View Full Version : Been feeling like crapola :(
I'll start by saying this is definitely real. I actually have heart disease. Those that know me know I've had two heart attacks, triple bypass surgery and stents. The last procedure was done in 2013. I also have angina and have nitro to help when needed. The last two weeks I've had some upper back pain (between the shoulder blades) and chest tightness/pain several times. Fortunately the nitro has helped. I've had to take the pill more times in the last couple of weeks than in the last year and that's got me concerned. I wrote my cardiologist and she prescribed a stronger dose of nitro. She didn't seem that concerned but encouraged me to get checked ASAP.
I just started a new job after being unemployed for 6+ months and I'm in training 5 days a week 8+ hours a day. I can't afford to miss any time as the job requires I have the training in order to perform properly and frankly, there's a lot to learn and absorb. Once I finish training (mid August), I'll know my schedule and can arrange an appointment to get tests run and see what's going on as it's been a few years since my last run of tests. In the mean time, I've been feeling pretty crappy :( The symptoms (upper back pain between the shoulder blades and chest tightness) have been pretty consistent off and on throughout the days. The Nitro alleviates it but it's a definite sign of disease progression :(
Anyway.... it certainly has gotten my guard up and naturally the anxiety associated with it. The thing is, with my real physical condition, any time I get discomfort enough to take a nitro, there's that waiting period (15 minutes or so) that dictates whether I head to the ER or not. So far so good but dang, it's stressful! I felt like shite today but things have eased up this afternoon. Just hoping it will stay stable for another month.
Posting this to show that even I have my moments.
FMP
So so sorry you are going through this FMP. Wish there was something we could do that would help you feel better. I know that I - and so many others - will be thinking of you and wishing you well xx
So so sorry you are going through this FMP. Wish there was something we could do that would help you feel better. I know that I - and so many others - will be thinking of you and wishing you well xx
Thanks JoJo.... that's all I could ask for...
Positive thoughts
It is hard getting back in the routine of work after being off for so long (trust me; it's like that for teachers every summer), but I can only imagine how worn out I'd be feeling if I had heart issues on top of it. Plus the older we get, the more our bodies like to resist change. Is the back pain from the angina is or the back pain a separate issue?
Hang in there, FMP. :hugs:
Thanks AV... I'm not entirely sure but the pain is between the shoulder blades and feels more inside than out if that makes any sense. It's been radiating from the back to the front and my chest has felt heavy and tight off and on the last week. It kind of feels like GERD but like I said, the nitro alleviates it which lends itself to being cardio-vascular as opposed to muscular or digestive. My 1st heart attack was very apparent as the pain was inside in the front and debilitating. My 2nd was similar to what I'm feeling now but much more severe. I'm just thinking this could be a warning sign as I do have heart disease and it's been 8 years since the stents were put in. Something is going on. Just not sure what. Fortunately, the place I work at has medical facilities on campus so if I really start feeling bad, I can always head there. I felt pretty miserable this morning but things have eased up as the day has gone on. Feeling Ok for now.... just a headache and some fatigue. The wife and I went for a mile walk with the doggie at a fast pace about an hour ago and other than being a little winded I was Ok.
Positive thoughts
Well, you would know more than anyone what a true heart attack feels like. But I have a history of back pain, due to a car accident, and when i'm having spasms in my trapezius muscles in the back, I can often feel it in my chest as well.
Have you had your physical and blood draw for this year yet?
Not sure what to tell you, FMP, other than that I'm sorry you're in this horrible situation.
I know what you've said, but please don't put a job before your health?
PanickyGuy
18-07-21, 07:11
Posting this to show that even I have my moments.
