The "report" is back

There is relief on my part to have completed my medical evaluation and follow-up for my recent chest pains. Since starting the calcium channel blocker several weeks ago, my blood pressure is now normal and my chest pains are gone. Since starting the Ca++ channel blocker, I have had a rest and exercise "Cardiolyte" nuclear imaging of my heart, lab tests for my cardio lipids, liver and kidney function, and an assessment of my risks for further heart disease. All of this was important to me as KK and I make plans for our travels this year. I wanted to have any interventions necessary to be done before the year gets too far along. So, yesterday, my visit to my cardiologist was momentus for me; ie, there was a lot of emotional energy riding on the outcomes. I did receive copies of the reports from the various tests, yet, I still had questions.

Results: exercise capacity better than the average man of my age; normal liver and kidney function tests; very low cholesterol (121), very very low LDL (bad cholesterol), very very high HDL (good cholesterol), very very low triglycerides (good). Overall risk for further heart problems low by the scales used. Nuclear image study, no areas of poor blood flow.

Impression: KK and I can go on our travels, take the hiking side trips we want, and keep planning on doing what we have been doing. Resolution of chest pain related to taking of new medication which works by dilating the tiny arterioles; ie, less resistance to the pumping action of the heart, hence, less pressure needed to move blood around.

Conclusion: Be self aware, mindful of the changes going on in our minds and body, addressing these changes in a timely manner, avoid preconcieved notions and sound bite popular trends, obtain objective information and data, embrace outcomes that are varifiable and measurable, don't make excuses or blame others for what one finds inconvienent or critical.

Postscript: KK and I are headed North of Soo Saint Marie into Canada for the Snow Train and the AGAWA valley this weekend.