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On Friday, December 22nd, Jeff brought me to Fairview Southdale Hospital ER, because I was feeling nauseous and having chest pain. The early diagnosis was potential heart attack. After further evaluation the cardiologist confirmed that I suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the hospital. On Saturday evening, I had an angiogram procedure to confirm and determine the root cause of heart attack.
It was diagnosed that I have SCAD: Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection. Unlike a more typical heart attack, SCAD is a rare condition that occurs when a tear forms in one or more blood vessels which can slow or block blood flow to the heart and cause a heart attack. SCAD is happening to a group of younger women who appear healthy, fit, and have no risk factors. It cannot be repaired but typically heals itself with proper medication and stress management.
On Wednesday, January 3rd I have an appointment with a cardiologist here, for an update on my progress. Soon I will be getting a CT Angiography to find out about FIbro Muscular Dysplasia (FMD), which is sometimes linked to SCAD.
I am waiting to find out about a referral to Mayo Clinic where current research is being done on SCAD.
SCAD information site:
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20170130/scad-heart-attacksThursday, January 4th:
Yesterday I had a hospital follow up visit with a cardiologist. The next step is tp have a CT scan of the head and neck and to the abdomen and pelvis. This is to look at the blood vessels to screen for a disease called Fibromuscular Dysplasia, a disease of the blood vessels that can be linked to coronary dissections.