FMP
Okay! That's it! You're fired from No More Panic! And I thought you were invincible. Pfft!:lac: (just kidding:D)
Seriously, Fishmanpa, I feel ya man. Even though I never post any of my anxious thoughts or panic attacks here, heck, I have my moments as well. Even the best of us are not immune. Right? Anyway I hope things get better for you and you have a smooth transition into your new job. And congrats on that too, BTW.:yesyes:
PanickyGuy
18-07-21, 07:23
Thanks AV... I'm not entirely sure but the pain is between the shoulder blades and feels more inside than out if that makes any sense. It's been radiating from the back to the front and my chest has felt heavy and tight off and on the last week. It kind of feels like GERD but like I said, the nitro alleviates it which lends itself to being cardio-vascular as opposed to muscular or digestive. My 1st heart attack was very apparent as the pain was inside in the front and debilitating. My 2nd was similar to what I'm feeling now but much more severe. I'm just thinking this could be a warning sign as I do have heart disease and it's been 8 years since the stents were put in. Something is going on. Just not sure what. Fortunately, the place I work at has medical facilities on campus so if I really start feeling bad, I can always head there. I felt pretty miserable this morning but things have eased up as the day has gone on. Feeling Ok for now.... just a headache and some fatigue. The wife and I went for a mile walk with the doggie at a fast pace about an hour ago and other than being a little winded I was Ok.
Positive thoughts
:sad:I hope it's only just a case of stress/anxiety for ya man, I really do, because of your new job and whatever else may be stressing you out right now. My old man has got two stents from heart disease, but he can always tell when it's another blockage/heart issues and not his nerves. He'd tell me "you just know". That probably doesn't help ya, but if you're posting here about it and you're not quite sure, well it seems more like anxiety and stress to me. But like AntsyVee said, "you would know more than anyone what a true heart attack feels like".
Oh FMP, I feel for you it must be very scary. You know what to do do, it's hard, but you have all the knowledge/experience to get you through this.
I'll be thinking of you and sending positive thoughts. Keep us informed. Xx
I know this is a silly question: but have you approached your doctor with this? If your heart is brewing something surely it should be assessed now and treated before anything catastrophic happens?
I completely agree with Jojo, FMP. There has to be time to get checked out in view of your cardiac history.
I would just add that I suffer from chronic upper back pain between the shoulder blades and often get chest pain too. I don't have heart issues.
I just feel that you shouldn't speculate or hope for the best on this one? Get properly assessed. No employer would deny you that chance.
Posting this to show that even I have my moments.
FMP
Whatever this is, you will deal with it. You know you will.
You have a very real heart condition and you've been feeling shite. You need to see your doctor.
Sending much love & positive thoughts to you from Blighty.
Thinking of you mate, best to get it checked out if you can. A new employer will understand if a day or 2 is needed off. You could always offer to make the time up to them letting them know your condition etc.
Positive thoughts and best wishes my friend.
Thanks folks... Yeah, you're right... The training is at the campus but done virtually. I can message my instructors and ask how I go about doing that then schedule a day to get checked out. Like I said, I wrote my cardiologist, explained what was going on. I saw her in March and the exam and EKG were good. She prescribed a stronger dose of Nitro and said to schedule an appointment when I can. She wasn't like 'get in here now' or anything. I have my yearly physical scheduled in September. As Panicky Guy's dad said, 'you just know'. It was that way with the first two heart attacks. This isn't like that but it is uncomfortable. More like a red flag that something is brewing. And yeah, add to that a new job and A LOT to learn in 6 weeks. I'm very fortunate to have been hired at my age and this job will take me out to retirement in 4 years. The pay is great and the benefits are off the hook but yeah, it's a lot of pressure to learn everything.
I had a really good night's sleep last night and today I feel pretty good :) Going to cut the lawn in a few before it gets hot and then out to the stores to do our weekly shopping.
Positive thoughts
Glad to hear you're going to see someone sooner rather than later. Take it easy in the heat and drink plenty of fluids.
FMP, is this pain a coincidence that it started when taking on this new position? The hours, the concentration, the pressure of doing well can cause all sorts in our back, neck, head, chest and stomach. I wouldn't go assuming it's a warning of something more serious and I note a glimmer that it could relate to an reflux issue. I get that too. Apple Cyder Vinegar works a treat for that.
I think you need that piece of mind with a check up otherwise you'll always be thinking the worst.
But seriously FMP, you are a very active person as well as doing a fantastic job with caring for your wife and now a new career on the way. If you ask me I think you are doing pretty damn well. Come on FMP keep those positives going, there's a lot more milage in you yet. :winks:
FMP, is this pain a coincidence that it started when taking on this new position? The hours, the concentration, the pressure of doing well can cause all sorts in our back, neck, head, chest and stomach. I wouldn't go assuming it's a warning of something more serious and I note a glimmer that it could relate to an reflux issue. I get that too. Apple Cyder Vinegar works a treat for that.
