Update:
On Monday (8/14) I went to the ER with chest pains. They did a lot of tests and concluded that I did not have a heart attack. So I was sent home and scheduled for a follow-up with my primary physician. I was told to get a cardiac stress test as soon as possible.
On Thursday (8/17) I went back to the ER with chest pains again. Once again they said I had not had a heart attack. This time they admitted me to the hospital for observation and further testing. Lots and Lots and Lots of testing.
On Friday (8/18) I took the stress test and they found that I had one small area in the lower left chamber that wasn't working correctly (ischemia).
On Saturday (8/19) I had a heart catherization. They did not find anything that could be stented, fixed or repaired. My arteries are all clear. They are attributing my chest pain to Small Vessel Disease, a common issue with those who have had diabetes. So they prescribe medicines and discharged me on Saturday night.
Whew! What a life-changing week!!!
I am extremely grateful for the care I received. My Hospitalist and nursing staff were outstanding!!!! Thank you Sarah, Kendall, Emily, and most especially, Dawn. I had a three hour episode of chest pain on Saturday and Dawn was with me for almost every second, getting me the care I needed and helping me through it all.
This week ahead, I have two medical appointments to go to and otherwise I am staying home and doing absolutely nothing!!!
I'm scheduled to fly to St. Louis next Monday (8/28). My brother is getting married Labor Day weekend and I am performing the ceremony. So I plan on being "good boy" and not take any risks this week so that it actually happens.
I'd appreciate your prayers for the medication to work well with minimal side effects, and that I do not have any repeat episodes of chest pain. Hopefully, we'll get the med levels balanced and I will be able to resume more of my "normal" lifestyle soon.
