more of my health concerns & thoughts. Every day I learn more about
my health!
Friday, February 13, 2015
Health - Year Four After Open Heart Surgery
It is very hard to believe, this is year four after open heart surgery! What have I learned?
1 - Be proactive as a patient! Try to learn as much as you can! Read! Research! Talk to others that have been through the same medical problems. Ask questions of your doctor.
2 - Don't stop living! Do not sit around feeling sorry for yourself! Set goals. Travel. Continue to work.
3 - Exercise! You may not be able to run a marathon, but there are still activities you can do! Walk. Ride bike.
4 - Faith. If you are not involved in a church, talk to a friend or relative that is!
So, whatever your situation, keep fighting!!!
1 - Be proactive as a patient! Try to learn as much as you can! Read! Research! Talk to others that have been through the same medical problems. Ask questions of your doctor.
2 - Don't stop living! Do not sit around feeling sorry for yourself! Set goals. Travel. Continue to work.
3 - Exercise! You may not be able to run a marathon, but there are still activities you can do! Walk. Ride bike.
4 - Faith. If you are not involved in a church, talk to a friend or relative that is!
So, whatever your situation, keep fighting!!!
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Aaron Rogers - 2015 NFL MVP!!!
In a year ending in disappointment a a team, a player, a "special" player was voted the 2015 NFL MVP! For Rogers, number two! He joins:
Joe Montana, QB, San Francisco 49ers 1989, 1990
Steve Young, QB San Francisco 49ers 1992, 1994
Kurt Warner, St. Louis Rams 1999, 2001
Tom Brady, New England Patriots 2007, 2010
Congrats to Aaron Rogers!!!!
Joe Montana, QB, San Francisco 49ers 1989, 1990
Steve Young, QB San Francisco 49ers 1992, 1994
Kurt Warner, St. Louis Rams 1999, 2001
Tom Brady, New England Patriots 2007, 2010
Aaron Rogers, QB Green Bay Packers 2011, 2014
Congrats to Aaron Rogers!!!!
On this day, celebrating #2, I would like to make two points:
1 - Aaron was injured the last few weeks of the regular season, calf injury. He still managed to put the Packers in contention for the Super Bowl, and we know how that ended.
2 - Aaron is in his prime! I think(and I know I'm biased) he may be the BEST quarterback in my generation! I've seen from Johnny Unitas, to Joe Namath, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning & Tom Brady, oh and yes, ex-Packer Brett Favre! And why?
Arm Strength - he has it!
Ability to scramble - he has it!
Ability to scramble & throw - he has it!
Ability to lead - he has it! And it is getting even better!
Ability to read defenses - he has it!
Ability to stay healthy - he is fighting through it & playing hurt!
Ability to stay focused on the ultimate goal - he has done it!
So Packer Fans, enjoy the next 10 years!
And Mr. Mike McCarthy - DO NOT HOLD HIM BACK, LET AARON DO IT!!!!
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Happy New Year 2015 - A Healthy Heart Year!
Here we go! The FAMOUS New Year Heart & Health Resolutions!
1 - Lose weight - get down to 175 lbs
2 - Give up chocolate! OH NO!!! Yes, I will give it a shot!
3 - Bye Bye Baked Goods! - YES, another Albright downfall!
4 - Exercise more! More walking - more exercise!!!
5 - And last, read more & less TV!
Here we go! It is 7:52, January 1, 2015 and so far - so good!!
1 - Lose weight - get down to 175 lbs
2 - Give up chocolate! OH NO!!! Yes, I will give it a shot!
3 - Bye Bye Baked Goods! - YES, another Albright downfall!
4 - Exercise more! More walking - more exercise!!!
5 - And last, read more & less TV!
Here we go! It is 7:52, January 1, 2015 and so far - so good!!
Happy New Year!!
Friday, December 26, 2014
What Do The Numbers Say About Packers vs Lions?
Here we go, it's numbers time!
Team!
Packers Total Offense 6th - 386 yds (11th Rush - 7th Pass) & Lions 18th (27th Rush - 11th Pass)
Packers Total Defense 12th 348 yds & Lions 2nd - 295 yds
Team!
