Just found out I have heart failure

[PatsyCatsy]

I've name changed for this, because it makes me feel ridiculously vulnerable.

I'm 62 and my health has not been great for some years. Every couple of year I get prescribed something new. I currently take 12 different tablets or capsules a day plus 3 inhalers.

This last year has been different. I was in hospital for 3 days with asthma and COPD this time next year, then again for a week in July. I've never been hospitalised for breathing difficulties before. At the time everyone put it down to my lifelong asthma, which seems to have masked the underlying issue.

I have been relentlessly Ill all year, getting a chest infection every six weeks or so since January. I knew there was something serious going on but had no idea what.

Then on Friday I was told that I have heart failure, but they don't know what's causing it. They've referred me to the hospital for an echocardiogram. They took loads of bloods and will call me when the results come back.

I make a point of not googling medical stuff but I was so scared I did. I have all the symptoms. I may not live long. For myself I'm not so bothered. I've been ill for so long. I have chronic back pain, depression and anxiety. My quality of life is poor.

I have two adult sons in their early 20s living at home and a DSD who loves me. Their dad died when the boys were at primary school. Me dying prematurely is the last thing they need. My older son never fully recovered from the death of his dad.

My parents are still alive. My death would be a terrible blow to them.

I guess I'm hoping for reassurance or perhaps just a hand hold.

I don’t have any advice but am offering a hand hold. Did they say how long it’ll be for the results to come back?

I'm so sorry you've received such awful news. Does it definitely mean that your life expectancy will be shortened? Cant they treat it with any surgery or medication?

Oh OP here's a handhold and sending a hug. A big one.

No RL experience of this exact scenario but...

Try not to panic (easier said than done I know) and STEP AWAY FROM GOOGLE. honestly, google is your enemy here and will do you no good.

Hopefully when your results come through you will have a clearer picture of what the future holds and there is no use worrying over what google says could or will happen as it simply won't be the case for you.

Hopefully someone with more experience will be along soon. But keep chatting to us in the meantime if it helps.

I'm sorry, it must have been a shock. However, many people with heart failure go on to be stable for many years-my mum has lived with heart failure, severe asthma and COPD for the last 20 years perfectly happily. There are many medications and in some cases surgery that can be used to improve quality of life and life expectancy so I wouldn't be writing my will just yet. Are you getting any support for your anxiety/depression? I would ask to be referred to a psychologist that supports people with severe health conditions.

Thanks for answering. No they didn't. I could ring the surgery and ask. That's a good idea.

My mum was diagnosed with heart failure 8 years ago. Her heart problems are successfully dealt with with medication and she's doing fine. I know you must be really worried but it really might not be as bad as you think. I'd avoid Google too because I think that can just give you more to worry about.

I called the surgery and all my bloods are OK apart from my diabetic one, which the diabetic nurse will see me about. So that's got to be good news.

I'm so grateful for all your replies. It's very encouraging to hear how many of you know people doing well with heart failure.

I have been so exhausted the past few months and if they can treat my heart I presume I perhaps won't be so knackered. That would be an amazing result.

Guess I have to travel hopefully and steer clear of Google.

I'll update if I get any more information. I guess the heart scan will provide answers.

My friend was diagnosed with cardio myopathy at 34. Was an awful shock but the meds have made such a difference to her life. Try not to worry too much.

My Gran was diagnosed with congestive heart failure at 70 and we just celebrated her birthday last week - she turned 93. I think the scariest statistics you see on the internet are a bit old and the new meds have changed the situation for the better.

I forgot to say that I'm sorry you are in this situation and it must be so frightening. I hope you get all the scans and examinations you need very soon and that they find the best treatments for you so that your condition improves.

Oh jeez, sorry to read that. Others are right, though, every case is individual & you need your doctor to explain to you what your situation is.

My Mum was diagnosed with congestive heart failure 25 years ago. She had a mitral valve replacement, and later a defibrillator and pacemaker fitted. It has been a battle but she is still here even with only 10% heart function. If she can survive all that so can you. Good luck

I guess think positive....they’ve found the problem and will now be able to steps to fix it. Good luck.

Sorry to hear your news its good they can now start treating you. It is worth sharing your concerns regarding your children as they may be able to offer information or support which will help practically, particularly regarding the treatments you are having and how to support the family and you while you have the texts and uncertainty.