No More Chest Pains
Seeking proper medical attention in time can save your heart, and your life, if you are experiencing chest pains.
Chest Pains are an early warning sign
Taking Mr Cliff Teo as a case study, it all began in 2007 when he accompanied his late wife, to see a doctor at Mount Alvernia Hospital. While at the hospital, Cliff felt acute chest pains. At his wife’s insistence, Cliff headed over to the hospital’s 24 Hour Walk-in Clinic & Emergency Department and was advised to be admitted for observation.
Truth be told, it was not the first time Cliff had been struck with such pains. For some time, he had been experiencing recurring tightness around the chest area and felt significant discomfort whenever he exercised.
Whenever Cliff went jogging around the neighbourhood, his chest literally felt like it was going to explode, especially during the first five minutes of exercising.
Though the discomfort subsided as he eased into the run, Cliff instinctively knew that something was wrong, but he shrugged it off.
Fortunately for Cliff, the doctors were able to diagnose the problem in time.
Upon admission to hospital, an Interventional Cardiologist ordered a battery of tests, including a stress test, ECG and treadmill sessions. The results showed about 70 per cent blockages of three sub arteries and complete blockage of his capillaries.
First line of defence
No direct medical intervention was required immediately, but the Cardiologist prescribed a concoction of medications and advised Cliff to make immediate lifestyle changes to bring his weight down. It was a wake-up call for the man whose friends call him “Superman”.
No longer in denial about his condition, Cliff set his mind on improving his health, cutting down on seafood, fried foods and curries. After consulting with the doctor, Cliff continued his gym workouts but followed a moderated exercise plan.
The commitment to a managed diet and regular exercise soon paid off. Within six months, Cliff lost 15 kg and brought his weight down to 92kg. Meanwhile he continued to see his Cardiologist every three months for regular review sessions.
During one such regular review earlier this year, tests showed a progression in the narrowing of the arteries.
Surgical Options
This time, the Cardiologist advised Cliff to consider a coronary angioplasty – a procedure in which surgeons use a balloon to widen a blocked heart artery, then implant a small, stent to hold the artery open and improve blood flow. This was the first option. Cliff’s second option was heart bypass surgery.
Like any patient, Cliff had his share of questions and concerns. He asked his Cardiologist whether a less invasive procedure like angioplasty meant it was less effective than a more invasive operation. The doctors assured him that was not the case. He explained that it was prudent to go for the less invasive procedure first as that might solve the problem without the need for more major surgery that would involve more risk and a longer recovery period.
True to his Superman reputation, fearless Cliff opted against anaesthesia for his operation, choosing instead to remain conscious throughout the two-hour procedure.
‘Superman’ back on track
Four months after the procedure, Cliff no longer experienced chest pains and tightness. He could clock longer mileage on the exercise machines and return to his routine of evening jogs, swims and gym work three to four times a week. His weight at last check was 79kg.
Cliff must also continue to pay close attention to his diet, stay disciplined with regular exercise and take his medications as prescribed.
Having grown wiser from his own personal experience, Cliff now takes every opportunity to remind friends and loved ones to guard their health.
“Most people think ‘It won’t happen to me’ but health is something you can’t predict and sickness does not discriminate against anyone.”
Chest pains are a sign of underlying heart conditions. Interventional Cardiologist Dr Tan Kok Soon is an expert in chest pains. He is based at Tan Kok Soon Heart Specialist Clinic at Mount Alvernia Medical Centre.
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Chest pains are a sign of underlying heart conditions. Interventional Cardiologist Dr Tan Kok Soon is an expert in chest pains. He is based at Tan Kok Soon Heart Specialist Clinic at Mount Alvernia Medical Centre.
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