I think you need that piece of mind with a check up otherwise you'll always be thinking the worst.
But seriously FMP, you are a very active person as well as doing a fantastic job with caring for your wife and now a new career on the way. If you ask me I think you are doing pretty damn well. Come on FMP keep those positives going, there's a lot more milage in you yet. :winks:
Yeah... it started a week ago when we returned from shopping. But yeah, I went from basically chill all the time to a desk and intense focus. So it definitely is related. That said, the nitro alleviates it so...... But I do need to get checked out top to bottom as it's been three years since my last round of tests (nuclear stress test, CT etc.) and it's also been a couple of years since my last visit to the Oncologist ENT and had a full check up. With the benefits I'll be getting starting August 1st, I'm covered. I also have dental and vision as well as free life insurance for 3X my salary so my wife is taken care of. Once I'm there for a bit, I'm going to increase that. Once I hit the floor and get my schedule, I can make arrangements and appointments.
I'm actually not thinking the worst but it is stressful feeling like crapola. It's more like an inconvenience if you know what I mean. Like I said, I was unemployed for 6 months and the government benefits and stimulus checks really helped out. I messed up my knee a little over a month ago and while it's definitely better, it still hurts. Been taking ibuprofen and using OTC arthritis rubs but I probably should get that checked out. Then, the week before I started, my wife was out with the doggie and she got a bit rambunctious causing my wife to fall on her tail bone. She had to see a spine/back specialist and I couldn't take her due to work (she doesn't drive). Fortunately, a friend was able to take her and fortunately it's not broken, just a really bad bruise. I got her one of those butt pads and she been on meds for it and it's improving. She needed to see a specialist anyway as she's had two back surgeries and we needed to make sure she didn't damage anything else. Then this crapola with the back/chest pain. Couldn't all this have just waited? :lac:
Anyway... I just finished cutting and trimming the lawn and I'm fine so that's encouraging.
Positive thoughts
Heart problems of any kind are pretty scary and while I have never had a heart attack I do have a few different heart arrhythmia’s and so I can relate. My step dad had a heart attack years ago while walking to the store in the hot sun of Florida. He has never been an anxious person, not much of a worrying type but afterwards he struggled a bit especially on days he just wasn’t feeling well.
It could be angina, it could be something with your back too but the fact that the nitro helps would make one think it’s vascular related but It’s definitely a good sign that your able to mow the lawn 😊
It’s good that your not ignoring it and that you have reached out to your doctor. Maybe just try to take it easy in the mean time.
Sending you lots of positive vibes and will keep you in thoughts and prayer!!!!!!
FMP, not a bad idea to have checks. Pleased to hear your wife is ok although probably sore.
Hey, if you can mow the lawn, that's a good indication you are fit. I remember a time back, probably about 3 years ago that you got out of breath and was concerned. Do you remember? And I think we are more aware of any exertion when we are feeling, as you say, crapola.
You may also be tired from this new position, so take that into account.
FMP, not a bad idea to have checks. Pleased to hear your wife is ok although probably sore.
Hey, if you can mow the lawn, that's a good indication you are fit. I remember a time back, probably about 3 years ago that you got out of breath and was concerned. Do you remember? And I think we are more aware of any exertion when we are feeling, as you say, crapola.
You may also be tired from this new position, so take that into account.
Yeah I remember. That was the last time I had tests done too. They found some progression of my heart disease and she made some med adjustments. I'm thinking it's probably the same thing going on. I did have some med adjustments (lower doses) the last visit so maybe we need to tweak things a bit.
Thanks for the thoughts C1.... :)
FMP
PanickyGuy
18-07-21, 16:50
Yeah anxiety sure does make one more aware of their body, that's for sure. The sensitivity level can be through the roof sometimes. I mean it's like -
Holy #@%* what was that?! Oh... just gas. :blush: It's okay everybody. Not having a stroke.
Well, remember FMP, stress is never a friend to the body or heart disease, whether it's good stress (like starting a new job) or bad stress (like worrying over your wife falling). You might just be feeling the effects of that stress physically, and it will all even out in a week or two as you adjust.
