Well, I went to a new cardiologist about a week ago and finally got a diagnosis. I do have a slight case of peripartum cardiomyopathy. It is not causing the symptoms that I went to the dr. for to begin with. In fact, it's not something that has gotten bad enough to cause any symptoms at all. My EF was 55% on this echo (okay, but I would like higher) and my heart is only a tad bit enlarged. The dr. says that since I'm 6 months postpartum and my echo is staying that high, it isn't likely to cause problems,as long as there are no more pregnancies. That's fine with me, I was finished anyway. I have three kids which is exactly how many I wanted.They did put me on an ace inhibitor, but that was mainly to treat my high blood pressure left over from the pregnancy/ pre-eclampsia. I must say that my chest pressure is now gone after being put on the GERD medication, and all my palpitations, ect have disappeared after I calmed down and went on anxiety medication. I feel much better now. I will have to be monitered to make sure this cardiomyopathy doesn't act up, but I'm glad that the big scare is gone. I thought for sure that I was having a heart attack at 29! It's good to have my life back to normal. I have a very good cardiologist that I can trust to watch over me!

Hi Kelly,
I am very pleased that you have your diagnosis.You certainly sound so relieved. Cardiomyopathy of any type (I have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy) has a very variable course,and you need not concern yourself too much, unless you get symptoms of a fast heart rate, or breathlessness. I am not medically qualified, but if you avoid pregnancy, as advised, and do not attempt running marathons,you should be OK. For future insurance, quit smoking (if you do), go on a good cardiovascular type diet, and exercise regularly, but not too intensely). Also, of course keep your weight "normal", and have your BP monitored regularly. Having a doctor you feel good about is also very important.You may be asked back for an echogram or two over the next year or two. This is nothing to worry about - it is a usual follow-up procedure. All the best.
Excelsior

I am so glad you are feeling better!!!

You say they want your EF higher...did they say how much?? I ask because mine is only 59.

Glad to hear you are feeling better.I think once we know what is going on and a explaation of things we lose the anxiety and that heps a lot.

I do not know what a normal ef is suppose to be but have read <50 and also read <55, I know they do not want it too high either.

Linda

I think that a "normal" range of EF depends on what dr. you talk to, but it's usually starting at 50 or 55%. My dr. says 55-75%. Mine is still within the normal range (thank goodness), but at 29 years old, they said that they would expect it to be better. I go for another echo on Nov. 1. I've had 3 since June. All at least 50%, with the last at 55%. After this next echo, they won't do another one for 11 months. I do also have a very slight enlargment. As long as it stays like it is, I shouldn't have any trouble. The dr. can't guarantee, but he just said it's "not likely" to get worse this long after childbirth. It's remained this high without any meds for this long, hopefully he's right!

I do not know what a normal ef is suppose to be but have read <50 and also read <55, I know they do not want it too high either.

Almost always if EF goes above 75% it indicates the system is over compensating, and it can/will quickly fall into the dangerously low level.