Enuff,Already!
Entry posted by ajcee
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In early 2002, at age 75, I suffered a brain stem stroke and was put on a regimen of coumadin. During 2003, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and was treated with a series of external radiation. 2004 welcomed me with chest pain caused by blocked heart arteries, One of which was completely blocked and calcified which required a rotoblation procedure (like roto-rooter) in order to reach the heart.During this procedure, the guide wire tip was accidently cut, and remains in my heart. Four stents were placed in my heart and in place of the coumadin, I was placed on Plavix and baby aspirin.
In the past two weeks there has been a convergence of these illnesses, furthering complications and calling for risky decisions. After almost 13 years of blood thinner therapy, I was taken to hos[ital with a GI bleed and taken off blood thinners. I was told to discontinue Plavix and continue to take baby aspirin upon my release. Four days later, I reentered the hospital with a mild heart attack and underwent a series of tests which included an angiogram.
Yesterday, I was told by my cardiologist that while there was no blockage in the stents, the heart attack was caused by the stoppage of Plavix which had to be done to prevent further bleeding.The wire that remains in my heart, although covered with tissue and is no puncturing threat,but does cause a problem as it serves as a barrier for the accumulation of blood clots. There is no choice but to introduce the Plavix again along with the baby aspirin, the Plavix on an every other day basis.
Thus , there remains the increased risk of another stroke or heart attack and the prostate cancer which has been in remission for 10 years has recurred, making it likely for a return to hormone therapy or chemotherapy. It is like a medical smorgasbord that lies before me without choice. and that is not to add the recent diagnosis of extreme cerebellum atrophy. What the hell, I am ten years above the average American life span, so when the end arrives, my certificate will read,"Died of natural causes!"
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