Question:
EKG test ????????? IMPORTANT!!!!!!! HELP????????

I am having an EKG on my heart on Monday. I'm scared that they will discover I've had a heart-attack, as I believe I may have had eariler this year. If they do discover this, will I still be able to have surgery??????    — Renee B. (posted on October 17, 2003)

October 17, 2003
As a former ER nurse, I can tell you that MOST of the time the ekg will only show a heart attack if in progress at that time. Occasionally it will show old damage but not usually. Good luck!!!!!
   — Delores S.

October 17, 2003
Renee: I understand your fear of being denied surgery. But please be "up-front" with your doctor about your complete medical history. The more they know about you, the better your surgery and post-op treatment will be. If your heart trouble is a potential problem, they need to be informed about it. Please be safe and good luck to you.
   — Carlita

October 17, 2003
I have been up front. I told my surgeon about the chest pains I had back in March and he said he doubted it was anything to be concerned with. So we shall see what comes of it. Thanks for your concern!
   — Renee B.

October 17, 2003
I understand your concerns. I went in for my pre-op physical this morning, and my PCP decided that she wanted me to see the cardiologist. I'd been having some chest pain, which I suspect was anxiety over this whole process, but she wanted to be sure. She did the EKG, (it only took about 5 minutes), and said it looked OK. I guess my thought is that I'd rather they do a complete workup and make sure that I'm in the best shape possible before I have the WLS. Even if it means postponing for a few days, I'd rather know that we've done everything possible to make sure the surgery is a success and that I survive! I hope that things go well for you.
   — Shelly M.

October 17, 2003
Hi, I sure hope you have better luck then I had. I was scheduled for surgery this wed. the 22nd. I had my pre-op test taken on Fri. the 10. My EKG showed that at sometime I had a heart attack. I don't remember having one per-say, but I have had some chest pains in the past. Nothing major. My surgery has been canceled! I have to see a cardiologist and find out for sure what the problem is before my surgeon will even concider letting me have surgery. I sure hope that your EKG comes out fine. I wouldn't wish this let down on anyone. Good luck to you and God bless. (((HUGS)))
   — Cindy P.