Is there a CHF connection?

Hi everybody...

Since the end of October, I have noticed that when I walk any distance, I get some shortness of breath and chest tightness. Then, as soon as I stop and sit, I am fine. Also, at the end of the day I noticed some ankle swelling or impressions where the elastic top of my socks grip my calf. I have had a PM since July 2007. I am overweight and do have allergies. My primary doc thinks its Reactive Airway Disease caused by allergies, almost like an allergy induced asthma.

I've seen articles linking PM and CHF. Has anyone had these types of symptoms, or could it be a totally separate thing.

When I am sitting or laying down, I feel perfectly fine.

Out of shape.....allergies....something else....maybe I should get it checked out.

Thanks for any feedback you can offer.

Steve

3 Comments

CHF the connection.....

by maryanne - 2009-02-08 02:02:34

There are many causes for Congestive Heart Failure(CHF).
CHF occurs when the heart basically becomes ineffective as a pump. The results of this can be seen as an increased shortness of breath(SOB), and increased swelling(edema) in the ankles or hands.

Being overweight has been related with increase chance CHF. Often people who are overweight have an increased Blood Pressure(BP) this increased BP puts extra pressure on your arteries and untimately your heart.

As I said there are many reasons for CHF and having a PM is one...but for that to happen there would have to be other contributing factors. Generally the chances of CHF from a PM implant is less likely than the chance of getting CHF as a result of a heart attack or myodcarditis or as I said hypertension caused by being overweight.

Here is a link that you might want to check out from MedicineNet.com. It explains CHF and it causes and treatments......hope you find this helpful....
http://www.medicinenet.com/congestive_heart_failure/article.htm

When ever in doubt always check with your doctor....and be your own best friend and see if you could lose a lb or two...your heart will thank you for it..and so will you!
Good health to you...and great question...cheers, MaryAnne

Thanks for your info and support!

by bullito818 - 2009-02-08 03:02:26

MaryAnne:

I really appreciate the time you took to answer my concerns so thoroughly.

Thanks again and be well!

Steve

Your Welcome

by maryanne - 2009-02-09 10:02:49

Hey Steve....

Anytime....that is what this site is all about...folks helping other folks out......all the best.....

cheers, Mary Anne

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