Managing My Mother's Heart Condition: Seeking Guidance for Cardiac Issues

Myocardial infarction

My mother is 68 years old and has a myocardial infarction.
She experiences a sensation of suffocation when lying flat, which has prevented her from undergoing examinations (tests).
As a result, she can only receive medication treatment, but its effectiveness is diminishing, and she is requiring rescue medication more frequently.
Additionally, she has gastrointestinal issues and often experiences belching, but only partially, which exacerbates her chest discomfort and worsens her heart condition.
I am at a loss about what to do.
The doctor mentioned that without tests, it is impossible to assess her cardiovascular status.
I don't know what to do anymore.
With the New Year approaching, I am always prepared to call 911 because she is feeling unwell again.
Please give me some advice!

Wu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/01/26

Dr. Bu Shiyun reply Cardiology

I apologize for the late response.
If your mother continues to feel unwell, she can still be taken to the emergency room.
The physician will perform the necessary examinations and evaluations to determine if there has been a myocardial infarction, which requires a comprehensive assessment.
If the effects of the medication are not satisfactory, you can discuss the situation further with the physician.

Reply Date: 2009/01/26

More Info

Managing a loved one's heart condition can be incredibly challenging, especially when they experience symptoms that are distressing and difficult to manage. Your mother's situation, with a history of myocardial ischemia, presents several concerns that need to be addressed carefully. Here’s a comprehensive approach to managing her condition, considering both her physical symptoms and emotional well-being.

Understanding the Symptoms
1. Shortness of Breath and Chest Discomfort: Your mother's experience of feeling suffocated when lying down is known as orthopnea, which can be a sign of heart failure or fluid overload. This symptom often indicates that the heart is struggling to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs when lying flat. It’s crucial to monitor this symptom closely.

2. Increased Need for Rescue Medication: The fact that your mother is requiring her rescue medication more frequently is concerning. This could indicate that her heart condition is worsening, and it may not be adequately controlled with her current medication regimen.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues: The gastrointestinal discomfort and the sensation of gas can complicate her cardiac symptoms. Sometimes, cardiac issues can manifest as gastrointestinal problems, leading to confusion about the source of discomfort. It’s essential to differentiate between cardiac-related symptoms and gastrointestinal distress.

Immediate Steps to Take
1. Seek Emergency Care: Given that your mother is experiencing worsening symptoms and increased reliance on rescue medication, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. If her condition deteriorates or if she experiences severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or other alarming symptoms, do not hesitate to call emergency services (119).
2. Consult a Cardiologist: If possible, arrange for a consultation with a cardiologist who can evaluate her condition more thoroughly. While she may be resistant to certain tests, a cardiologist can provide alternative options for assessment that may be less invasive or more tolerable for her.

3. Medication Review: Review her current medications with her healthcare provider. It may be necessary to adjust dosages or switch to different medications that can better manage her symptoms and improve her quality of life.

Long-Term Management Strategies
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage your mother to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle changes. This includes a balanced diet low in sodium and saturated fats, regular physical activity as tolerated, and stress management techniques. Even gentle activities like walking can be beneficial, provided they are done safely.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of her symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for her healthcare providers in adjusting her treatment plan.

3. Educate and Support: Educate yourself and your mother about her condition. Understanding her heart disease can empower both of you to make informed decisions about her care. Additionally, emotional support is crucial; consider involving family members or support groups to help her cope with the psychological aspects of living with a chronic condition.

4. Palliative Care Consideration: If her condition continues to decline and her quality of life is significantly affected, discussing palliative care options with her healthcare team may provide additional support. Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life and managing symptoms rather than solely focusing on curative treatment.

Conclusion
Managing your mother's heart condition requires a multifaceted approach that includes immediate medical attention, long-term management strategies, and emotional support. It’s essential to remain vigilant about her symptoms and proactive in seeking care. By working closely with healthcare professionals and ensuring she feels supported, you can help improve her quality of life and manage her heart condition more effectively. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources available to assist both you and your mother.

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