Packers Total Offense 6th - 386 yds (11th Rush - 7th Pass) & Lions 18th (27th Rush - 11th Pass)
Packers Total Defense 12th 348 yds & Lions 2nd - 295 yds
Points Packers 21.9 & Detroit 16.8
Key Personnel
Packers Offense
Rogers 6th 4155 yds - TD Passes Roger 3rd - 36 TD - QB Rating 2nd 111.0
Nelson 4th - 1433 yds
Cobb 10th - 1207 yds
Lacy 7th - 1039 yds
Lions Offense
Stafford 7th 4040 yds - TD Passes 16th - 19 TD - QB Rating 23th 85.4
Johnson 16th - 1038 yds
Tate 7th - 1286 yds
Bell 16th - 800 yes
Packers Defense
Sacks - Matthews 10
Interceptions - Hayward 16th 3
Tackles Burnett 4th - 122
Lions Defense
Suh 8.5
Interceptions Quinn 1st - 7
Tackles DeAndre 1st - 140
The Detroit Defense has some great weapons, while the Packers offense does the same!
All Pros Packers
QB - Rogers
FB - Kuhn
WR - Nelson
G - Sitton
OLB - Matthews
All Pro Lions
WR - Johnson
DT - Suh
S - Quin
Good players and great game on the way!
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Four Years After Open Heart ByPass Surgery!
Today. December 13, is 4 years after my open heart surgery. I hope this blog has helped others! I hope this blog has informed others! I hope this blog hale ME stay focused!!!
Let's review the past four years!
1 - At age 57, my last year in education, I had a feeling! It was gradual, and it progressed to the point I new I was in trouble! Sometime around September-October, I was tired! I felt, just typical for a guy who, was in his last year of education, still coaching, and doing too much! The long days of 6 AM to 6 PM were starting to catch up to me!
And then, late October I new EXACTLY what it was! A long time buddy had open heart in April! All my reading & studying said, heart issues, a blockage! I had teacher inservice classes to teach the first week of November, and I was determined to do this first!(STUPID). I had trouble walking around the school! I had trouble walking up steps!!! After my inservice, I tried to walk around the block of my house, and had to stop several times! It was time to call!
2 - Called my wife & told her! Called my doctor & he said see me right way! To make a long story short - family doctor, to cardiologist, a heart cath & 3 blockages - 50%, 60% & 99%!!!! WOW!
3 - Decided to pick a different doctor - my family doctor was affiliated with a certain hospital & I wanted another! Fortunately, it was no problem! I wanted the Heart Group with the MOST experience! BUT, had to wait 3 weeks! That meant, NO PHYSICAL activity!
4 - Heart Surgery! The mental prep was critical! My faith was critical! My family & friends were critical! And the day arrived, Monday, December 13th, 2010! Up early(5 AM), at hospital at 6 AM. Nurses prepped me, that put me under & I'm on my way!!! Plan was for 3 bypasses!
5 - Five - six hours later, I wake up! WOW! My back was killing me! My throat was DRY. And the breathing tube was still in my throat!!! I WAS ALIVE! THAT IS GOOD!
6 - Four days in the hospital, and each day was a journey. Like I said, the first PAIN was my back! My chest felt pretty good, except when sneezing or coughing! (GRAB THAT PILLOW) My pain meds made me a little goofy! Percocet!! NOT GOOD!
7 - Home - first shower - AMAZING! Getting dressed - WIFE HAD TO HELP! Visits from home nurse & physical therapist were great! Recovery was slow & steady!
8 - Cardiac Rehab! Great people, great experience, lot's of learning, and a few set backs!! Day 2 of rehab, kicked out! Had PVC's. Never had before, but no more rehab! More tests, nothing definite, back to rehab! Still have PVC's! Fooled with meds, had another heat cath, NOTHING! Make a long story short, STILL have them 4 years later!
9 - Bought a heart monitor for exercise, and it will show me when I have PVC's usually at a heart rate around 110-120!
10 - Four years later, feel pretty good! I really am doing anything I want, but no crazy physical things. Golfed 50 times this year, went to Scotland, played senior league softball, and walk regularly. Still have not jogged a lot!
So, if you are having heart issues - GET CHECKED! I was STUPID & LUCKY!
Let's review the past four years!
1 - At age 57, my last year in education, I had a feeling! It was gradual, and it progressed to the point I new I was in trouble! Sometime around September-October, I was tired! I felt, just typical for a guy who, was in his last year of education, still coaching, and doing too much! The long days of 6 AM to 6 PM were starting to catch up to me!
And then, late October I new EXACTLY what it was! A long time buddy had open heart in April! All my reading & studying said, heart issues, a blockage! I had teacher inservice classes to teach the first week of November, and I was determined to do this first!(STUPID). I had trouble walking around the school! I had trouble walking up steps!!! After my inservice, I tried to walk around the block of my house, and had to stop several times! It was time to call!
