Cardiac Spasms Diagnosis

I had been in the hospital for my heart recently. It really wasn't a biggy, had such been I would have called my Mom and Uncle letting them know that I was now part of their Heart Club of cardiac bypasses in the Family. The year was 2000 when my Mother had a 4 heart bypass. Additionally; at this time the Cardiac Surgeon preformed a triple loop with one of her veins to the heart, a procedure that supposedly had never been done before. Shortly afterwards - maybe within a few years; my Uncle had a one heart bypass. As CAD (coronary artery disease) continues to spread throughout the Family, my Uncle telephones others to welcome them to what he calls "The Zipper Club". Though currently with the rapid advancement in medical technology, some heart surgery patients are now glued with incision down their chest.

Well knowing our Family heart tradition and not wanting my Little Sister to have to blindly attend to my affairs with all my Sis had and is going through, I prepared my Living Will. Something I would like to encourage everyone to do, even if you aren't planning on going into the hospital any time soon. Especially since things unfortunately happen unexpectedly in life. These unfortunate events are called accidents, tragedies, etc. And it is the Family whom must deal with your affairs and the Doctors. A Living Will is NOT a will about your personal belongings, property, etc. - rather a Living Will is simply a "DECLARATION OF A DESIRE FOR A NATURAL DEATH" that basically consists of:

INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING ARTIFICIAL NUTRITION AND HYDRATION

INITIAL ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS:

If my condition is terminal and could result in death within a reasonably short time,

______ I direct that nutrition and hydration BE PROVIDED through any medically indicated means, including medically or surgically implanted tubes.
______ I direct that nutrition and hydration NOT BE PROVIDED through medically indicated means, including medically or surgically implanted tubes.

INITIAL ONE OF THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS:

If I am in a persistent vegetative state or other condition of permanent unconsciousness,

______ I direct that nutrition and hydration BE PROVIDED through medically indicated means, including medically or surgically implanted tubes.
______ I direct that nutrition and hydration NOT BE PROVIDED through medically indicated means, including medically or surgically implanted tubes.

(Download your Free Living Will).

I'm not sure about a DNR (Do not resuscitate), that would also need to be a personal decision. Bear in mind however; that a DNR is a choice made by you that includes a written DNR Order by you and/or from a doctor that resuscitation such as CPR should not be attempted if a person suffers cardiac or respiratory arrest. This includes No resuscitation from paramedics. You might want to only decide on a DNR Order if "resuscitation would not alter the ultimate outcome of a disease, and will prevent unnecessary suffering."

Having made my Living Will, I knew that I've had an undiagnosed heart problem since the first onset in March 2003. Heart palpitations sent me to the emergency room then. Conclusive only for an unexplained high pulse rate. However; the stress test was inconclusive because I had an asthma attack during the test. Then the paper work from the ER Doctor that recommend I wear a Holter monitor for 24 hours - had gotten lost in the process, so I just never followed through. Until April this year when I was at the emergency room twice in one week for chest pains.

The EKG (electrocardiogram) showed NO heart attack, however; I did test positive on the D-dimer blood test for a blood clot. An IV contrast CAT Scan (CT Angiography (CTA)) of my lungs fortunately showed no clot in the lungs, so I was diagnosed with a possible 10% heart blockage. Still I refused to be admitted to the hospital. However; I did want to follow-up with their recommendation for a cardiac nuclear stress test. Only to learn what it is like to be laid-off, unemployed, uninsured, and living in America. Finally I got in the back door of a local hospital at MUSC Ashley River Tower (Specializing in Heart & Vascular Disease and Digestive Disease), to at least have the test done.

My Primary Physician saved me money by calling - instead of scheduling an expensive consultation with her. She stated I needed to see a cardiologist STAT because my stress test was positive (abnormal). Unable to get approved for MUSC Cardiologists, I was fortunate to find a private Cardiologist to work with me financially. So happen the same Cardiologist a Friend of mine has! This Cardiologist stated the stress test showed Ischemia, a lack of oxygen to a certain part of the body. Fortunately though, the heart scans showed a healthy undamaged heart! However; based on our Family history of CAD (coronary artery disease), my high cholesterol, my smoking, shortness of breath, etc. the Cardiologist wanted to look further. So Wednesday I went in for a Coronary Catheterization at Roper St. Francis Hospital. It was an in and out (the same day) procedure that took about 8 hours.

They used an Angio-Seal vascular closure device that "quickly seals femoral artery punctures following catheterization procedures, allowing for early ambulation and hospital discharge. The device creates a mechanical seal by sandwiching the arteriotomy between a bio-absorbable anchor and collagen sponge, which dissolve within 60 to 90 days."

