MrsAck

Hello all-

I was recently diagnosed with a leaky aortic valve. For the past few months I have been having dizzy spells that did not seem to be triggered by anything I could put my finger on. Then a few weeks ago I ended up in ER, because instead of the "normal" dizzy spells that seemed to clear up in just a minute or two, I could not get my head on straight. I also had some chest discomfort this time.

They found that I was having PVC's, my BP was 148/104, and recommended followup.

So now after a Holter monitor, an "echo", and a Stress Test, the verdict is...no substantial blockages, but a leaking aortic valve. I was put on a beta blocker, then a few days later, an ACE inhibitor (no longer on this as I was having reactions after the first dose). My BP has been regularly in the 114/74 range since, except when I have "spells".

Right now that is where it stands. I have done some research on the net, trying to be more informed about what it can mean to me and what the potential is, but I still don't know anything. I get the functional implications and options, but I have a hard time relating that to where I am in the process. I continue to have the dizzy spells, and chest discomfort, although not as often. Even today, I was sitting at my desk, sorting papers, and got dizzy. I checked my BP right away (I now have a cuff at my desk) and it was 131/92. Nearly an hour later, it was still cranked up at 142/99 at I have a somewhat sedentary job, but until this all started, was very active. Now I don't hardly have the energy to throw a toy for our dog.

Can someone help me out with what kinds of questions to ask? What are the things that I NEED to know? I have lots of questions, but am not sure they will get me the information I need to make educated decisions about my lifestyle and treatment options.

Thank you in advance for any info
MrsAck