2 - Called my wife & told her! Called my doctor & he said see me right way! To make a long story short - family doctor, to cardiologist, a heart cath & 3 blockages - 50%, 60% & 99%!!!! WOW!
3 - Decided to pick a different doctor - my family doctor was affiliated with a certain hospital & I wanted another! Fortunately, it was no problem! I wanted the Heart Group with the MOST experience! BUT, had to wait 3 weeks! That meant, NO PHYSICAL activity!
4 - Heart Surgery! The mental prep was critical! My faith was critical! My family & friends were critical! And the day arrived, Monday, December 13th, 2010! Up early(5 AM), at hospital at 6 AM. Nurses prepped me, that put me under & I'm on my way!!! Plan was for 3 bypasses!
5 - Five - six hours later, I wake up! WOW! My back was killing me! My throat was DRY. And the breathing tube was still in my throat!!! I WAS ALIVE! THAT IS GOOD!
6 - Four days in the hospital, and each day was a journey. Like I said, the first PAIN was my back! My chest felt pretty good, except when sneezing or coughing! (GRAB THAT PILLOW) My pain meds made me a little goofy! Percocet!! NOT GOOD!
7 - Home - first shower - AMAZING! Getting dressed - WIFE HAD TO HELP! Visits from home nurse & physical therapist were great! Recovery was slow & steady!
8 - Cardiac Rehab! Great people, great experience, lot's of learning, and a few set backs!! Day 2 of rehab, kicked out! Had PVC's. Never had before, but no more rehab! More tests, nothing definite, back to rehab! Still have PVC's! Fooled with meds, had another heat cath, NOTHING! Make a long story short, STILL have them 4 years later!
9 - Bought a heart monitor for exercise, and it will show me when I have PVC's usually at a heart rate around 110-120!
10 - Four years later, feel pretty good! I really am doing anything I want, but no crazy physical things. Golfed 50 times this year, went to Scotland, played senior league softball, and walk regularly. Still have not jogged a lot!
So, if you are having heart issues - GET CHECKED! I was STUPID & LUCKY!
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Visit To Family Doctor
OK, it has been awhile! Time to start focusing on my "Heart Blog" & not my "Green Bay Packer Blog"!
Today was the visit to the family doctor - the game plan was:
1 - Talk about the other doctors in my life!
Dermatologist - Liver Doctor - Heart Doctor (My dentist & eye doctor don't count)
2 - Flu Shot
3 - Future Stuff
Physical - March 2015
Liver Doctor Appt - Nov - Dec 2014 - Feb 2015
Dermatologist - PDT Treatment
Heart Doctor Appt - Feb - March 2015
Colonoscopy - 2016
Future considerations …….
Pneumonia Vaccine
Today was the visit to the family doctor - the game plan was:
1 - Talk about the other doctors in my life!
Dermatologist - Liver Doctor - Heart Doctor (My dentist & eye doctor don't count)
2 - Flu Shot
3 - Future Stuff
Physical - March 2015
Liver Doctor Appt - Nov - Dec 2014 - Feb 2015
Dermatologist - PDT Treatment
Heart Doctor Appt - Feb - March 2015
Colonoscopy - 2016
Future considerations …….
Pneumonia Vaccine
Who should consider pneumococcal vaccination?
Pneumococcal vaccination should be considered by people in the following groups:
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- People > 2 years of age with chronic heart or lung disorders, includingcongestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus, chronic liver disease,alcoholism, spinal fluid leaks, cardiomyopathy, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or emphysema
- People > 2 years of age with spleen dysfunction (such as sickle cell disease) or lack of spleen function (asplenia), blood malignancy (leukemias), multiple myeloma, kidney failure, organ transplantation, or immunosuppressive conditions, including HIV infection
- Alaskan natives and certain American Indian populations
- If elective surgical removal of the spleen (splenectomy) or immunosuppressive therapy is planned, the vaccine is given two weeks prior to the procedure, if possible.
Future considerations …….
Whether they've had shingles or not, adults age 60 and older should get the shingles vaccine (Zostavax), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although the vaccine is also approved for use in people ages 50 to 59 years, the CDC isn't recommending the shingles vaccine until you reach age 60.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Three and a Half Years After Open Heart Surgery
Have not posted in awhile! That is good health news! Too busy living life! That is good! How about a recap & look at life 3 1/2 years after open heart surgery!
