DEAR DR. GOTT:
In May 2006 I had a stent implanted in my heart. Since that time I have had shortness of breath. I also occasionally have to stop and take one or several deep breaths which doing a variety of activities such as bending over, carrying light loads (up to about 10 pounds), going up and down stairs, and many more.

When I visited my heart specialist following my surgery and told him about the situation, he would only say it was anxiety. He continued to ignore my list of incidences and maintained it was anxiety. I have had anxiety before on various occasions such as when my car was totaled but I never had to stop and take deep breaths. I explained that this only began after my stent surgery and that I thought it was something other than anxiety.

Should I ask for a second opinion or is this normal after receiving a stent? Do I just have to live with it?

I have had a “chemical” thallium chloride stress test. To quote from my family doctor’s report it said “No definite evidence for ischemia on today’s examination”. I hope this helps you to help me.

DEAR READER:
Shortness of breath can be a sign of ineffective contractions of the heart muscle, known as congestive heart failure. It can also reflect anemia and lung problems such as blood clots, emphysema and other disorders. Although your heart workup was normal, I believe that you need further testing and agree that a second opinion is in order. Ask your family doctor to refer you to an internal medicine specialist.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Coronary Artery Disease”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.