The Nitro could well be a placebo effect too if the problem is "mechanical"?
Glad you are going to get checked out properly. Speculation is never helpful whereas a professional assessment and opinion is.
The Nitro could well be a placebo effect too if the problem is "mechanical"?
Glad you are going to get checked out properly. Speculation is never helpful whereas a professional assessment and opinion is.
I can assure you nitro doesn't have a placebo effect. You actually feel it working within minutes of the pill dissolving under your tongue. What it does is relax and widen the blood vessels so blood can flow more easily to the heart. When I took it the few times last week, I felt it kick in and the pain stopped. Nevertheless, I'll get it sorted.
Positive thoughts
https://www.bmj.com/rapid-response/2011/11/02/response-nitro-has-no-predictive-value-use-it-relieve-symptoms
I've had no experience whatsoever with nitro so forgive my ignorance but this may give you some reassurance?
https://www.bmj.com/rapid-response/2011/11/02/response-nitro-has-no-predictive-value-use-it-relieve-symptoms
I've had no experience whatsoever with nitro so forgive my ignorance but this may give you some reassurance?
Very interesting article!
How are you doing FMP?
Other than fatigue, I've been meh to Ok. Minor discomfort. Used a nitro once in the last few days and it alleviated the pain. Talked to my doctor and I'll be seeing her in a few weeks. Her opinion, based on the last exam a few months ago is that we should arrange a stress test and all the good stuff and see where that takes us. Of course, if it gets worse, head to the ER but for now things are stable.
Thanks for asking Jojo :)
FMP
Glad things are stable FMP and glad you've talked to your doctor.
How are things?
Thanks for asking Catkins. I'm feeling Ok. Just tired. The new job and hours are draining for sure. Fortunately, I've not had any pain nor needed a nitro since earlier this week. My cardiologist sent me a note and made an adjustment to my meds until I get in to see her. So far so good.
Positive thoughts
FMP, I'm sure the new job has had a lot to do with the way you feel. That will settle as I think it's already doing. xx
Glad things seem to be a bit more stable for now, FMP. Don’t push yourself too hard xx
Thanks for asking Catkins. I'm feeling Ok. Just tired. The new job and hours are draining for sure. Fortunately, I've not had any pain nor needed a nitro since earlier this week. My cardiologist sent me a note and made an adjustment to my meds until I get in to see her. So far so good.
Positive thoughts
Good to hear, FMP! :hugs:
Glad you have got this meds adjustment and that your cardiologist is looking after you. No new job is worth making yourself ill. Please look after yourself?
Glad you have got this meds adjustment and that your cardiologist is looking after you. No new job is worth making yourself ill. Please look after yourself?
Thanks P.... I do think some of what I'm feeling is truly heart related (as does my doctor) but the stress of the new job, going from basically reclining to a desk 8+ hours a day is definitely having an effect. The job (a MSR at a credit union in the fraud division) is a stressful job but I've done similar work at the bank I worked for. The thing is, the pay and benefits are awesome and I only have 4 years until I retire. When I can get myself into the groove, this will be a piece of cake. The stress comes from trying to learn their systems, software and procedures, basically everything, in 6 weeks :wacko: We started taking member calls last week and yeah, it's challenging to say the least. But quoting Confucius, "I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand." So the more I do it, the more comfortable I'll become.
The issue concerning my heart is another matter. It's been 14 years since my bypass and 9 years since my stents. I have diagnosed heart disease and it's not like it just goes away or gets better. Yeah, diet and exercise as well as meds help but it is a progressive disease. I'll be going for tests in the near future and we'll be able to get a better picture (literally) of what's going on. Worst case it may be some surgery (more stents), best case the med adjustments or an additional med may be necessary.
In the mean time, I just have to keep an eye on things. I'm feeling 'Ok' but definitely not up to par. Part of that is due to the med increase I'm sure and part to just being mentally and physically exhausted. But rest assured, I'm being vigilant and monitoring things.
Positive thoughts
Good to hear FMP. Take it easy and enjoy your weekend.
