Sudden Symptoms? When Unexplained Health Issues Lead to Surgery
- Karen Berry, a mother of two, felt increasingly tired and breathless in her mid-40s.
- Expecting to hear she needed to boost her stamina, Karen was surprised when her doctor ordered tests.
- Karen noted, "I assumed my breathlessness and fatigue were just part of aging at 46." She had a heart murmur during pregnancy but had no strong family history...
Karen Berry’s Heart Journey
Karen Berry, a mother of two, felt increasingly tired and breathless in her mid-40s. Initially, she thought she just needed to get fitter. However, her exhaustion led her to fall asleep often during the day, prompting concern from those around her. After she fainted in 2022, she finally visited her doctor.
Expecting to hear she needed to boost her stamina, Karen was surprised when her doctor ordered tests. These tests revealed that she required open heart surgery due to a damaged heart valve and calcium buildup.
Karen noted, “I assumed my breathlessness and fatigue were just part of aging at 46.” She had a heart murmur during pregnancy but had no strong family history of heart problems. Fortunately, a cancellation allowed her to have an echo-cardiogram that same day, which led to her immediate surgery.
Her husband, Alan, was abroad but returned home quickly after being informed of her condition. Karen stayed busy before her operation, preparing everything at home and work. “I just wanted to make sure everything was sorted,” she said. After two weeks in the hospital, she finally underwent surgery.
The operation was successful, and after a five-month recovery, she felt grateful for her life. Her family, including her sons, supported her during recovery, and she attended cardiac rehab for further guidance.
Karen learned the importance of heart health awareness. She now enjoys life by staying active, eating well, and spending quality time with family and friends. “I was very lucky,” she reflects. “If I hadn’t fainted, I might have ignored the symptoms.”
Dr. Angie Brown from the Irish Heart Foundation emphasized the need for women to be aware of their heart health. One in four women will die from heart disease or stroke. Dr. Brown provided key tips for heart protection:
- Get regular health checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
- Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
- Manage stress to avoid unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Dr. Brown encourages everyone to prioritize heart health. If something feels off, getting checked is essential. The Irish Heart Foundation offers support through their Nurse Support Line at 01 6685001 and can be accessed online at irishheart.ie.