Exactly three months since my angioplasty and after a huge snowstorm here in the Northeast...I am preparing for a likely ablation in the next month to six months, depending on how I respond to an increase in my Toprol XL...I mention the snowstorm because for the first time in over forty years I did not shovel snow...and probably never will again! it has been a good recovery from the angio...my head is a lot clearer and I have much more energy...no more taking three naps to get me through the day...I had been sleeping in my office...partly the arterial blockage and partly the high dose of beta blockers. Well, I am still dealing with a weight gain and some water retention, pretty constant chest and arm discomfort...sometimes getting uncomfortble and occasional headaches again. I took a lot of tests last month including a 24 hour halter, 7 day event monitor and a barium stress test. No arrythmia and Dr. Fifer is comfortable with my candidacy for the ablation. I hope to get through the first few months of the year if the beta blocker helps to make me feel better before moving ahead. My problem with the beta blocker is that it contributes to my sleepiness and lack of ability to think and concentrate and I am not, at 51, ready to stop working. I need my brain!
Also dealing with episodes of sudden lack of consciousness while sitting or driving which is probably also related. I did discover a great device for about $10 that you wear while driving, behind the left ear. If it detects that you have nodded off it sounds an alarm to wake you up. I am much more alert when i wear it and more confident now that I will not fall asleep and get into an accident.
Good luck, everyone. I will stay in touch.
Also dealing with episodes of sudden lack of consciousness while sitting or driving which is probably also related. I did discover a great device for about $10 that you wear while driving, behind the left ear. If it detects that you have nodded off it sounds an alarm to wake you up. I am much more alert when i wear it and more confident now that I will not fall asleep and get into an accident.
Good luck, everyone. I will stay in touch.

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