Had the Doctor found anything wrong with my heart such as a blockage, etc. I would have remained in the hospital for the procedure. Fortunately; the Cardiologist only found cardiac spasms (coronary artery spasm) which apparently he found amusingly interesting like I was some kind of video game to play with as he showed me the heart spasms on the monitor. The Doctor doesn't seem to concerned and feels that though rare, my migraines may be the contributor. He muttered some kind of medical word for it to me while I was highly medicated. So far I found this on the internet to best recall my memory of his muttered words, Migraine and angina pectoris:

"A migrainous patient who experienced chest pain attributed to angina pectoris by coronary artery spasm during a migraine attack."

I'm to see this Cardiologist for a follow-up appointment in July. However; as I said he doesn't seem to concerned about the cardiac spasms. Whereas my search on the internet says different:

"Angina is caused by Ischemia (oxygen starvation) of the cardiac muscle. Coronary artery spasm produces ischemia by narrowing the coronary arteries. The narrowed artery is incapable of delivering the necessary blood volume to the working muscle. Ischemia ensues, and the resultant pain is called angina."

My concern is in further research I have learnt that Ischemia being a "lack of oxygen can resultant damage or dysfunction of tissue or organs". And something as simply as Calcium channel blockers can help. So if this Cardiologist doesn't seem concerned about any possible future damage, or give me any medicine for this condition, I may get a second opinion from a Cardiologist at MUSC; who has since approved me to be seen.

For now my current Cardiologist has prescribe me Nitroglycerin, so if I get more chest pains - instead of assuming it is from the migraines I am to take up to three sprays within 5 minute intervals, if that doesn't stop the pain I am to get to an emergency room.

If anyone knows more information on Migraine and angina pectoris, and/or Coronary artery spasm Please inform me and/or send related links. Thank You!

Meanwhile; here's to the 90 days of currently mild pain, discomfort, and finally the Angio-Seal magical evaporation!


Related articles: Women's migraines linked to higher stroke, heart attack risk CNN.com

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• Combating Heart Disease In Women (cbsnews.com)

BRAS Breast Cancer Awareness

BRAS FOR A CAUSE

BRAS FOR A CAUSE:
¹"Members of Quilters of South Carolina have created one-of-a-kind bras for Breast Cancer Awareness. The exhibit consists of fifty original works of art which are unique, entertaining, humorous, and beautiful to make the public aware of breast cancer, to memorialize those lost to the disease, and to honor survivors.

This exhibit will tour SC until Oct '09 at which time individual Artful Bras will be auctioned and the proceeds donated to the Best Chance Network, a program that helps women ages 40 to 64 who need to be screened for breast and cervical cancer, but do not have insurance or have insurance that only covers hospital care, and who meet certain income guidelines.

The bras come prepared for display on their own hangers and are available for exhibit across the state of South Carolina. The exhibit is available until October of 2009."

click to View all The Artfull Bras

Exhibit Schedule

May 28 Private Showing

May 29-31 Private Showing

June 1-11
8:30-5:00 daily
215 E. Calhoun Street
Anderson, SC
864-222-3500

*site may change

June 12-15 Private Showing

June 16-26
8:30-5:00 daily
Center for the Arts
121 E. Calhoun Street
Rock Hill, SC

June 27-July 8
Quilters Cottage
2571 S Ocean Hwy - Business 17
Garden City, SC 29576
10-5 Monday - Saturday
1-5 Sunday
843-651-4004

July 22 - 25
American Quilter's Society Show
Knoxville, TN

June 27-30 Private Showing

July 9-19 Private Showing

August 1-28
Artist's Guild Gallery
Main Street
Greenville, SC

September 1-12
History and Arts Museum
Gaffney, SC

September 14-15 Private Showing

September 18-21 Private Showing

September 25-27 Private Showing

September 30 - October 4
12th Annual Aunt Het Quilt Show
Nimble Thimble Quilt Guild
610 Fairview Street
Fountain, SC
9-5 Saturday
12-4 Sunday
864- 862-4675

October 5 - 12
Pieces and Patches
711 H East Main Street
Lexington, SC 29072
803-359-3442

Additionally; "QSC has produced a CD/PowerPoint presentation of the ARTFULL BRA PROJECT for purchase by individuals and groups alike. A narrative of the inspiration behind the construction of each entry will provide meaningful insight and share with the viewer poignant memories of loved ones who have survived and those we have lost to breast cancer.

A minimum donation of $35.00 for each CD purchased is required. Funds go to Best Chance Network, which provides services and screenings for uninsured women who have been diagnosed with breast or cervical cancer."

To order visit Quilters of South Carolina

1. The Artfull Bra Project

"Quilters of South Carolina began in February 1994 with a group of women with a big love of quilting. The first meeting was held in Columbia. Our first president was Helen Fairchild. We have since grown to almost 700 members from around the state as well as neighboring states."

