I need some real quick advise about cardiac caths. Hopefully, someone will respond at this late date.
Last Thursday night while driving, I experienced some chest pain radiating to my right shoulder and back, shortness of breath and severe diaphoresis. I presented to the ER where I was admitted to the telemetry unit overnight. All EKG's were normal. I never experienced any more chest pain that night....this episode lasted approximately 45 minutes. As far as I have been informed, my telemetry readings were normal all night. Early the next morning I was given a cardiac treadmill stress test. This apparently came out good too. The cardiologist that was with me told me that the echo was normal, my valves all looked good and the EKG just before the stress test was normal. Then he said the EKG during and after the test did not come back normal. He said if I have any more chest pain, they would automatically do a catheterization.
Well, I have had 2 more separate episodes of very mild pain in my chest and my right arm. I didn't call him as I was instructed. I have a appointment with him first thing in the morning for a follow up exam.
Heres my question....do you think this warrants a cardiac catheterization this quickly? I have experienced a heck of a lot of stress in the past few months and I am hoping that it is stress related and can be treated by rest (medical leave from work for a few weeks) and medicine...antidepressant and whatever he suggests.
How should I express my concerns to this doctor without insulting his professional opinion? What questions should I have ready? CAn anyone give me a brief overview of the procedure? I have NO cardiac nursing experience and this is putting even more stress on me.
