Recent content by LeakyUK

I have a Sorin, at the time the Standard NHS Valve. I only hear the ticking when lying in certain positions, & it is no louder than a good watch. There are ongoing concerns in the Uk regarding contaminated Breast Implants & certain types of Hip implants. I am happy to have an older design with...

LeakyUK Mech Aortic Valve May 2011 (Age 58) Warfarin 5.5 MG, INR VERY STEADY at 2.7 - 2.9 - Testing now every 8 weeks.

Many people talk about sips of water, or licking an ice cube after coming round. I had no recollection of the passage of time but had food provided in ICU several times, which my system disapproved of. I eventually got the message and fasted for 24 hours. As for Flu, I had the flu jab, and my...

The runners, skiers and weighlifters will be along soon. I had a mech valve at 58, was out of hospital after 6 days and slowly built up strength through walking. The pain was astonishingly less than expected, and far less than I experienced with 'minor' problems previously. By 3 months I felt...

I have been on Warfarin for 6 months - my observations 1) INR Tested weekly to 4 weekly. Dose between 4.5 and 6 each day, prescribed by surgery & taken consistently - same dose each day. 2) I take several other Meds so make up a weeks supply in a pillbox - minimal hassle 3) No problems with...

My long distance vision chaned for the worse after surgery (My eye shape changed). I was relived when I had an eye test and new glasses at 3 months.

I was walking after 48 hrs, managed a couple of miles after 2 weeks, driving after 7 weeks (Not allowed until after follow up appointment or insurance invalid). I was still a little sore - especially when looking behind. By 3 months I was cutting down a rogue tree and feeling very good.

I am taking Prozac (fluoxetine) without any problems.

Hi, try a UK Specialist adviser. I got insurance through Lifesearch (http://www.lifesearch.co.uk/) 9 years ago after undergoing all sorts of tests (Including heart). The tests were negative at the time but they knew which companies to approach. There is no extra charge since the life companies...

I have not felt better, and happier, in years. My valve is now a friend & I enjoy listening to it. I needed antidepressants before the op to help cope, fortunately I only had a few months to wait.

I like my mech valve, warfarin is not a problem and I am hopeful my quick access hatch will not need to be re-opened in the future.

I dont believe in fighting the pills. You will be taking plenty after surgery. I started fluoxetene (Prozac) after I was diagnosed, and am now slowly coming off - its not addictive but best not to change too much at once.

Aortic repairs are uncommon in the UK - this is the high pressure side. My cardiologist indicated that my valve might be suitable for a repair, the surgeon said NO - he knew I wanted to minimize risk of a Re-op.

I had a mech at 58 and 4 months on feel better than I have in years. I did bang my leg and grew a big bruise and I have given up scary amusement park rides to my sons disgust but no other problems so far. Warfarin control has been pretty good.

I chose Mech at 58 and am just over 3 months out. Testing is at GP surgery and results are instant. I was steady at 4.5 mg/day for 6 weeks, then my INR fell to 1.7 (and has stayed there after an increase in Warfarin). I am back on twice weekly testing. Possibly because I have significantly...