Possible superior vena cava syndrome?

• by dar222
• 2013-08-13 04:08:49
• Complications
• 1310 views
• 2 comments

Ok, this is my 1st posting. A little scared right now. Just had my CRT-D implanted on 7/9/13. Supposed to return to work on 8/19. But last week or so, have had some odd symptoms. I have been searching online for them to no avail. Until now that is. Many, but not all, of my symptoms appear to fit SVC. My cardiologist told me that he had a very difficult time getting the leads in. And now, everything I read about SVC, I'm concerned he may have injured my vein somehow. The day after I was released from the hospital, I experienced chest pains that radiated up into my jaw. My throat and glands also ached. I visited my Cardiologist the next day. They checked the device, no problems. EKG - normal. He told me that I was fine. I was a perfect candidate for a pm. 1 1/2 days later all symptoms disappeared and stayed gone for 4 weeks. The suddenly, 1 week ago, they returned. Same as before for the 1st 2 days, but then changed to more severe symptoms for the following 2. Couldn't bend at the waist without my head, throat, glands, jaw and chest throbbing. Stinging pain in my lungs when I would try to take a deep breath. Difficulty sitting and laying. Had to sleep on side or stomach. Basically had to keep moving around for any kind of comfort. After those 2 days though, the symptoms subsided somewhat. Now I just have a bad headache, dull ache in my right jaw, the feeling of swollen glands (though, by hand, they feel normal). It still stings a little to take a deep breath and it still feels better to sleep on my side or stomach, but no where near as bad as a few days ago. I know the condition is rare, but I was hoping to compare symptoms with somebody who has gone through this. I don't have many of the listed symptoms. No swelling of the face, neck or arms. Also no pronounced veins. Wondering if I am in the beginning stages. I'm a rookie at all of this so bear with me and thank you for taking the time to read my book (I mean post). Darwin.