I am a 24 year-old diagnosed with HCM two years ago. I suffered a cardiac arrest while playing intramural basketball during my senior year of college. I suffered anoxic brain damage and now have a pacemaker. I am now facing the decision whether to have a myectomy or not.
I am literally just leaving the Mayo clinic where I received feedback. Surgery is not fully necessary but, it may improve my symptoms. So, I am facing a difficult decision and I am hoping those who have gone through the surgery may provide me their insight.
I have always thought my "symptoms" were normal so I don't really know what normal is. I get out of breath if I climb stairs quickly. I have shortness or breath and a tight chest one-two blocks into a fast walk, when I attempt to jog, or hike. Recently my vision has gone white with certain exertion and, when I stand-up from sitting my vision frequently goes black. I have never passed out except for my arrest.
The doctor suggested that surgery may decrease symptoms when I reach my forties and may make pregnancy easier (if I decide to have kids). But, it is my decision!
I am hoping to hear: What other's have experienced with recovery? If people experience enduring chest pain or nerve damage where the chest is "opened"? Thoughts on improvement of symptoms post-surgery. How is scarring? Any insight on things I should consider in making this decision?! Thank you so much!!
I am literally just leaving the Mayo clinic where I received feedback. Surgery is not fully necessary but, it may improve my symptoms. So, I am facing a difficult decision and I am hoping those who have gone through the surgery may provide me their insight.
I have always thought my "symptoms" were normal so I don't really know what normal is. I get out of breath if I climb stairs quickly. I have shortness or breath and a tight chest one-two blocks into a fast walk, when I attempt to jog, or hike. Recently my vision has gone white with certain exertion and, when I stand-up from sitting my vision frequently goes black. I have never passed out except for my arrest.
The doctor suggested that surgery may decrease symptoms when I reach my forties and may make pregnancy easier (if I decide to have kids). But, it is my decision!

I am hoping to hear: What other's have experienced with recovery? If people experience enduring chest pain or nerve damage where the chest is "opened"? Thoughts on improvement of symptoms post-surgery. How is scarring? Any insight on things I should consider in making this decision?! Thank you so much!!
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