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• Health Canada approves drug for some breast cancers (cbc.ca)
• Published Data Confirms First 3D Ultrasound for Breast Cancer Treatment Planning Helps Radiation Oncologists Better Define Treatment Region (newswire.ca)

Medicine for Huntington’s Disease

 Quoted directly from Huntington's Disease Society of America (links have been added for your convenience)

Dear HDSA members,

We are pleased to announce today that Xenazine* (tetrabenazine) Tablets, the first and only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington’s Disease (HD), is now available in the United States. We know that those affected by HD, your caregivers, physicians and family members, have been waiting decades for an HD treatment option, and we are delighted that for the first time ever people with HD will have an approved option to consider to treat their chorea**. This is particularly momentous because of all of the effort that our community invested in helping to secure FDA approval of Xenazine.

HDSA has been working in collaboration with Ovation Pharmaceuticals during preparations to introduce this drug in the U.S., which will be available through specialty pharmacies. I am impressed with the company’s strong commitment to the HD community and with the many programs they have put in place to support the needs of people affected by Huntington’s Disease. As part of its commitment to make Xenazine broadly available, Ovation has developed extensive patient support programs with the goal of eliminating financial barriers to the therapy.

To find out more about Xenazine and if it is the right treatment for you or for your loved one:

Go see your physician

Call Ovation’s Xenazine information line: 1-888-882-6013

Visit Xenazineusa.com

Note: there is more information about the comprehensive patient support programs for Xenazine on this website.

This truly is a milestone to be celebrated, and we’re so proud to share this news with you. Congratulations and thank you again for your ongoing commitment as we continue to work together to make important advancements for the HD community.

Warm regards,

Barbara Boyle

National Executive Director/CEO, HDSA


* Xenazine is a registered trademark of Cambridge Laboratories (Ireland) Limited.

** Xenazine is FDA-approved to treat chorea, one of the symptoms seen in people with HD. Chorea is a debilitating movement disorder characterized by excessive, involuntary and repetitive movements that are one of the most visible manifestations of Huntington’s Disease.

Important links: How to Order Xenazine (tetrabenazine)

Note:  On February 9, 2009 Ovation Pharmaceuticals was bought by Lundbeck Inc.

Breast Cancer Doesn't Stop on 10/31

October may be Breast Cancer Awareness Month, however; we must not stop on October 31 the Awareness about Breast Cancer and taking steps to help prevent and finding a cure for Breast Cancer.

As the Susan G. Komen RACE FOR THE CURE commences in my area of the LowCountry today at Daniel Island, SC; may we all become acquainted with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Organization. "Susan G. Komen for the Cure is one of hundreds of local chapters around the country working diligently to further the Foundation's mission to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening and treatment."

"Susan G. Komen for the Cure was founded on a promise between two sisters." This is an emotionally touching true story about the two Sisters, Suzy and Nan. Nancy details the onset of the unfortunate diagnosis, “As if it were yesterday, I can remember the phone call I received from Suzy one Tuesday afternoon. Her doctor had found a lump in her breast that was not a cyst. He recommended a biopsy.” Nancy pours her heart out in words about the hopeful surgical procedure and chemically induced treatments her Sister had to endure. She talks about the year 1978 when we learnt about First Lady, Mrs. Ford being diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing a mastectomy. Her Sister responding, "Nan," she said, "as soon as I get better, let's do something about this. You can find a way to speed up the research. I know you can. And I want to fix up this waiting room and make it pretty for the women who have to be here. This isn't right."

To date, Nancy G. Brinker writes; "As I look back over the last 25 years since I founded Susan G. Komen for the Cure, I am amazed at our accomplishments. What began as a promise to my dying sister, Susan G. Komen, has evolved into the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures…" Message From Our Founder

I encourage all to please visit Susan G. Komen for the Cure to learn more about this Organization and Breast Cancer.

Don’t STOP October 31, continue the Awareness

Intermission: The Secret Of Sadness

Binding Ink is interjecting momentary ‘Ink Blots’ known as Intermission, while my written expressions in re to life, events, etc. are being fully created prior to posting. Therefore; if you have any reviews on books or movies you would like ‘Temporarily Blotted’ on Binding Ink please contact me. Thanks!

Today’s Intermission: (Article):

Why Knowing The Secret Of Sadness Is Important To Your Health? by Zach Kong

To be frank with you, the secret of sadness is no secret at all. It is just that many of us fail to see it even though it is always right in front of us.

I believe both you and I know that sadness is just a part and parcel of life. This is the truth and will always be the truth.