Age I had open heart surgery - 57 years - 7 months
Age now - 61 years - 2 months
My health age 57 years - 7 months - could not walk around the block!
My health now - golf twice a week, walk 2-3 miles a day, cut grass, played senior softball, traveled to Scotland & Korea, work part time, and well, you get it, I'm living life.
In the past 3 1/2 years I have been at my son's weddings - Nov. 11, 2011 & Oct. 20, 2012
And, enjoyed birth of two granddaughters - July 30, 2012 & September 12, 2013!
Retired from educations June 2011!
Retired from coaching June 2012!
And played over 60 softball!
And enjoyed many, many, many round of golf!
Walked under an underground tunnel at the DMZ in Korea!
Toured castles, sipped whiskey, and counted sheep in Scotland!
Heart is feeling great, yesterdays exercise, a 60 minute walk started with a resting heart rate of 70 and got the heart rate up to 95-105.
I have battled Skin cancer the past 3 1/2 years.
Learned my liver needs some care & diet change!
And, will try to be more faithful on my Heart Blog!
Age I had open heart surgery - 57 years - 7 months
Age now - 61 years - 2 months
My health age 57 years - 7 months - could not walk around the block!
My health now - golf twice a week, walk 2-3 miles a day, cut grass, played senior softball, traveled to Scotland & Korea, work part time, and well, you get it, I'm living life.
In the past 3 1/2 years I have been at my son's weddings - Nov. 11, 2011 & Oct. 20, 2012
And, enjoyed birth of two granddaughters - July 30, 2012 & September 12, 2013!
Retired from educations June 2011!
Retired from coaching June 2012!
And played over 60 softball!
And enjoyed many, many, many round of golf!
Walked under an underground tunnel at the DMZ in Korea!
Toured castles, sipped whiskey, and counted sheep in Scotland!
Heart is feeling great, yesterdays exercise, a 60 minute walk started with a resting heart rate of 70 and got the heart rate up to 95-105.
I have battled Skin cancer the past 3 1/2 years.
Learned my liver needs some care & diet change!
And, will try to be more faithful on my Heart Blog!
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Exercise and PVC's
Time to review PVC's! As mentioned in my early blogs, I suffer from PVC's. I could have had them my entire life, but my open heart surgery made me aware(and my doctors!) of them! As a review on PVC's, take a look at the Cleveland Clinic Website:
Remember, the Cleveland Clinic is the top heart hospital in the country! As a review, this is how I discovered my PVC's:
1 - Had Quintuple Open Heart Surgery December 13, 2010.
2 - Began cardiac rehab, January 2011. After second session was "kicked out" of rehab, because I was having PVC's during my exercise program.
3 - Had a second heart cath - all by-passes were working fine.
4 - Changed my beta-blocker Metoprolol from 25mg to 50mg to 100mg and continued to have PVC's. And they seemed to occur at a lower heart rate. First, the PVC's came at a heart rate of 95-100. Then, on 100mg, the PVC's came at 90-95.
5 - To make a long story, short, after experimenting with my metoprolol, we agreed on 25mg. The more I used, the more lethargic I felt. And the PVC's were not interfering with my exercise. I just managing them and worked passed the PVC's.
After 3 and 1/2 years I still have the PVC's. I wear a hear monitor - a Polar Watch with a band around my chest. I know I have the PVC's, because the monitor goes crazy around 95 to 110 heart rate. As I increase my pace, the monitor will read - 75 - 80 - 85 - 90 - 95 - 191! If I back off my intensity to 90-95 heart rate, the PVC's stop!
So, I continue to exercise, but keep a watchful eye on my monitor. I really do not "feel" the PVC's, but I get the strange reading on the heart monitor.
I continue to exercise and try to maintain a positive mental approach! More on that later!
Premature Ventricular Contractions
Remember, the Cleveland Clinic is the top heart hospital in the country! As a review, this is how I discovered my PVC's:
1 - Had Quintuple Open Heart Surgery December 13, 2010.
2 - Began cardiac rehab, January 2011. After second session was "kicked out" of rehab, because I was having PVC's during my exercise program.
3 - Had a second heart cath - all by-passes were working fine.
4 - Changed my beta-blocker Metoprolol from 25mg to 50mg to 100mg and continued to have PVC's. And they seemed to occur at a lower heart rate. First, the PVC's came at a heart rate of 95-100. Then, on 100mg, the PVC's came at 90-95.
5 - To make a long story, short, after experimenting with my metoprolol, we agreed on 25mg. The more I used, the more lethargic I felt. And the PVC's were not interfering with my exercise. I just managing them and worked passed the PVC's.
