Who should I consult if my heart seems fine? I'm struggling to cope
I am a woman weighing 230 pounds and standing 5 feet 6 inches tall. In December of 2023, I gave birth but subsequently experienced severe postpartum preeclampsia and hypertension, which persisted for five months, along with episodes of bradycardia. Following the delivery, I felt overwhelmed by weakness. Simple activities, like changing my daughter’s diaper or fixing her hair, leave me feeling shaky, exhausted, and short of breath. I often sweat profusely and feel a heaviness in my head, alongside an unsettling sense of discomfort. Playing with my child has become impossible. I've been worried that I might have heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). I consulted a cardiologist who noted slight wave changes on my EKG compared to the previous year. To further investigate, he ordered an echocardiogram and a stress test. According to his nurse, both tests returned normal results. I have a follow-up appointment with him tomorrow, and I’m uncertain whether I should advocate for additional examinations to definitively rule out HFpEF, as it is often overlooked in echocardiograms. Given the severity of my symptoms over the past two years, I find it challenging to engage in life fully.
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 11:50:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing some significant challenges after your pregnancy, and it's completely understandable to be worried about your health and how it affects your ability to care for your daughter. Your symptoms and medical history are important to discuss, and it's good that you've already consulted with a cardiologist.
Explanation
Persistent symptoms like weakness, breathlessness, and feeling overwhelmed can arise from several underlying issues, especially following postpartum complications like preeclampsia. Given your normal echocardiogram and stress test results, it seems your heart function is stable at this time. However, your ongoing discomfort and symptoms warrant a deeper exploration to ensure there are no underlying issues that could be affecting your quality of life.
Next Steps
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Discuss Your Concerns with Your Cardiologist:
- Clearly articulate your ongoing symptoms, including fatigue and breathlessness. Share your concerns about heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and stress that these symptoms are significantly affecting your daily life.
- Inquire about further diagnostic options, such as a cardiac MRI or additional blood tests, which can provide more information about cardiac function and help rule out any subtle heart issues.
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Consider a Holistic Approach:
- Along with your cardiologist, consult with your primary care physician about your mental health and overall wellbeing. Postpartum adjustments can be challenging, and addressing aspects like anxiety or postpartum depression can greatly influence your recovery and energy levels.
- Ask if referring to a specialist in women's health or a mental health professional might be beneficial, as they can offer more tailored advice and support.
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Prioritize Self-Care:
- While waiting for further evaluations, focus on manageable self-care strategies to help alleviate some of the exhaustion. This may include short, gentle activities that you can handle without overexerting yourself, and try to incorporate small breaks throughout the day to rest.
- Stay hydrated and consider a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, which can support overall health and energy levels.
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Track Your Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your daily symptoms, including when they occur, what activities you're doing, and how they make you feel. This information can be invaluable at your next appointment, helping your provider understand what you’re experiencing more comprehensively.
It’s important to feel supported and heard by your healthcare team. Remember, your health is a priority, especially as you care for your daughter.
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