Echograms

It's difficult getting answers during check-ups. Do you know about this?

My electrophysiologist requested that I have an echogram once a year during my visit to my cardiologist. I had total heart block, but also have four moderate leaky valves.

If you are totally reliant, are you having a yearly echogram as well? I'm not sure if it's because of my PM or my leaky valves.

Thanks.

2 Comments

valves

by Angelie - 2009-08-06 02:08:23

Sorry you're having a hard time getting information from your doctor. I don't know why they make it so hard for their patients to understand what is going on. You have every right to know and understand your condition. Next time, I would not leave the doctors office until your questions have been answered to your satisfaction. Try writing a list of questions for your doctor and have it with you the next time you have an appointment. I know it's hard for me to remember everything once we get into the exam room and start talking, and a list makes it easier to make sure all my questions get answered.

Total heart block is an electrical problem which is undetectable on an Echocardiogram. They do a simple 3 lead during the exam just to get a grasp at the patient's heart rate, but really what they're looking for in an ECHO is your heart valves, your heart chambers, and the blood flow between them.

I can make a safe assumption that your EP doc is requesting a yearly echocardiogram to keep a check on your "moderately leaky valves", but I don't know your entire medical history and I think you should still ask your doctor specifically for the reason why. I do know this though, having a pacemaker (with no other heart issues other than electrical) and being 100% reliant on one does not warrant means for a yearly echocardiogram.

Always ASK, don't be afraid to get answers. It's your body and your life. You have the right to know everything about it.

Angelie

One other reason

by ElectricFrank - 2009-08-06 06:08:48

Pacemaker, leaking valves, or the EP is behind in his quota of Echo's.

frank

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