EF still sinking

I had an RV PM installed last February when my EF had declined from 57 to 40, over a year's time. Six months later my EF declined to 30. I was referred to a Heart Failure Specialist who put me on Losartan 25mg. (Six months ago I was put on Lisinopril 50mg but had to DC it because my BP dropped to 80/50). I am tolerating the ARB OK which is good because the doctor says the insurance insists on a medication trial before replacing my RV PM with an ICD, which won't be until Thanksgiving. He said my current RV PM might be doing more harm than good.
My concern is that, with a weakening heart, this PM may be wearing it out faster, kinda like beating a dying horse - he's just going to die quicker. What do you guys think?

3 Comments

Go by how you feel

by Grateful Heart - 2015-08-29 01:08:53


It sounds like your Doctor is on top of it and monitoring you. If you feel any changes for the worse, short of breath, etc. notify your Doctor...procedures are done on an emergency basis all the time which should negate the insurance med trial. But it sounds like you are feeling ok. There are members on this site with an EF of 15% and are functioning fine but again.....go by how you feel.

You will probably be receiving a Bi-Vent ICD (CRT-D), same as me. The lead in your LV will synchronize your ventricles and should help to improve your EF. I have had much improvement with mine. My EF went from 24% to 50%.

You'll be ok.

Grateful Heart

EF still sinking

by jtrainer37 - 2015-08-31 04:08:31

Thank you, Grateful heart. I will soldier on per your advice.

No jtrainer

by Grateful Heart - 2015-09-01 12:09:12


I did not suggest soldier on. If you are having difficulty breathing or any negative changes....contact your Doctor or go to the ER.

Go by how you feel and use your judgment. Listen to your body.

Grateful Heart

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