I remember you from years back always helping people. Glad to see you're still (relatively) ok. Have you heard of Dr Esselstyn? You should really look into his work if you're worried. The thing about coronary artery disease is that you can do something about it, which is great. The other forms of heart disease and abnormalities are a much scarier thought, imo.
It's a huge commitment and lifestyle change but you have nothing to lose. Give it 100% effort for 6 months and see how you feel/what your health markers are saying.
Not saying it is absolutely guaranteed to work, but you'd be giving yourself the best possible chance.
How are you doing FMP? X
Thanks for asking JoJo. I'm 'Ok'... It took a week or so but the med adjustment has helped. Not feeling 100% but better than I was. Once I get my schedule set (I'm in training), I'll call and set up an appointment for testing. I'm going to have to see a doctor about my knee as well. Injured it in a doggie accident in June and it's still not right. Fun stuff eh? :lac:
FMP
Ahhh yes. This was the knocked over by a doggie incident? I remember it and the sweet little video you posted, just so we could visualise the scenario. Poor you. But very glad you are ticking along. It’s the most any of us can hope for :-) xxx
Stuff takes forever to heal as you get older! It took a month for my arm to get back to normal!
Stuff takes forever to heal as you get older! It took a month for my arm to get back to normal!
I hear you AV! Still... something isn't right with the knee. It's definitely better and I'd say it's mostly an annoying pain at this point but I can feel a clicking when I walk and any sudden or off kilter motion causes pain. We see our GP next month so I'll have him take a look. Probably needs a scan or something to see what's going on in there. The chest pain has waned with the med change and I haven't needed a nitro in a couple weeks so that's encouraging. Like I said, once I get my regular schedule at work, I'll set up an appointment for a full heart workup... stress test and such. I also need to set up an appointment with my ENT Oncologist for a checkup. It's been a couple of years. No issues at all to speak of but its time.
As far as the getting older thing? Sheesh! No kidding! It's sobering to be honest. Even doing simple things like sitting on the floor cross legged hurts and trying to get up after 10 minutes? :lac:
Ahhh the joys of aging eh?
FMP
Hey I just read this right now
I really am hoping things are going good for you fishie❤️❤️
I always love to hear from you
Old age ain’t for sissies FMP! ;-) xx
I'm the same age as you, FMP and I'm not allowed to be "old"!:D
How are feeling lately Fishman?
How are feeling lately Fishman?
Thanks for asking Helen... Overall, Ok. Chest pain has abated since the med change. Knee still bothering me. I'm seeing my doctor on Sept. 14th and I'll go over things then, get referrals and set up appointments with my cardiologist and oncologist. The new job knocks the poo out of me mentally though. The pay and benefits are awesome and the company is great but it is stressful (dealing with fraud in the banking industry). If I can adjust to the workload, I'll be fine. I plan on retiring in a little over 4 years so... :)
FMP
Sorry I haven’t commented on this before FMP. I’m glad you’re feeling a bit better.
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No job is worth jeopardising your health for..no matter how financially lucrative. Take care of yourself, FMP..You've had to contend with so much in the past. Glad you have got that initial appointment booked for mid September.
Are you a lawyer FMP?
No... Member Services Representative for a large credit union. I'm work in the call center in the fraud and digital department and help members who've had their accounts compromised so you can imagine the volume of calls that come in, especially since the pandemic. The job itself isn't that difficult as I've been in customer service my entire career but learning the systems and procedures has been challenging. But that's getting easier by the day as I learn and do it. It's the non-stop for 8 hours a day that's draining. Calls literally are back to back for most of the day. I get breaks and all but still ~whew~
FMP
I agree with Pulisa FMP. I'm sure you know your threshold though and you are probably over the worst of the hurdles. x
I agree with Pulisa FMP. I'm sure you know your threshold though and you are probably over the worst of the hurdles. x
Yeah, I am. The support is top notch so if I run into a road block, I can call support and they help me through. I'm actually working on site and the COVID protocols are very stringent and heavily enforced so that's not an issue at all. I've only been out of training less than a week and a half so I'm definitely still acclimating and learning. Once I'm feeling more comfortable and confident, I'm going to ask about going remote or a hybrid version. Most of the employees are remote anyway.
FMP
That sounds like a really good plan FMP. I think hybrid is going to be the way forward for a lot of people.
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