Regardless of who you are or how much you earn, you are bound to experience sadness as you travel through this journey I call Life.

In fact, when you start to look closely into the secret of sadness, it actually states taht happiness is the root cause of all sadness.

You can never experience sorrow without first experiencing happiness or and displeasure without contentment.

Happiness and sadness are just 2 sides of the same coin. They come together and they will be together. One follows the other.

All sadness and sorrows arise from your misconception of happiness. To be more accurate, your wrong preception of your lost happiness.

Now think about it carefully. Can happiness really be lost? Is it really true that our "lost" happiness can never be acquired back and experienced again?

The truth is, those happy moments and experiences are not lost and never are.

What you have lost is in fact the source of it. Not the happiness itself.

For example you are just fired from a job you really, really like. How do you feel? Sad!

So what are you really sad about? It is because of the job or it is because of other issues like having to leave your kind and helpful colleagues? Your passion for the job? The fulfillment you get from the job?

When you really start to look into it, you will start to find that what you have really lost or what you missed is not the source of the happiness. You are in fact missing the good feeling or positive emotion you obtain from them.

Therefore by constantly focusing your attention on the source of your happiness and your lost of it, you will not be going anywhere but continuously feeling sad for your perceived loses, happiness.

It may be true that you have lost the source of it; however you have never lost that happiness. You just have to look for it at a different place.

When one door of happiness closes, another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us.
~~ Helen Keller ~~

Now I am not saying that you shouldn't feel sad over someone's death or over the lost of something you missed dearly.

What I am trying to say is that sadness should not be used as an excuse for you to indulge in self-pity and self sympathy.

What I learn from the secret of sadness is that sadness in fact is another way you express your gratitude and appreciation for the thing, person or event which bring you your happiness.

You feel sad because you miss the good old times, joy and laughter you had, acknowledging the fact that you will not be receiving your happiness anytime soon from them.

In addition, you also recognize the fact that your happiness is in fact not all lost. You just have to move forward and keep looking.

Therefore rather than constantly looking at the closed door and hoping that it will be opened up for you again, why not focuse your attention on the present and start looking for new and more interesting opportunities that are sure to come your way?

Remember the secret of sadness? Happiness is never lost. You just have to keep looking in front you not and not get blinded by your past perceived "lost".

Zach Kong is web entrepreneur, a self mastery trainer and advisor. He has written several articles on self improvement and revealing the secret of sadness. His websites have provided people with valuable advice, free tools and useful resources.

For more information and resources, click on www.ZachKong.com


© The article above is copyrighted by it's author. You're allowed to distribute this work according to the Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs license.

Menopause

As a Writer, there are times we must assume all roles, be it male or female. So Guys, this subject may not be for you, despite the fact that ‘men’ is included in the word. All the same, many may have read the story about “The Boy Who Cried Wolf”. “Chicken Little” the sky is falling, the sky is falling. Or heard the expression, “Liar, liar pants on fire”. And so it was with my two hen layers. They had become pathological liars. Oh yea, we’ll start on the first. Oh, we meant we would start on the first and the 20th. Or the 25th through the 10th. Oh, or we forgot! Did we startle you! Hence began the pathological passageway of scrutinizing the false alarmists. Talk about being hen pecked! One Doctor would poke here. Another Doctor would probe there. Here a henny penny, there a hen penny, everywhere a penny, until nothing made sense. Picture this, the only thing that did develop - was my two new friends, negatives and false positives. Meanwhile, I had become more cantankerous. Can’t take this, can’t take that – tetchy, touchy, tetchy. So I was given a daily dose of Artificial Happiness. Smile damn you, smile! Indeed, a hard pill to swallow. Once absorbed, I could almost hear the medication screaming, you want me to do what! This isn’t a chicken coop, it’s a pigs sty! Mother Nature had taken her path, a logical course. She had gone in like a thief in the night. Made a mess of everything, then at age 44 she robbed me of my womanhood. All that remained were unpredictable periods of rain, showers, storms, droughts…. Mostly showers. ‘Sew’ a Doctor suggested cauterization. What! Cauterized sounded like a word that belonged with neutered, spayed. Apparently, I had been acting like an animal, but cauterization! Um, yes solder the lining of your uterus. Then move the play pin - give everything a good dusting and cleaning. Sure why not! And while you’re there, give me a tubal ligation so my ovaries can be as tongue tied as I am speechless! That won’t be necessary, Ma'am’. This procedure however; will replace the hen layers with a Rooster featured weather vane to point more accurately. Well, poke me with a fork and call me done. Out with the old and in with the new, let the remodeling commence! And so, ‘Once upon a time’ youth prevailed. Now I must trade what is left of my youth for health, in hopes of living a ‘happy ever after.’ ~The End