After 3 and 1/2 years I still have the PVC's. I wear a hear monitor - a Polar Watch with a band around my chest. I know I have the PVC's, because the monitor goes crazy around 95 to 110 heart rate. As I increase my pace, the monitor will read - 75 - 80 - 85 - 90 - 95 - 191! If I back off my intensity to 90-95 heart rate, the PVC's stop!
So, I continue to exercise, but keep a watchful eye on my monitor. I really do not "feel" the PVC's, but I get the strange reading on the heart monitor.
I continue to exercise and try to maintain a positive mental approach! More on that later!
Monday, April 7, 2014
My Heart Blog - OVER 50,000 Views!
Another Big Day for My Heart Under Repair!!!
50,000 Views!!!!
This has been a great experience after Open Heart By-Pass Surgery!! Here are some stats!
Page Views is an interesting statistic! Notice by far the largest view was Running After Open Heart Surgery! I also had some communication with people about running. As I have documented, people want to talk to people that have gone through Open Heart Surgery and get their feelings!
PVC's was another widely viewed topic! This topic is not only fascinating, but confusing to the patient! Many of us have had extra heart beats and never even new it!!
50,000 Views!!!!
This has been a great experience after Open Heart By-Pass Surgery!! Here are some stats!
PVC's was another widely viewed topic! This topic is not only fascinating, but confusing to the patient! Many of us have had extra heart beats and never even new it!!
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Heart News
One thing about aging, is it seems there is a new desire to learn about health! One of the key elements of learning anything about your health is, be careful with internet resources! Make sure you know the web site is reputable! Check and re-check sources!
Here are a few samples:
Research - Science Daily
This site has some of the latest Heart News! From Stem Cell research to diet news. Insomnia and Stroke Risk, Depression and Heart Failure, and on and on…
American Heart Association
Of course, this is a very dependable site concerning heart issues!
So, just make sure what you are reading is reliable!!!
Here are a few samples:
Research - Science Daily
This site has some of the latest Heart News! From Stem Cell research to diet news. Insomnia and Stroke Risk, Depression and Heart Failure, and on and on…
American Heart Association
Of course, this is a very dependable site concerning heart issues!
So, just make sure what you are reading is reliable!!!
Thursday, April 3, 2014
A Reminder To Anyone With Heart Issues
A Reminder To Anyone With Heart Issues!
First, if you have symptoms, get checked! I was foolish for about 2-3 months! I felt the following:
Tired - sluggish and just thought it was being 57 years old & busy!
Second, Tightness in chest. After mowing my yard, I was winded & had a tightness in my chest. No pain, just a VERY tight & heavy feeling in my chest!
And third, just the slightest exercise was difficult! This changed quickly! I was doing my morning walks & felt fine, but sluggish three months prior to my check up. But, each month & week that past, it changed to the last month I needed to stop in the middle of my walk. The last few weeks, I had trouble taking a complete lap around the school that I worked!! Going up a stairs was VERY difficult!!!
If I would have waited longer, what would I have missed?
1 - My older sons wedding
2 - My younger sons wedding
3 - The birth of my first grand daughter
4 - The birth of my second grand daughter
5 - Three & a half years of retirement!
So, get checked!!!
First, if you have symptoms, get checked! I was foolish for about 2-3 months! I felt the following:
Tired - sluggish and just thought it was being 57 years old & busy!
Second, Tightness in chest. After mowing my yard, I was winded & had a tightness in my chest. No pain, just a VERY tight & heavy feeling in my chest!
And third, just the slightest exercise was difficult! This changed quickly! I was doing my morning walks & felt fine, but sluggish three months prior to my check up. But, each month & week that past, it changed to the last month I needed to stop in the middle of my walk. The last few weeks, I had trouble taking a complete lap around the school that I worked!! Going up a stairs was VERY difficult!!!
If I would have waited longer, what would I have missed?
1 - My older sons wedding
2 - My younger sons wedding
3 - The birth of my first grand daughter
4 - The birth of my second grand daughter
5 - Three & a half years of retirement!
So, get checked!!!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Three Years and Three Months After Open Heart Surgery
It is time to catch up on my heart! Over the past year the focused has changed to liver issues and skin cancer! As a quick recap:
1 - Liver! During my heart doctor visits, the blood work showed some elevated issues for the liver. So, off to the liver doctor! Results were…. Fatty-Liver Disease. Stage 2 Fibrosis. My latest tests are good & the doctor seems happy with the results. Blood work shows levels are back to normal and no need to panic. Watch diet(I have a big time sweet tooth), lose some weight(all doctors say this), and see liver doctor in 6 months. The diet is good, weight is down 10-12 pounds.
