Cardiomyopathy Diagnosed before Chemo

JS0404

Hi,


Today I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. I was supposed to start chemo in two days, but that’s being put on hold until I meet with the cardiologist. Now I’m not sure what to expect. Has anyone dealt with a heart condition prior to starting chemo?

Rosanne7

Dear JS0404 ,

Sorry to hear about cardiomyopathy diagnosis. Were you able to consult w/ cardiologist? How are you feeling these days?

I was diagnosed w/ cardiomyopathy 12 years ago (January 2007) -- then dx. w/ early stage BC/DCIS May 2007.

Since then, I've experienced two rounds of breast cancer recurrences --

My only advice is -- Find heart meds that work for you (I started an ACE inhibitor 12 years ago & it has helped!

Also, a low salt diet can help w/ fluid retention; & foods like leafy greens, cranberry juice, asparagus, oatmeal & watermelon can act as nature's diuretics. (Doctor may also prescribe diuretic pills; these do work, but can drain electrolytes; so be sure to stock bananas/orange juice, etc. to replace potassium removed by diuretic.*)

In any case, please feel free to ask questions here on forum,

Grace & peace,

Roseanne7