2 - Skin cancer! Finished my last PDT therapy & had 2 areas frozen. To see analysis read my earlier blogs. This was again a NEW experience! All seems well and the doctors were happy with latest results. EVEN SAID I LOOK YOUNGER!!
Now, the HEART!! This passed week visited my cardiologist. Here are the latest results & observations:
1 - Observation - started with a new cardiologist. One of the biggest issues in medicine is change in doctors. Overall, I have be fortunate. This is why YOU need to keep a diary, blog, notebook, or something! In the end, the only constant is YOU!
2 - Results of Blood Work: (Remember, just as a football game, NO FLAGS, is a GOOD THING!
EKG Result
1 - Liver! During my heart doctor visits, the blood work showed some elevated issues for the liver. So, off to the liver doctor! Results were…. Fatty-Liver Disease. Stage 2 Fibrosis. My latest tests are good & the doctor seems happy with the results. Blood work shows levels are back to normal and no need to panic. Watch diet(I have a big time sweet tooth), lose some weight(all doctors say this), and see liver doctor in 6 months. The diet is good, weight is down 10-12 pounds.
2 - Skin cancer! Finished my last PDT therapy & had 2 areas frozen. To see analysis read my earlier blogs. This was again a NEW experience! All seems well and the doctors were happy with latest results. EVEN SAID I LOOK YOUNGER!!
Now, the HEART!! This passed week visited my cardiologist. Here are the latest results & observations:
1 - Observation - started with a new cardiologist. One of the biggest issues in medicine is change in doctors. Overall, I have be fortunate. This is why YOU need to keep a diary, blog, notebook, or something! In the end, the only constant is YOU!
2 - Results of Blood Work: (Remember, just as a football game, NO FLAGS, is a GOOD THING!
EKG Result
NO FLAGS
Metabolic Panel
Cholesterol Panel
CBC Panel
Hepatitis Results
Saturday, February 15, 2014
My Second PDT Treatment
Heart is doing fine and I am one month away from my cardiologist appointment! It will be 3 years & 3 months after my open heart surgery! A lot has happened! Now the latest on my second PDT Treatment!
Here is my skin care journey:
1 - Sept 7, 2013 - diagnosed with skin cancer
2 - Sept 24, 2013 - Squamous Cell removed
3 - Nov 20, 2013 - First PDT Treatment
4 - Dec 17, 2013 - Basal Cell removed
5 - Feb 11, 2014 - Second PDT Treatment
As a review - what is PDT Treatment?
PDT Treatment
Here is my skin care journey:
1 - Sept 7, 2013 - diagnosed with skin cancer
2 - Sept 24, 2013 - Squamous Cell removed
3 - Nov 20, 2013 - First PDT Treatment
4 - Dec 17, 2013 - Basal Cell removed
5 - Feb 11, 2014 - Second PDT Treatment
As a review - what is PDT Treatment?
PDT Treatment
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that uses a drug, called a photosensitizer or photosensitizing agent, and a particular type of light. When photosensitizers are exposed to a specific wavelength of light, they produce a form of oxygen that kills nearby cells.
Each photosensitizer is activated by light of a specific wavelength. This wavelength determines how far the light can travel into the body. Thus, doctors use specific photosensitizers and wavelengths of light to treat different areas of the body with PDT.
This time I took pictures at 24hrs, 48hrs, 72hrs, & 96hrs! Have a look:
This time I took pictures at 24hrs, 48hrs, 72hrs, & 96hrs! Have a look:
24 Hours
After 24 hours the treatment feels & looks like a severe sunburn! Your skin is painful to touch. You are not allowed to be in sunlight, OR a lot of indoor lighting! Did not take any pain medicine, but there is some pain during the first 24 hours!
48 Hours
Still a lot of redness! The skin is still raw to the touch! Using a lot of skin moisture cleanser. Must still avoid sun exposure!
72 Hours
The redness is now disappearing. And showering & cleaning face does not have as much pain! Still have not shaved and will probably not shave for at least 2-3 more days!
96 Hours
The skin is starting to flake!! I am losing the skin that was treated! And the skin is itchy & starting to come off!
The entire concept of the the treatment is to destroy the "pre-cancer" cells! Hope it works!
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